Is your current backyard not measuring up to you “dream backyard standards?” Is your current backyard just OK? There are a few elements that will make it far more what you envisioned your backyard to look like.

So often home renovation projects neglect the outdoor space. But it’s just as important to spruce up and improve. Here are 5 ways you can do just that:

1. Put Up A “Modern” Pergola

A pergola can enhance the beauty of any outdoor space, aside from being practical by providing shade and a place for vines to grow. But some outdoor pergola contractors take pergolas to a whole new level. Imagine an exquisitely designed, streamlined louvered pergola attached to the back of your house and covering your patio. Imagine being able to adjust the louvers to open/close or to angle as pleased to let in just the right amount of light and breeze. Add to that a remote control and an automation system run by rain sensors that will keep your patio dry effortlessly. No need to image it. It exists!

2. An Upgraded Sprinkler System

If your plants aren’t getting enough water and you need a lawn sprinkler repair, don’t wait till your turf dries up and gets to be too extreme an environment for anything but weeds to flourish in! But why just repair your sprinkler system and not extend, adjust, and upgrade it at the same time?

A rich, green, lush-looking lawn will immediately transform your backyard into an oasis. Make sure every square foot of your grass gets plenty of water, and automate the system as much as possible.

3. Invest In New And Natural Patio Furniture

You can buy or even make beautiful naturally sourced furniture suitable for outdoor use. And while a great variety of hardwoods or rustic, homemade style pieces could be mentioned, we recommend teak wood furniture.

Teak is trendy, stylish, clean-looking, durable, strong, and eminently natural. There are a wide variety of chairs, tables, and benches to select from, and virtually no two pieces are exactly alike. Sitting on teak near your outdoor fireplace or fire pit will feel relaxing.

4. Install An Outdoor Kitchen And Barbecue

In the past, an outdoor kitchen seemed like something only “the rich” could afford, but they are rapidly becoming more common among mid-income families as well. If you like to spend a lot of time outside in the fresh air and sunlight, cooking or grilling in your backyard can be “institutionalized” and made extremely convenient by investing in an outdoor kitchen complex.

Built-in grill stations, cooking prep counters, a functional sink, benches, tables, and chairs, and maybe a bar with stools can all be included. With patio, rain shelter, fire pit, and other features nearby, and with quick access between indoor and outdoor kitchens, cooking outside will be easier and more enjoyable than ever.

You could even go all out and hire a Minneapolis spa installer (or one in your local area) to install an outdoor spa, to add a splash of luxury into your backyard, to really make those garden barbecues something special. 

5. Put Up Outdoor Awnings

Finally, putting up awnings over your outdoor windows will reduce heat intake during summer, keeping your home cooler and lowering your energy bill. You can buy retractable awnings to stretch over a porch and retract during non-use to minimize wear and tear. Longer awnings along main entry points or along commonly used paths (say, between the house and a detached garage) are also very convenient.

Match the awning design and color to your home’s exterior or make it a complementary contrast. It will add an aesthetic appeal to your home.

Joshua Nelson is a super-connector with ManageBacklinks.io who helps businesses with building their audience online through outreach, partnerships, and networking. Joshua frequently writes about the latest advancements in the SaaS world and digital marketing.