Summer Backyard Inspiration & Design Essentials

Hi friends!  I am so excited to share with you all our house remodel that is underway stay tuned for next week!  Today I had to share some fun summer backyard essentials, inspiration, and decor.  We hit triple digits already in Arizona although it’s cooled down a bit it will be hot again soon.  We spend a good portion of our summer weekends at BBQ’s and in the pool so it’s nice to have a functional well designed outdoor space.  When we were house shopping it was extremely important for us to have a backyard that we could entertain and the girls could enjoy.  I can’t wait to share with you all the before and after of the backyard!  A few essentials for a great backyard are:

1). Greenery – Growing up in the Pacific Northwest Greenery is a must for me (even in the desert)!  Adding potted plants is a perfect addition to your backyard landscape it’s also fun to plant seasonal flowers/plants to add some color.

2).  Comfortable Seating – Chaise lounges and seating is important especially around the pool!  If you don’t have a pool create a seating area that you can enjoy and entertain in.  There are some great spaces below surrounding fire pits and beautiful landscape.

3).  Lighting – Lighting is so important!   String lights and in ground lighting can set a perfect mood!  If you have a covered patio hang an outdoor lighting fixture on a dimmer for mood lighting.

4). Textiles – Pillows and rugs make the outdoor space cozy and add warmth.  You can also add drapes to pergolas and your covered patio.  Incorporate a fun color combination through textiles and accessories.

5). Activities or Games – They have so many fun games you can incorporate to your backyard for entertaining such as Bocce Ball, Croquet, Jenga, etc.

How pretty is this space from Rue Magazine with the open windows to the backyard perfect for entertaining!

These lights are a must for our new backyard I love the mood they set!  They also look really amazing draped on walls. Image Via Brooklyn Limestome

These extra wide chaises are amazing!  Love the Navy & White stripe. Via Pinterest

Love everything about this photo!  The wood decking and walls and the modern decor via Pinterest

The vines and wood elements are so pretty in this photo! Image via Rue Magazine

In love with this Bohemian outdoor space! Via My Domaine

Backyard/patio remodel via SF Girl By the Bay

Love all the colors in this design via The Everygirl

Patio via Sunset

Image via Home Depot

What are some of your backyard staples?  Can’t wait to share with you all what we do with our yard.