The Great Outdoors, Ideas for Your Own Patio Oasis

These days, our yards and patios are being treated like an extension of our interior living space. If you ever watch home renovation shows on HGTV, DIY Network, or any other similar channels, you may have been left with a case of “yard envy.” What was once a daunting task of weeding and edging can now become your next conquest. The elbow grease is minimal, and the ROI is considerable. I am not just talking about the added value it will give your home in its entirety, but more so the mental ROI you will earn from having a peaceful space to retreat in nature. We are going to toss out some ideas for transforming your outdoor space to your own private Zen Garden, on a budget of course! 

Adding a pergola is a great way to better define the outdoor patio area and provide an added comfort zone for friends and family to relax. It is an inexpensive way to enhance the patio area while adding some major luxe factor. You can even purchase a free-standing style for under $500 if you’d rather not mess with construction costs. Or, if you want to really make it resist the elements, many people choose to install a retractable awning on the pergola rafters.   Paired with a grill area, and an outdoor dining furniture set, it becomes your open-air kitchen for entertaining guests. String up some inexpensive fairy lights or lanterns. The solar-powered type is the way to go for low maintenance and energy efficiency. Finish the space with a firepit for post dinner drinks and your new favorite dining spot is born.

Another great focal point is adding a water feature. Now this doesn’t have to look like the water light show at the Bellagio, but just some tastefully stacked flowerpots and your garden hose can do the trick. The nice part is they can also help water existing plants, produce, herbs and flowers for stress free irrigation. If you want to kick it up a notch, you can make a small pond where there is already existing storm water run-off and channel the flow with decorative stones. Another inexpensive idea is using a wheelbarrow or water jugs to add visual interest with items you already own. A statement statue and some solar lighting to further enhance this soothing addition is an easy way to make it an eye-catching focal point of your outdoor space. 

If you already have a shed, why not kick it up a notch like Cheryl did in the infamous State Farm commercial. Sheds aren’t just for lawnmowers anymore. Out with the “man cave” and in with the multipurpose shed designed as an extra functional space. Reading, painting, crafting and everything in between can all be done in your shabby chic shed with a little TLC. Depending on budget, most people don’t need full water and electric run to the shed. The cheaper and safer approach is bringing in your own battery powered lanterns to keep the rustic feel. 

Throw in a few small pieces of furniture and some fresh greenery to bring the indoor feeling to the outdoors. Depending on your climate, you may want to add insulation so you can enjoy your new “peace pod” for multiple seasons. A fresh coat of paint, a couple of windows, shutters and some window boxes will give you the “She Shed” you’ve always wanted. 

To really take your outdoor space to the next level, have a family night at the “drive-in” with a portable projection screen designed for outdoor use. Many models come with a mini projector or are compatible with one you may already own for your home theatre. Gather round the fire pit, toast some marshmallows, and enjoy your favorite flicks under the starlit sky. Just don’t forget the popcorn!

Being stuck inside for the better part of a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic took its toll on all of us last year. The trend in outdoor living spaces is growing, and many are taking the DIY approach to mirroring indoor spaces and customizing them for outdoor use. Sites like Pinterest are chock full of ideas that perhaps you never even considered. Whether you are on a tight budget or going for the gusto, from simple trellises to elaborate “Granny pods,” there is an outdoor oasis for everyone!