Before and After: From Basic Backyard to a Luxe Outdoor Escape
There’s nothing quite like watching a simple backyard turn into a fully personalized outdoor retreat—and that’s exactly what happened with this recent project. What was once a standard, underused yard is now a multi-functional space made for relaxing, entertaining, and soaking in the best parts of outdoor living.
Before
The original space had all the ingredients for a great outdoor area—ample room, privacy, and solid bones. The deck was outdated and weathered, the porch didn’t feel inviting, and the yard itself was mostly uneven grass.
The homeowners dreamed of a space where they could relax, entertain friends, enjoy nature, and unwind year-round. So we got to work.
After
🪵 New Back Porch + Deck
We started by replacing the old deck and back porch with a modern, low-maintenance upgrade. Clean lines, warm wood tones, and integrated lighting brought a fresh, inviting look. The expanded layout now offers room for lounging, dining, and easy access to the rest of the yard.
🌧️ Rain Garden with Native Plantings
Instead of basic landscaping, we installed a beautifully designed rain garden. Not only does it absorb and filter rainwater runoff naturally, it also adds color and texture with a mix of native plants that bloom across the seasons. Functional and beautiful.
🔥 Sunken Fire Pit Area
One of the standout features? A cozy sunken fire pit space, built for gathering. With built-in seating and a sense of enclosure, this area creates the perfect setting for late-night conversations, toasty s’mores, and stargazing.
🌀 Kodama Swing Lounger
For a touch of play and peace, we added a Kodama swing lounger—hung in the perfect shady spot with a peaceful view. It’s become an unexpected favorite for reading, napping, and those moments when you just want to sway and breathe.
The Result: A Backyard That Feels Like a Vacation
What once felt like a forgotten patch of lawn is now a beautifully layered retreat with something for every mood. Morning coffee on the porch, afternoons in the swing, and evenings around the fire—it’s all possible now.
This update is proof that with the right design and details, your backyard can be more than a yard—it can be your favorite “room” in the house.
