How to create different "rooms" in my back yard?
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My back yard is just a big green area right now. We have a walk-out covered by the deck with patio furniture. I'd like to create different areas in the yard with perhaps little winding paths but don't know how to get started. I'd appreciate any suggestions. Marcia
6 answers
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Pictures would greatly help us help you Marcia.
Z
on Mar 17, 2014
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Painted lattice, pavers, and shrubbery of multiple heights can add dimension. The key is to choose design elements of multiple heights. But first, consider the goal of your backyard- kid friendly, romantic garden, functional grilling space, etc. From there, think about the 'must-have' elements such as a playset, grill, extra seating, tool-shed, etc and where you want them located. Then you can consider the design elements (plants, walkways, dividers, fire pit, etc.
DR HANDY
on Mar 18, 2014
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Do you want any lawn left? I decided what lawn portion I wanted, then started to shape the lawn and then planting and putting a path round that. My yard is not large so having a path go through it wasn't really a good option but if you have a very large yard you can have more than one lawn section. Also is your deck open all over to the yard or a lot higher and only one walk down? That might be where you want to begin
Tanya Peterson Felsheim
on Mar 18, 2014
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Think about your yard and what you want these rooms to be, then get out a piece of paper and do some sketching. Plant material can divide a room, as can elements of the hardscape.
Douglas Hunt
on Mar 19, 2014
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This is well beyond my energy level these days, but please post photos as you go along! A beautiful yard is a continuing task so take it a step at a time! Good luck!
Jeanette S
on Mar 19, 2014
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When deciding to define areas in the yard, you need to first figure out what each area has to give and what you want/need--such as a potty area, play area (if you have kids or grandkids or even pets). An outdoor area for entertaining with a firepit or even just a swing under an arbor or pergola for watching the sunset. If you lawn is all green, then you will need to decide which areas are hardest at keeping green and lush and go from there. Hate trimming? Then figure out how to turn that area in a curvier bed or sitting area. Barren spot under a tree large enough for a shed and/or potting area? My back yard has 60' oaks and has never had grass. So I have put in paths with gravel where I know water runs during storms, and put in my potting area in the back where nothing grows and I use 2 panels to hide the area from the deck for privacy. If you want a pond or water feature, then a sunny area works best and where you can see & hear it from your deck, kitchen window, or other patio or sitting area. I also take pictures at many angles and carry them on my phone if I go to the store so I can remember what I am working with. When I do place a plant or object I look at it from the front and back and all sides so I can see what it looks like walking into the yard or from sitting on my deck or even from my kitchen window. (I also go upstairs to the 2nd floor to look down too!) Using plant material to screen and divide is a great bonus too because you can have green all year. I use a variety of materials and my projects are usually tailored after I find my materials either by clearance/closeouts but I have upcycled many yard sale and garbage finds. Writing it down on paper is highly suggested as Douglas posts. However, if you are not that organized, use pictures that you print off on your computer on plain paper and draw/mark on them if that is easier. Print off pictures from Pinterest, Hometalk, or tear out magazine articles too and organize them in a binder to help you plan your dreamscape. Good luck and happy gardening.
The Garden Frog with C Renee
on Mar 19, 2014
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