Get Living Outside

Categories: Interior Design, Outdoor Living

Inspiration to make your backyard dreams come true

We’ve had years to practice making our homes a place we hate to leave. We’ve renovated, revamped, refurbished and remodeled our way into spaces that are not only beautiful but uniquely functional for our families. But it’s time for some fresh air. You don’t have to go far—our backyards hold the potential to help us extend our routines outside without ever getting in the car. Not sure what to do with your space? We gathered a handful of backyard designs to inspire you to think outside the privacy fence and start living, really living, outside.

Elevated Backyard Retreat

Mark Galey, MCR, CRPM, UDCP, Master Home Remodelers, INC.

“The homeowner here really wanted to transform her generic backyard into something she could entertain in. She wanted a little bit of everything and a do-over of what hadn’t been done correctly the first time. She didn’t have a lot of space, and we had to encroach on what usable space there was to hit her punch list, but with some incredible partners representing the best in the industry, we made it work. From an arbor to an outdoor kitchen and fireplace to the louvered roof and a chic she-shed, plus a lot more, I love that we were able to bring her ideas to life in such creative ways. What started as a simple request for a louvered roof turned into a NADRA award-winning project—probably the best outdoor project of my career, to date—and a client who is totally blown away.”— Galey

Budget: $250,000

Timeline: 4 weeks

An Indoor/Outdoor Pool Oasis

Perry Walter, Walter Studio Interior Design

“My clients wanted to continue their interior living space into the backyard, marrying with the new infinity pool so that they could really enjoy the sights and sounds of lakefront living. With additional chaise lounge seating and chic side tables, we connected a relaxed interior with an incredibly scenic exterior. My favorite part of this project was creating a peaceful seating area underneath the roofline overhang. Because the pool sits up higher on the property aligned with the house, it creates stunning views overlooking the tree-lined lake. Throughout the year my clients enjoy spending time around (and in) the pool, able to open the interior retractable doors and create one amazing space that is perfect for entertaining friends and family.”— Walter

Budget: $100,000

Timeline: 6 months