Making the most of your yard (even if it’s small) will give you extra space this summer. When the weather is nice, having a beautiful outdoor spot is like adding an extra room to your house. The past few years have made us feel a little cooped up in our homes! Creating new areas to enjoy helps bring some breathing room. The trick is to use the most of your space, maximizing every inch.

No matter your yard size, you can create an enticing outdoor living space. Before starting your project, consider how you want to use the area. What do you enjoy most when you are outside? Do you love to garden or curl up with a good book? Does your family love to sit around a fire making smores or breaking into a game of badminton or cornhole? If you create the space to fit your family’s needs, you’ll end up spending much more time outside enjoying your yard.

Questions to Ask Before Creating an Outdoor Living Space

• How will your family use the space?
• Is privacy a priority for you?
• How big of a commitment do you want? (Caring for grass and gardens can be time-consuming)
• What is your budget?
• Will you DIY or bring in a landscaper?
• Do you need any permits before you begin your project?

How to Make the Most of Your Yard

1. Create defined spaces

While it may feel counterintuitive, creating defined spaces can actually make your yard feel larger. Having a lot of open space that no one uses is a waste. If you create multiple areas, such as one for sitting, a BBQ area, a fire table area, etc., you’ll make the most of the space you have.

2. Look up

If you have a smaller yard, consider ways to use vertical space (keeping city codes in mind). Adding planter boxes to your fence or using tall multi-platform planters gives you extra room for growing flowers or vegetables. Adding an arch or trellis with climbing vines will bring the eye up and add privacy.

3. Use containers

Container gardening is a great way to add greenery and flowers to your yard without the commitment of a large garden. They are versatile because you can move them around depending on what you are using your yard for.

4. Don’t forget the view

Go outside and look around – how is the view from your yard? Do you want to pull focus to a beautiful view like the lake or park behind your home? Or do you need to cover a not-so-pleasant view like the neighbour’s fence or brick wall?

5. Think about privacy

Are you looking for a private space or for the sun to shine in so you can admire the view? Privacy fences, trees, trellises, or umbrellas can all be used to add privacy to your yard. Keep in mind that they will also block out light, so consider how much sun you want the area to get when choosing their placement.  

6. Create a hidden nook

Do you have a side yard or an area of the backyard that’s tucked away and ignored?Why not transform it into a little reading nook or play area for the kids? You’ll use the extra space and define a little private area away from the action.

7. Add lighting

Be sure to light up your yard so you enjoy those long summer nights. Lighting up your yard will add ambiance, make it appear larger, and keep everyone safe from tripping in the dark. Remember areas like the stairs or darker corners.

8. Add warmth

Spring and fall evenings can get chilly. Consider a fire table, fire pit, or portable propane heater to keep you and your guests warm on those cooler nights. Check the by-laws in your area to see what is allowed and whether you need a fire permit for your yard.

9. Bring in greenery

Greenery and flowers will soften your space and add a natural touch. If you don’t have room for a garden, even a few hanging baskets, planters or a trellis with climbing vines will add softness and colour.

10. Keep an eye on the sun

Before designing your space, look at how the sun hits your yard throughout the day. It can be great for gardens or heating a pool, but you may want to put your seating and dining spots in a shadier place to escape the hot afternoon sun.

11. Create a storage space

There are always things that need to be tucked away in a yard! Whether it’s a spot for toys, cushions, or gardening supplies, you’ll want some storage in your yard. Look for ottomans or patio furniture with storage underneath or tuck away a little deck box in your side yard.

12. Build double-duty spaces

Creating spaces that can be used for multiple things will help you maximize your space. Look for items that can pull double duty. A deck box with seating on top, a fire pit with a tabletop, or a built-in cooler that is also a seat, are great options in smaller spaces.

Why not make the most of your yard this summer? Creating an outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy will expand your living area and add value to your home. A beautiful functioning yard that can be used for years to come is often high on a home buyer’s wishlist.