Get Out There! 7 Tips for Making the Most of Your Outdoor Spaces This Spring

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With wintry weather still howling in some parts of the country, it can be tough to visualize what your yard will look like when it isn’t buried under snow in a few weeks.

But despite the chill in the air, spring and summer really are just around the corner.

To help you prepare for another season of outdoor gatherings and all-day relaxation, we’re here with some ideas for easy backyard upgrades. Here are seven expert tips for maximizing your outdoor space, so you can start enjoying it when spring finally makes her debut.

1. Spruce up the flower beds

Spring is all about new life, so what better way to transition your outdoor space this season than with fresh, green growth?

“Plant colorful flowers like petunias or pansies to create a beautiful and vibrant display,” says Aaron Jerez, founder of Home Bar Select. “You might also consider adding flowers that attract bees and butterflies—or creating a vegetable garden with raised beds for homegrown produce.”

If you need a bit of help, this ready-to-go raised bed will make your garden dreams a reality in no time.

2. Set up a designated cooking area

You’ll want an outdoor food-prep area if you plan to entertain from your backyard this spring and summer. Whether that’s a full-sized kitchen, standalone grill, or even just a small fire pit, Kevin Lenhart, design director of Yardzen, has a few helpful tips to keep in mind.

“The chef or grillmaster shouldn’t feel isolated from the rest of the party, if you’re entertaining,” says Lenhart. “To avoid this, consider adding bar seating along a cooking counter or an L-shaped outdoor kitchen, with bar seating that keeps the conversation near the chef.”

Another pro tip: Keep your outdoor kitchen close to the house to avoid running utility lines long distances (or trekking the length of your yard with piles of dirty dishes).

3. Expand your deck

Looking to create more functionality in your outdoor space? Expanding your deck might be just the ticket.

“This is a great way to create extra space for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the outdoors,” says Kamil Kowalski, president of LimakWay Remodeling.

But a deck doesn’t just have to be a big slab jutting off your house. Kowalski also recommends building something called a floating deck, which rests on the ground.

“Floating decks offer a contemporary look and are easier to maintain than traditional decks,” he says. “Plus, they can often be built in a weekend with the right tools and materials.”

4. Just add light

Another easy way to make your yard more welcoming this season is to add some twinkle to nighttime gatherings.

“Outdoor lighting can add warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space,” says Kowalski. “String lights, candle lanterns, and tiki torches are all great options for creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.”

Just verify that whatever lights you use are fire safe and rated for outdoor weather (please see: unexpected rain showers).

5. Build some shade

You’ll also want a good shade solution—especially if you live in a hot climate, where the midday sun is truly imposing.

“Pergolas and shade sails are a great way to provide overhead protection from the elements and define a space,” says Lenhart. “To determine the size of the umbrella canopy or shade sail, consider the sun pattern in your yard.”

And you don’t necessarily need to shade your whole space. Instead, choose one or two areas where you’d like more shade, Lenhart recommends. Then, select a smaller sail or umbrella that can be angled against the sun.

6. Diversify your seating

One of the easiest, most inexpensive things you can do to create a more dynamic backyard is to shake up your seating options. You’ll want to offer an array of perches where guests can relax and chat. Assemble a mix of traditional dining chairs, benches, and possibly even a few hammocks.

“While it used to be typical to have maybe one area designated for entertaining, with a patio table and chairs, now homeowners want to create multiple gathering areas for different purposes,” says Lenhart.

Think of a casual lounging area with plush outdoor furniture or a quiet meditation corner with a swing or hammock.

7. Make it extra comfy

The number of hours you clock in your outdoor haven this year will ultimately depend on how inviting it is. So it might be worth adding a few cozy extras to crank up the space’s leisure quotient.

“The easiest way to spruce up a lounge area is by updating or adding decor like pillows, outdoor rugs, and throw blankets,” says Lenhart. “They create a more comfortable environment and immediately make a space more inviting.”

Be sure to choose items rated for outdoor use, and consider getting a chest to store and protect them while not in use.

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