Backyard Reset: Small Space, Big Style
Our beautiful, snug backyard. Just because it’s small doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy it!
A Long Awaited Refresh
After living in our home for over 12 years and saving our pennies, our backyard is finally the cozy space we’ve always wanted. Our backyard may be the size of a postage stamp, but that doesn’t mean we couldn’t make it stylish.
I loved our backyard before but the wicker furniture, much like Merilee’s, got old and cracked. It also was rather annoying to haul all of the huge cushions in and out of the deck box just to sit outside.
With our new furniture we got last year, we no longer have to haul out massive cushions. But we had nothing to really make it an inviting space. This year I finally tackled the task of making it somewhere we all want to be!
Making it Feel Like Home
The Poly Furniture rocking benches, swivel chair and bistro table set are extremely low maintenance, durable and incredibly easy to clean! The rust and green pillow covers are not outdoor covers, however, we store them in our deck box when not in use and they are easily washable. But just in case, the pillow inserts are outdoor certified. The black and white outdoor pillow covers give the perfect amount of pattern to bring interest to the seating area. The plaid blankets on the rocking benches and the navy bubble blanket on the swivel chair really complete the ultimate comfort feel.
The best part of our new backyard is that we can bring the pillows and blankets out for a long relaxing evening, or we can leave the pillows stored away for a quick, less formal sit. Its the best of both worlds!
Backyard in Bloom
What is an outdoor space without plants and fun pots to put them in?
(Quick tip: If you want pots with personality that are not very expensive, Walmart is the place to go! I have searched high and low for pots and they take the cake with fun, affordable options! The pots I purchased from them are sadly no longer available, but I will link the closest item I could find. But, trust me, go to Walmart and see their selection!)
The pots along our fence are my favorite way to bring a lot of color and personality with all kinds of different flowers. The large green pot and plant stand are a perfect distraction from the window well grate. The terracotta pots help add extra warmth to the space. The green checkered pot gives the perfect touch of character. Finally, the black pot on the bistro table helps to break up all of the white.
For plants and flowers, I went for things that best keep pests away. I used red petunias, French Lavender, marigolds, purple and white alyssum, green onion and peppermint.
Glow Up
And lastly, what would a backyard space be without the soft glow of outdoor lighting? The classic string lights hung along the fence line is perfect for lighting the area when it is dark outside. I placed a few lanterns with fairy lights to add a bit of whimsy. And then my personal favorite, the solar outdoor lights on the deck steps that cast the most beautiful shadows. We also have a small fire table to light up and warm the area for those chilly nights, or lets be honest, for the s’mores!
Lighting is like the cherry on top to any space and I definitely feel like this lighting earned that cherry!
Small Space, Big Comfort
Finally our backyard is what we have wanted after all these years. We have a welcoming space where we can enjoy dinners, relax with beautiful views, watch the sunrise and have the best summer nights with family and friends.
