A backyard view
The backyard of a house can often be neglected in terms of decorating budgets, but it can easily be turned into a comfortable and inviting haven for all to enjoy. The key to decorating your backyard on a budget is to be creative in how you fill the space and where to shop for items. With patience and a little work you can easily turn a hum-drum outdoor space into your perfect backyard retreat.
Furniture
Wicker furniture for an outdoor patio
Wicker, weather treated wood, wrought iron and plastic are all great ideas for backyard furniture. Although furniture can be an expensive lump-sum purchase, it does not always have to be. Mix and match outdoor furniture so you are able to add to it as you find new pieces. You will be able to create a sense of homogeneity with different accents such as seat cushions, design styles or even by painting different pieces to create a matching feel. Explore different options using cinder blocks as table bases or bringing unused household furniture outdoors.
Lighting
Candle accents on a table
A state of the art outdoor lighting system may not fit into your budget but that does not mean you can't enjoy your backyard after the sun goes down. Tiki torches can help set an outline of your backyard and also add light while warding off pesky nighttime bugs. Using candles outdoors is not only a great way to increase atmosphere but to add pleasant accents to the space in the daylight. Try different sizes of candles to create a mixture, place them sparingly throughout the space or grouped in one location for various looks. To line a walk way or add a touch of accent lighting, try solar powered outdoor lights, which charge by day and last well into the night. These lights now come in various forms from lantern style to mimicking rocks, so you'll be able to find a style that suits your taste and decor.
Accents
Mason jars used as flower vases.
Choosing accents for your backyard can really show your creative side. Mix store-bought items with rustic items from an antique store, use drinking glasses for flower vases or painted coffee cans for plant holders. Use color to add special touches to fabric seat cushions and create cohesion throughout your backyard space. Flowers and landscaping do not have to be expensive and over the top, but maintaining what you have can make a big difference in its appearance. Accents can add greatly to your backyard space and are your chance to bring a sense of home to the outdoors.
Where to Shop
Garage sales are a great place to find deals on outdoor patio furniture and other items such as china pieces, dishes, vases and such, to add that special touch to your backyard retreat. Stores such as Good Will and Habitat for Humanity Re-stores often have pieces you can easily incorporate into your design and often at a discounted price. Large retailers such as Pier 1 Imports have yearly sales with large discounts at the end of a season. Although it may not work for you right now, it is always okay to keep items in mind for the next upcoming season and stock up while the price is right.
Tags: your backyard, into your, able find, backyard retreat, backyard space, flower vases, outdoor patio