A Back Patio Makeover + 11 Fun Things to do in Your Backyard

For years, I’d look out the breakfast room window only to feel like my back patio was off limits. Largely because of the clutter that accumulated there. But also because my landscaping plans were expensive and out of reach. I’m such an all or nothing girl it took me a while to realize I could start small with a back patio makeover. 

A Simple Back Patio Makeover

Clutter is more powerful than we give it credit for. It can block our vision and keep us from seeing the potential in our homes.

In fact, I know couples who move because they want a bigger yard when a little clean up and space planning might have changed their outlook. (Kind of like in Property Brothers or Love it or List It when a makeover reveals what was hidden behind clutter.)

In my case, we aren’t moving. And landscaping isn’t in the budget. So, I knew if I was going to fulfill my desire for an outdoor lifestyle, I’d have to start by cleaning up the mess I’d made in the backyard.

Clean the Space

So, one day last Fall, I cleared off the patio and furnished it with the glider from the front porch. I felt like I was putting a stake in the ground and claiming new territory. 

Unfortunately, the string lights I’d hung on the patio a few years before went out over Christmas. Every time I saw those lights I thought “I need to take those lights down.” And there were a couple of other yard things I never put away.

All this nagging little to-dos made my backyard feel like a constant burden. 

Then this Spring, I finally finished putting everything away. Once the patio and yard were cleaned up, my mind was free to think about how to decorate our small patio. 

Space Planning for a Back Patio Makeover

Three things to keep in mind when planning a back patio makeover, or any room makeover.

1. Mood – Arrange furniture and choose decor that fosters the mood you’re trying to create. I was going for an intimate mood, so I created an cozy conversation area. 
2. Flow – Keep the overall design and flow in mind when you arrange the furniture. Will your furniture fit in your space? Does the arrangement block a pathway or door? Is it easy to walk around?
3. Function – Choose furniture based on how you plan to use the space. A small glider bench and chair are perfect for my needs. But, if entertaining was the main goal, I would’ve needed larger furniture pieces like a couch and an outdoor coffee table along with a table and chairs. 

Choosing Outdoor Furniture

Choice of Materials

There are a lot of great outdoor materials to choose from, so be sure to research what materials can withstand the elements. 

I considered putting the bench between my two crepe myrtle trees, but with this Texas heat and humidity, I was concerned it would rust. And that any cushions I put on it would fade. 

The end tables are actually for indoor use so they’re tucked under the patio to protect them from sun damage and rain.

With all the furniture I used for my back patio makeover covered, I feel like it will last a while. 

Outdoor Furniture Arrangement

I knew I wanted an outdoor seating area that was suitable for conversation, reading, and maybe even working outdoors. 

The glider I set on the patio last Fall felt so limiting…probably because it faced the backyard which made it difficult to do anything but sit and stare at the fence. Not what I had in mind. 

So, I turned it sideways, then added a simple patio chair across from it to create a conversation area. 

I found a set of wicker nesting tables at an estate sale and used those as occasional tables. An inexpensive outdoor rug from Walmart anchors the space and ties all the pieces together. 

I added potted plants and an outdoor lantern I already had. Now I have a welcoming patio space that functions perfectly for what I need.  

Seeing this seating area outside my breakfast room window feels like a huge exhale, and an invitation to the outdoor lifestyle I crave.  

Fun Things to Do in the Backyard

My back patio makeover isn’t finished yet, but I have everything I need to start enjoying some backyard fun. 

• Get Some Sunshine – I’d love to start each day soaking in the sun as it rises over the fence. This is a great way to regulate your circadian rhythm and fall asleep faster at night. 
• Yoga – Getting on the mat for an outdoor morning practice seems like a fun idea.
• Play Yard Games – I have visions of playing badminton or horse shoe in the backyard. 
• Have a Picnic – The romantic in me hopes we’ll throw down a blanket and enjoy a picnic on the lawn sometime soon. I guess I should start by buying a picnic blanket. 
• Garden – I’m planning to start an herb garden in my backyard. Walking outside to clip fresh basil for dinner seems so idyllic to me. This would be a great project to do with kids.
• Enjoy a Cold Treat – A covered patio provides a shady spot to enjoy a refreshing drink or cold dessert. You could let kids cool off with a popsicle or ice cream cone.
• Entertain – I look forward to having friends over and entertaining them on the back patio. Eventually, I want to replace the back door and window with french sliding doors to make it easy to move from the dining table to the patio. The backyard is also a great spot for a play date. The kids can play while the parents visit on the patio. Bonus points for adding a slip n slide or inflatable pool.
• Date Night – I hope to enjoy outdoor dates with my husband on our back patio. Quality time is my love language so the idea of sitting and visiting fills my cup. You and your spouse can have dinner al fresco then cuddle up on a bench or swing.
• Relax – The glider is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature when I need a break during the day. If you have a swing or a hammock you could even take a nap. 
• Go Barefoot – There’s something so calming about going barefoot. I’m going to enjoy the cool grass underneath my bare feet as often as I can. 
• Roast S’mores – I can’t wait to do this. I just need a fire pit or chiminea first. If you have kids, you could even camp in your backyard, starting with outdoor movie night.

Now, there’s no more looking out the window longing for the life I want. Who knew a simple back patio makeover could be so fulfilling?

For more outdoor living space ideas, read all about the magic that happens on my front porch.