Mistakes To Avoid If You Want To Enjoy Your Backyard More 

February 1, 2024
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Interior Designer. Fearless DIYer. Sharing interior design tips and building project tutorials. Let’s design and build something beautiful together. For more design tips, projects and behind the scenes, follow me @designtobuild.nicole

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Your backyard should be so much more than just a space you happen to own outside your house. It actually has a lot of potential. There are several ways you can enjoy it a lot more. From installing an outdoor kitchen to planting the right flowers to hiring gardeners to take care of things when you can’t.

However, it won’t matter what you do if you don’t know about the mistakes you need to avoid that can undo all the good. With that in mind, keep reading to find out more so you can avoid those mistakes and enjoy your backyard as much as possible. 

Pergola space with outdoor sofa, outdoor chairs and new planters

Not Considering Privacy

Hanging out in the backyard is a great escape from the day-to-day grind. It’s great to want to be out in your backyard as much as possible, But privacy is important too. It’s nice to be somewhat secluded while you’re relaxing with a book, gardening, playing with the kids, enjoying some al fresco food, spending time with your friends, or anything else.  

DIY planter box with little lime hydrangeas

That’s why you need to avoid the big mistake of not considering privacy when you design your backyard. It’s always going to be tempting to look over a fence if it’s a short one or peer through a gap if it exists – sometimes, it can’t be helped.

So, if you can put measures in place to prevent that and make the backyard more private, it’s a good idea. You can install patio blinds, for example, raise the height of your fence, plant some hedges, and if you also want to make the garden secure, you can install lighting, cameras, and locks. 

Forgetting About Pest Control

Unfortunately, pests are going to be in your backyard. That’s a given. After all, you’re outside, meaning you’re in their territory, so you’re not going to be able to avoid them.

But that doesn’t mean that you have to just grin and bear it – there are things you can do to control the pests in your backyard. Allowing you to enjoy the space a lot more. Don’t assume there’s nothing to be done.

Furniture Build Projects: backyard patio space with outdoor furniture and planters

One of the best things to do is to create an area of your backyard that’s just for ‘pests’ (which aren’t really pests, of course, they’re insects for the most part and vital to the ecosystem!).

Plant some flowers, make a wildflower area, add a bee hotel, and so on. In doing this, a lot of the insects will be attracted there rather than where you want to be. On top of this, have some natural insect repellents around you, like citronella candles (ideal when you’re eating outside), to prevent any bugs from getting too close. 

Underestimating The Work

Taking care of a backyard can be a lot of hard work, and there’s always something to do at most times of the year, whatever the weather. A big mistake a lot of people make, is to assume gardening is a nice, easy hobby. They underestimate how much work needs to be done. 

Round fluted side table with outdoor furniture on a blue and white outdoor rug

It’s time to start thinking about the warmer months ahead. They are coming!! Any plans for your backyard? Now is the time to start planning. I recently made some big changes to our backyard. It’s now a place we all love to hang out!

Designer Tip: When It Might Be Time to Bring in Help

If you’re working on your home and things still don’t feel quite right, you’re not alone. Many of our clients start exactly where you are now. They’ve gathered ideas, saved inspiration photos, and maybe even purchased a few pieces, but the space still doesn’t feel cohesive. That’s often the moment when having a designer can make all the difference. We help homeowners create a clear plan so every decision works together. From layout and furniture placement to finishes and lighting, the goal is a space that feels thoughtful, comfortable, and complete.

If you’d like a little guidance with your space, you can learn more about our interior design services below.

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Planning a kitchen, living room, or full home project? Start with a quick discovery call to see if we’re a good fit.

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Let’s go beyond the design to build something beautiful together!

Check Out More Great Outdoor Posts

Ideas for How to Create a Comfortable Outdoor Living Space

Choosing The Right Outdoor Patio Furniture to Fit Your Style

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