Ready to give your backyard a makeover but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This checklist will guide you through everything you need to consider to transform your outdoor space into an oasis that you simply won’t want to leave.
Whether you want to build a deck and patio combo, install a pool, create a garden, or all of the above, we’ll walk you through the steps to make your backyard renovation dreams a reality. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be bursting with inspiration and ready to get out there and start creating your ideal outdoor hangout spot. Best of all, we’ve created a print-out sheet so you can keep track of your backyard renovation every step of the way.
So grab a cup of tea, pick a renovation project to focus on, and let’s get planning. Your dream backyard awaits!
Planning Your Backyard Renovation
The first step is figuring out how you want to use your backyard space. Do you want an entertaining area, a garden, a play space for kids or all of the above? Determine your priorities so you can plan accordingly. This part just needs to be a quick brainstorm to set expectations on what is a must-have and what can be put on the back burner. Is it more important to have a fully-furnished patio or would you rather have the patio and the pool or garden built and leave the furnishing step for later.
Make a list of must-have and nice-to-have elements. Things like a patio, walkway, lawn, flowers or a playset. Decide on a style and budget. Do you prefer a natural, minimalist or lavish look? Know how much you can spend to achieve it.
Visit home improvement stores for ideas and inspiration. Look at options for patios, decks, fencing, plants and play equipment. Take photos of things you like.
With a solid plan in place, you’ll be ready to start making your dream backyard a reality. But take it one step at a time – there’s no need to finish it all at once. Start with the priorities on your list and go from there. Your backyard oasis will come together!
Finding Your Budget
Figuring out your budget is key to any renovation. Think about how much you can afford to spend to transform your yard into an oasis.
Set a budget range. Decide on the minimum and maximum you’re willing to spend for the entire project. Be realistic based on the scope of work.
Prioritise must-haves.
Start by making a list of non-negotiables, like a patio or deck, and budget for those first. Focus funds on structural elements before decor. You can get a general idea of costs online, but at this stage, don’t search for any quotes until you read the next point.
Measuring Your Available Space
The first physical step to any backyard renovation is determining how much space you have to work with. Grab a tape measure and head outside to take some measurements of your yard. You may have the exact measurements already in your home’s floor plans, but oftentimes you’ll need to measure the yard space independently.
Think about how you want to use the space – do you want a patio, garden, play area for kids or space for entertaining? Measure the length and width of your yard in metres to get the total square footage.
Also measure any existing structures like sheds, garages or fences. Note where things like utility meters, HVAC units and drainage pipes are located. You want to be sure not to interfere with any of these in your plans. Measure pathways, gates or access points to your yard as well. All of these factors will determine how much usable space you actually have for your renovation and what kinds of amenities or features you can include.
Once you have the measurements and existing elements mapped out, you can start coming up with a scale diagram or blueprint for your backyard renovation. Having the measurements and a visual plan of your yard will make it much easier to budget costs, choose furniture and decor, and execute the work needed to transform your outdoor space. Measuring accurately and planning properly is half the battle, so don’t skip this crucial first step.
Determine What Key Features You Want (Patios, Gardens, Pool, etc.)
When planning your backyard renovation, think about what elements are most important to you. Do you want an outdoor oasis for entertaining with a patio, pergola, and fire pit? Are you an avid gardener dreaming of vegetable beds and flower gardens? Maybe a pool is at the top of your list for hot summer days.
Prioritising 1-3 must-have features will help focus your budget and design plans. Some popular options include:
- Patios – Great for dining, lounging and hosting. Plenty of roof options available and you need to consider how you’re going to pave the area.
- Decks – Elevated wooden platforms ideal for views. Requires more maintenance but provide a natural look.
- Gardens – Flowers, trees, shrubs and vegetable beds to suit your green thumb.
- Pools – In-ground or above for swimming, soaking and playing.
- Lighting – Add ambiance and extend your outdoor time into the evening.
Once you determine your ideal amenities, create a budget and find inspiration from photos of similar spaces. Your dream yard is within reach if you start with a solid plan focused on must-haves. The rest can be added over time!
Design Your Renovation (Drawings or Graphics)
Now for the fun part—dreaming up your ideal backyard renovation! Grab some graph paper and start sketching out potential designs. Consider:
-The activities you want to include like a patio, play area for kids, garden, etc. Think about how much space each element needs.
-Traffic flow and how people will move through the space. Place frequently used areas close together.
-Views and focal points. Position patios, decks and sitting areas to enjoy attractive views.
-Sun exposure and shade. Note the path of the sun to determine the best spots for sunbathing or play areas for kids.
-Privacy. Use landscaping, fencing or garden structures to create more intimate spaces.
Don’t worry about being an expert artist. Simple bubble diagrams or rough sketches are fine. If you’re happy with your sketch, you can provide it to the professionals you bring o board to bring your dream yard to life. If you’re not thrilled with it, consider bringing in a professional designer who can use your ideas for inspiration and turn it into something magnificent.
Getting your ideas down on paper is a helpful step towards creating your dream backyard. You’ll gain clarity on how all the pieces will come together and a vision to work towards as your renovation progresses. With a well-thought-out design in hand, you’ll feel motivated to dive into the more complex parts of planning and be prepared for any challenges that arise. Most importantly, you’ll end up with a functional and inviting space tailored to you and your family’s needs.
Source and Compare Quotes
Once you have a general plan in place for your backyard renovation, it’s time to get estimates from contractors to understand potential costs. Comparing multiple quotes will help ensure you get the best value.
Ask for Recommendations
Start by asking family, friends and neighbours for recommendations of landscapers or contractors they’ve used for similar projects. Check online reviews as well to find highly rated options in your area. Create a shortlist of three to five candidates to contact.
Provide Details
When reaching out to contractors, give a clear overview of your planned renovation including specifics around hardscaping, planting, lighting, irrigation, and any structures. The more details you can provide upfront, the more accurate the initial quotes will be. Be available to meet on-site to review the space and discuss options.
Ask Questions
If anything in a quote is unclear or concerns you, contact the contractor to ask follow-up questions. It’s best to resolve any uncertainties before making a final decision. Once you select a contractor, get a detailed contract in place to ensure there are no surprises as the work gets underway. With proper planning and communication, your backyard renovation should go smoothly from start to finish.
Reevaluate Budgets
Unfortunately, sometimes quotes don’t come through in our expected price ranges. If you’ve gone out and gotten a quote from a patio builder, a landscaping contractor and a pool builder and the three projects have just blown your budget, it may be wise to take a step back and reconsider which adds the most value to you at that moment. There’s no one-size-fits-all process here, but you can determine what’s best for you by looking at your current situation, budget and what you want to have done first. External factors may influence your decision here, for example, if the pool project is set to be completed in winter, it’s unlikely that you will be able to use it for another 6 months, so in that case, landscaping and the patio may be more practical.
Mark Your Calendar
Big backyard renovations can be full-on. You’ll have tradies going in and out, project times to keep in mind and unless you’ve hired a project manager, a lot of the organisation work will fall on you.
Start by developing a comprehensive plan that outlines specific tasks, assigning each to the relevant contractor based on their expertise. Clearly define milestones and deadlines, ensuring that all parties are aware of their responsibilities. Establishing open lines of communication is crucial. Make sure to regularly touch base with contractors to see how things are coming along.
Juggling dates becomes an art—consider dependencies between tasks and contractors, allowing for a smooth flow of work. Regularly reassess the schedule to adapt to unforeseen circumstances and ensure that the project stays on track. It’s all about creating a harmonious collaboration, where each contractor plays a unique role, contributing to the transformation of your large backyard into a stunning, cohesive space.
Shop for Furniture
Once you have the layout planned, and quotes provided, it’s time for the fun stuff. During this stage you get to shop for furniture to complete the look. Compare materials like wood, metal, plastic, and wicker to determine what suits your needs and budget.
Wood and metal pieces tend to be more durable, but require more maintenance to prevent weathering and rust. Synthetic rattan and wicker provide a natural look with less upkeep. For seating, consider moveable chairs, benches, loungers or dining sets. An outdoor rug, pillows, and accent lighting will make the space extra cosy for entertaining or relaxing.
Don’t forget extras like side tables, planters, outdoor art, string lights, or a fire pit. Check out local home stores as well as online retailers who specialise in patio and garden decor. Watch for sales and closeouts at the end of the season to score the best deals.
Shop for Plants
Now that the heavy lifting in your yard is complete, you get to start picking out plants! A variety of greenery, flowers, and foliage will transform your space into an urban oasis.
Visit local nurseries
Check out nurseries in your area to find plants that will thrive in your climate. Talk to the staff about what grows well in your zone and sunlight conditions. They can suggest low-maintenance, native plant options suited to your space. Buying from local nurseries also supports small businesses in your community.
Don’t forget to measure your yard and any planting areas you want to fill so you know how many plants to purchase for good coverage. It’s easy to get carried away at the nursery, so go in with a plan. You’ll save money by not overbuying plants you may struggle to care for later on.
Bring photos of your yard for reference, if needed. The nursery staff can then provide recommendations based on your specific space and needs. With their guidance, you’ll end up with a lush, cohesive plant scheme for your dream backyard.
Must-Have Features for Your Backyard Renovation Checklist
When planning your backyard renovation, certain features are must-haves. These basics will transform your space into an oasis you’ll enjoy for years to come.
A patio or deck
A paved and shaded area for relaxing, dining and entertaining is essential. Consider a patio, deck or both. A patio cover gives you great outdoor shade so you can enjoy the great outdoors all year round.
Lighting
Add path lights, spotlights and string lights so you can enjoy your yard day or night. Path lights illuminate walkways for safety. Spotlights highlight architectural features or garden focal points. String or fairy lights give a magical glow ideal for evenings. If you opt for an insulated patio roof, you can have lights and fans fitted into it.
Plant life
What’s a backyard without greenery? Plant trees for shade, shrubs for privacy, flowers for colour and fragrance. Choose a mix of perennials and annuals for year-round interest. Don’t forget potted plants, window boxes and hanging baskets.
Seating
Provide places for people to perch. A bench under a tree, chairs around a fire pit, stools at an outdoor bar – options abound. Moveable seating like folding chairs gives flexibility. Adirondack chairs, loveseats and sectionals invite lounging.
Storage
Keep your yard clutter-free with a shed, cabinet or closet. Store tools, gardening equipment, cushions, umbrellas and other accessories when not in use. Choose a style that matches your home and yard decor. Conceal or camouflage storage so it doesn’t distract from your serene space.
Deciding on the Right Colour Scheme
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When choosing a colour scheme for your backyard renovation, think about the overall look and feel you want to achieve. Do you prefer a vibrant, tropical vibe with bright oranges and turquoises or a more natural woodland palette of forest greens and browns?
Complement Your Home
Choose a colour scheme that complements your home’s exterior. If your house has warm tan brickwork and a terracotta roof, go for earthy tones like rust, umber and ochre. For a contemporary home with neutral grey render, opt for a scheme of charcoal, navy and crisp white. Consider the view from inside your home as well and how your new outdoor space will be an extension of your interior design.
Include Natural Shades
Don’t forget to include natural shades of green, from mint to olive to forest. Plant life is an essential part of any backyard, so make sure your colour scheme incorporates hues that allow greenery to shine through. Pops of brighter colour can still be added through outdoor furniture, accessories, and flowering plants.
Maintaining Your Renovated Backyard
Once your backyard renovation is complete, ongoing maintenance is key to keeping your outdoor space beautiful and functional for years to come.
Regular inspections
Walk around your yard regularly, at least once a month, and inspect elements like:
- Decking and patios for any damage, splinters or unstable areas.
- Lawns for bare or dying patches that may need reseeding or fertilising.
- Plants and shrubs for signs of disease or nutrient deficiencies. Prune as needed.
- Play equipment to ensure all parts are secure, stable and in working order.
- Fences and gates for any repairs needed.
Performing routine checks and maintenance will allow you to catch any issues early and prevent costly repairs down the road. Your backyard oasis will continue to be a source of enjoyment and entertainment for your friends and family.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the ultimate checklist to transform your backyard into an oasis. Follow these steps and by this time next year, you’ll be enjoying long summer evenings on your patio with friends, hosting barbecues and movie nights under the stars. Your garden will be blooming with life and colour, and your yard will become the envy of the neighbourhood. What are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves, grab your tools and get started. A stunning backyard makeover is within your grasp if you take it one step at a time. Before you know it, you’ll be unwinding in your very own backyard paradise. The possibilities are endless if you use your imagination – now go make the space you’ve always dreamed of!
