Backyard Bliss: Creative Outdoor Hacks & Backyard Do’s and Don’ts

Plastic & Astroturf: The Great Outdoor Debate

Looking to level up your backyard game? Let’s talk about plastic —because whether you love it or loathe it, it’s everywhere in summer entertaining. Here’s what you need to know to keep your outdoor space both stylish and sustainable.

The Upside of Plastic

When it comes to outdoor entertaining, plastic furniture and dinnerware can be a real lifesaver—especially for big gatherings and poolside fun. Here’s why many hosts still reach for plastic pieces when getting ready for the summer season:

• Super Convenient: Plastic furniture and decor is lightweight, easy to carry, and perfect for big gatherings or picnics.
• Long-lasting and Safe: Plastic furniture holds up suprisingly well for the price. And with plastic dinnerware and decor, you can say goodbye to shattered glass by the pool or on the patio.
• Budget-Friendly: Plastic pieces also allow you to stock up for less, especially when you’re hosting a crowd.

The Downside of Plastic

Before you fill your cart with inexpensive plastic chairs or single-use plates and cups, consider the drawbacks. Plastic might be convenient, but it doesn’t always deliver on style or sustainability.

• Not So Chic: Let’s be honest—plastic just doesn’t feel as special. Whether it's furniture or dinnerware, plastic pieces often have a less refined feel.
• Big Environmental Bummer: Single-use plastics add to landfill waste and microplastics. The team points out, “the micro plastics are kind of a bummer,” so it’s best to avoid them when you can.

Creative Non-Plastic Alternatives

Looking for ways to keep your backyard stylish and sustainable? Try these creative swaps and upgrades that are as fun as they are functional.

• Aluminum & Thrifted Finds: Swap in aluminum cups or thrifted glassware from your local Arc Thrift Store for a unique, reusable twist. If something breaks, it’s no big deal!
• Upcycle with Style: Give old plastic planters a makeover—wrap them in rope or add a splash of paint for a high-end look without the waste.
• Xeriscape Your Lawn: Can't decide between grass or astroturf? With xeriscaping, you can replace thirsty grass with drought-tolerant plants, native shrubs, and decorative rocks for a beautiful yard that saves water and time.

With a little thought and creativity, you can keep your outdoor space both fun, safe, and eco-friendly all summer long! Use plastic sparingly, opt for safe reusable items that your backyard will thank you for, and of course personalize it to make it truly yours!

Money-Saving Outdoor Hacks: Big Impact, Small Budget

Who says you need a hefty wallet to create a backyard oasis? With a few clever tricks, you can transform your outdoor space into a summer retreat—without breaking the bank.

DIY Projects That Wow

Ready to give your backyard a major upgrade? These easy, eye-catching DIY projects will add instant charm and personality to your outdoor space.

• Terracotta Pot Bird Baths: Turn basic pots into charming bird baths! Just flip a pot, add a saucer on top, and you’ve got a spot for feathered friends to cool off.
• Rope-Wrapped Planters: Give those plain plastic planters a high-end makeover by wrapping them in rope with a hot glue gun. It’s an easy way to add texture and style for just a few bucks.

“I just took one of the plastic hanging baskets… and wrapped it in rope with hot glue.” - Jessa, showing how a little DIY can totally transform a basic planter.

• Painted Thrift Finds: Snag inexpensive pots or baskets from thrift stores and give them a fresh coat of paint. You’ll get unique, colorful pieces that look custom-made.

Fun & Games on a Dime

Bring your community together with simple, affordable games that turn any gathering into a party. Outdoor fun is the perfect way to connect with neighbors and make lasting memories!

• DIY Backyard Games: Bring people together with affordable games like cornhole or ladder ball. You can even make your ladder ball sets using simple materials like PVC pipes and golf balls.
• Community Connection: Invite neighbors over for a game night—outdoor fun is the perfect way to build friendships and make memories.

With these money-saving hacks, some creativity, and a focus on fun, your backyard can be the ultimate summer hangout—no big budget required!

Design Inspiration: Dream Home Touches

Take cues from pros like Barb and stage your space like a show home. Eye-catching and eclectic furniture choices ensure every piece works for you, transforming limited square footage into a functional yet inviting oasis. Pop in vibrant accents or throw pillows to make a statement, or take advantage of vertical space with hanging plants or wall art—these small tweaks add personality and make even the tiniest patio feel open, styled, and uniquely yours.

“It’s about what you like in your space, and what you actually want to spend the money on.” - Barb

Lawn Glow-Up: From Shabby Patch to Backyard Star

Ready to make your lawn the envy of the neighborhood? Transforming a patchy, neglected yard into a lush, inviting space is easier than you think—and so satisfying once you get started! Here’s how the podcast team tackled lawn rehab to achieve the “wow” factor that ties the whole backyard together.

Here’s the game plan:

• Weeding & Seeding: Don’t just cover up the problems—get down and dirty! Start by pulling those stubborn weeds at the root (hack: a screwdriver works great for dandelions). This clears away the competition, giving your grass a fighting chance to thrive.
• Choose the Right Seed: Pick a grass seed mix tailored to your climate. For mountainy areas with dramatic swings from sun to shade (like Colorado), look for blends adapted to wild weather—even hardware store specials labeled “Rocky Mountain grass” can work wonders.
• Smart Watering: No fancy sprinkler system? No problem! Hook up a simple hose and use a timer for easy morning and evening watering. It keeps the lawn green without wasting water, and helps your new grass settle in fast.
• Borrow & Barter: Need gear like a seed spreader? Borrow from a neighbor or post a request on community forums like Nextdoor. It’s a great way to meet people and foster that good neighborhood spirit the podcast raves about.
• Patience Pays Off: With a little love and intentional care, you can see a dramatic transformation—from brown, weedy patches to a green paradise—in as little as a month. And remember: perfection isn’t the goal. Enjoy the progress (and all those backyard gatherings and games on your new lawn!).

This hands-on approach maximizes your resources, keeps costs low, and yields significant rewards for your outdoor oasis - so don’t wait for the perfect patch of grass to get started!

By tackling your lawn with the same creative energy you bring to décor, you’ll have a dreamy, versatile outdoor space to show off all summer long!

How to Use AI for Outdoor Design

Ready to reimagine your patio or porch? AI tools can help you visualize new layouts and styles before you buy a single plant or pillow. Simply snap a photo of your space and upload it to an AI design platform! The AI will generate design ideas, suggest furniture arrangements, and even create images to help you see the possibilities. Experiment with different prompts or upload inspiration photos to get personalized results.

Your fill in the blank AI design: "Give me a creative _______ design including _______ and ________ with a __________ aesthetic"

“It can actually be a really good resource… you can prompt AI to give you whatever design you want!” - Jessa

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Dream Big

Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect space—start with what you have and make it great. A little effort and creativity can turn any backyard into your favorite summer spot.

Inspired by real-life design tips and stories from the Furniture Row team, as discussed on the Seated with Furniture Row Podcast.