The past seven months have been a blur of Zoom calls, virtual classes, countless attempted sourdoughs, and certainly a lot of squabbling for the best spot on the couch. So, if you have a backyard or even a sliver of a patio during quarantine, consider yourself very lucky. Here, the editors at Sunset magazine have found seven ways to transform your backyard space into the perfect spot for working, hanging, and entertaining (even if it’s just for you)!
1. Create a Zen Home Office-Meets-Entertaining Space
By now, the novelty of working from home has certainly diminished. For many of us, our “office” is a cramped kitchen table or, sometimes, bed. If you have an outdoor space, consider transforming it with an outdoor table and cabana set-up. Not only will you get a chance to breathe in some fresh air, but you’ll create an inviting space to enjoy after the workday is done.
2. Add some Mood Lighting
Shift your space from day to night with a bit of light. It seems simple enough, but adding some string lights or a unique colored light setup adds just the right touch of ambiance to your outdoor space.
3. Start an Herb Garden
If you don’t have the space (or patience) for a full-on garden bed, opt for small pots filled with your favorite herbs and perhaps put them on display near your grilling station (if you have one). If you’re short on space (or, again, patience) start with the top three herbs you use and love and build from there.
4. Invest in a Cowboy Pool
These pop-up “tank” pools are a fun and inexpensive way to cool down during the hot summer months. If you’re planning on leaving the tank full all summer long, add chlorine tablets or invest in a small pump and aerator to keep the water clean. Another tip: Get a cover to keep pesky mosquitoes at bay. It’s worth it!
5. Go for Comfy Seating
Whether you’re using your outdoor area to take back-to-back Zoom calls or kick back with a glass of wine after a long week, the right seating can make or break your experience. For multi-use, opt for the largest table you can easily fit into your space––it will serve your work-to-evening needs. If you have room, introduce a pair of cozy chairs for when you’re in full relaxation mode.
6. Add some Bright Flowers and Plants
Simply planting a colorful plant or displaying a few planters can make your backyard or patio space infinitely more enjoyable. Opt for easy care and drought-tolerant plants like bougainvillea, agave, or succulents.
7. A Dreamy Outdoor Sauna
If you have it in your budget (to the tune of $4,000 to $5,000) there isn’t a more luxurious backyard addition than an infrared sauna. Sweat out toxins, loosen tight muscles, and hopefully forget about 2020 (wouldn’t that be nice?) for a few minutes.
—
Photo Credit: Hannamariah / Shutterstock.com