For most people, backyard is just a lawn or perhaps a patio area, and they don’t usually want to change that. Still, what if you could renovate your backyard and add things which will not only be great for you and your family, but which would increase the value of your home at the same time? By adding certain things to your backyard, you can make it more comfortable and more personal, and you can turn it into a peaceful oasis for both colder and warmer days.

Plant trees

Trees are great – they add colour, privacy, and much-needed shade to your backyard, and they will also add value to it as well. Pretty much everything else loses value over time, but trees grow bigger, stronger, and more valuable. The best trees to plant are the young ones because they will adapt better, and when you sell your home they will add a touch of nature to it. While your first instinct may be to plant fruit trees, such as apples or pears, think about the smell of rotting coming from the fruit which you won’t be able to pick up and instead opt for something simpler, such as magnolia or oak tree.

Landscape lighting

Thoughtful landscape lighting is a treat for the eyes and it keeps you safe at the same time. People who drive by your home will slow down to admire your backyard because you will create something unique and lovely. When using path lights, feel free to mix different styles and sizes to avoid a monotonous, uniformed look. Every now and then, clean the lamps with damp cloth and dish soap, and make sure the bulbs aren’t burnt out. Your plants will continue to grow, and if you notice your flowers blocking the light output, simply relocate the lamp. Landscape lighting will show off your garden at night, keep you safe when you walk through the yard in the dark, and it will also keep burglars away.

Water, water, water

One of the easiest ways to make a sanctuary out of your backyard is to add the sound of running water to it. Whether it’s a simple little fountain, a small pond where you can keep koi fish, or a hot tub, having water-filled areas in your backyard will increase the value of your home. All you need is a comfortable place to sit down and relax while you listen to the sound of humming water, and you’ll feel the relieved from any kind of stress. The best thing is that you can make your fountain from scratch: all you need is a terracotta pot and a simple recirculating pump from the hardware store and voila – you will have your own DIY fountain.

Make it greener

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could make your backyard greener? Concrete patio is a bad idea because it will create a parking-lot type of yard and rain will only make puddles. By installing grass pavers, you will ensure that green grass neatly covers the driveway and this will keep your front lawns designed to a T. Not to mention that you won’t ruin your lawn when you park your car out front. This is a great solution for areas with heavy rainfalls – they allow the drainage of rainwater back into the underground soil instead of directing it in the waterways.

Fire pit

Fire pits are something you will not be able to use every day, so people tend to avoid installing them. Still, fire pits (or fireplaces) are a touch of luxury people like to have in their backyards. Climate is changing, and cold days are getting even colder, so adding a fire pit will be a nice touch to any backyard for practical reasons, as well. It also makes barbeque days much more enjoyable, and it’s great for small fires, so you can roast marshmallows there and make your outdoor time memorable. There are simple, transportable pits available, but you can also choose to install a real fireplace (although it will cost you more).

Backyard landscaping can seem like a big project, and people don’t do it because they fear the costs would be too high. You can give your backyard a nice makeover with some simple landscaping ideas and you can end up with a yard of your dreams. If you’re not afraid of working hard and if you like the idea of having a whole new backyard, roll up your sleeves and give it a go.