Create a calming outdoor escape with these easy design ideas.

Try these ideas to get the most serene, sophisticated backyard oasis your budget allows.

First, decide on a color scheme, and then gather outdoor pillows in different sizes and patterns.

beautiful backyard

Credit: Ed Gohlich

Opt foreasy-to-clean outdoor cushionsand fabrics that dry quickly and resist UV rays.

To add a larger dose of colors and patterns, anchor your seating area with a stylishoutdoor rug.

A hammock provides a snug spot for an afternoon nap when strung up between two trees or deck posts.

brick patio various colored throw pillows

Credit: Edmund Barr

A chaise longue is ideal for sunbathing or lounging with a book.

Add plenty of outdoor pillows or cushions to boost comfort even more.

Add Lushness with Plants

Surround your outdoor space with lush greenery.

hammock surrounded by plants

Credit: Jay Wilde

Plantcontainer gardenswith eye-catching varieties and arrange them near the seating area to provide living decor.

Ashallow planter filled with succulentscan serve as a beautiful centerpiece for an outdoor table.

Plants with tall stems and full leaves double as privacy screens with strategic placement.

outdoor sofa on deck

Credit: David Patterson

Continue the natural look with serving platters made from jute or rattan materials.

Plan Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor oasis ideas for after sunset must includebackyard lighting.

Youll need good task lighting over the grill and work areas for outdoor kitchens.

Outdoor structure string lights

Credit: Ann VanderWiel Wilde

Candlelight, wall-mounted downlights, or dimmable electric lamps work well in dining and conversation areas.

Steps and walkways should also be illuminated for safety.

Combine a mix of lighting sources to make your backyard getaway amagical placeafter dark.

backyard deck orange umbrellas

Credit: Bob Stefko

Create Shady Spots

Even sun-worshippers will welcome a little shade in the heat of summer.

Shade options include patio umbrellas, mature trees, retractable awnings, or arbors and pergolas planted with vines.

Choose the option that best suits your space and budget.

picture-perfect backyard patio

Credit: Michael Partenio

Multiple outdoor furniture arrangements carve out spaces for dining and relaxing on this patio.

you’re able to make your patio a comfortable seasonal room with some planning.

Patios are usuallysurfaced with brick or stone.

outdoor kitchen

Credit: Jamie Hadley

If you opt for concrete, consider adding texture and color to imitate stone for a more natural look.

Use planting beds, container gardens, and weatherproof furniture to decorate the outdoor space.

Soften the look of an outdoor dining set with rattan planters or dining accessories.

white pergola

Credit: James Yochum

You dont need a fancy grill for your outdoor kitchen.

Place beverage dispensers on a stand to make it easier for guests to serve themselves.

Add a refrigerator to keep food fresh on hot days and a sink to make cleanup easy.

red and black patio furniture

Credit: Marty Baldwin

Fences and garden walls ensure privacy for patios and decks.

Hanging outdoor curtains is another easy, inexpensive way to boost privacy.

Synthetic, weatherproof patio furniture and fabrics are also available, offering similar styles and comfort as interior furnishings.

white and brown shingled gazebo

Credit: Bob Stefko

Opt for acrylic drinkware that wont break if dropped.

Even weatherproof floor lamps and table lamps combine stylish lighting with durability.

Define Spaces with Outdoor Structures

A gazebo adds another level of luxury to your backyard oasis.

pergola covered raised hot tub

Credit: Kritsada Panichgul

Pergolas, trellises, andarbors can also be usedto define activity zones in your outdoor paradise.

Youll also need additional room for sitting and walking around the tub.

Bring in Artistic Elements

Fountains, statues, and art enhance the beauty of your backyard.

outdoor fireplace

Credit: Ed Gohlich

These ornamental touches create a welcoming, personalized space for outdoor living.

On average, a typical cost may be between $4,000 and $12,000.

However, it may approach $20,000 if you want to install anoutdoor home spa or jacuzzior a greenhouse.

flower garden water fountain

Credit: Peter Krumhardt

For specific costs and time frames,talk to your contractor for an estimate.

Keep in mind, though, that you need something relatively simple to maintain over time.

Focus onwell-manicured landscaping designsand high-quality, lasting features that will surely become a selling point.