As soon as the weather gets nice, I get that itch to refresh my yard! I start dreaming about what I want to do. The problem? My budget and my dream list don’t always match.
I have a plan for this fall and another for next spring, but that doesn’t stop me from gathering inspiration right now. Today, let’s celebrate the amazing weather and look at some gorgeous spaces together. Maybe your perfect yard is a mix of these ideas.
Perfecting the Ground
There is nothing more intimidating than staring at a big patch of ground and just wondering what to do with it. Even if you move into a place where the big landscaping decisions are already made, you might still be stuck with plants that don’t work or problem areas that just aren’t your style.
The good news is, so many possibilities are waiting for you! No matter how small the space, you can always define it with a little gravel. Or pebbles, like you see here.
credit: www.foliahd.com
I am a little bit obsessed with this next small space. It just defines modern chic for me. Basalt gravel? Yes. Stepping stones in irregular patterns? Yes. Lush, unusual plants? Yes! When can I move in?!
credit: Allen Associates (photo by Ciro Coehlo)
Just remember that modern doesn’t have to mean stark. There’s no rule that says you must design a minimalist space to get a contemporary feel.
Try mixing ultra-modern and traditional things. How about a gravel “lawn” bordered by boxwood edging and citrus trees? And don’t forget that mirrored ball lawn ornament!
credit: www.amslandscapedesign.com
Speaking of gravel, this stuff is amazing and can really help you define your yard. Try using stepping stones to map out a patio, and then fill in the rest of the ground with gravel. Add some retro-style seating for a great pop of color.
credit: www.coatesdesign.com (photo by Lara Swimmer)
Then again, it is so hard not to love the look of stepping stones surrounded by lush, mossy grass.
credit: www.m-architecture.com
If your budget allows for it, think about adding a water feature, like the one below. This stunning outdoor space is actually centered around a modern “stream.” It must be so soothing and calming with its gentle, lapping water.
credit: www.kbcdevelopments.com
With all this talk about stepping stones, concrete, and water, we can’t forget the beauty of a perfectly manicured green. Sure, it takes some work to maintain, but there is nothing more alluring than soft, carpet-like grass just begging you to take your shoes off and go for a walk.
credit: www.hmb-architects.co.uk
Don’t be afraid to add some “wild” elements to your manicured modern yard. Native plants and grasses are such a great way to bring in that contemporary style. And the best part? They require very little maintenance.
credit: www.arterrallp.com
If you are working with a really large space, think about allowing a part of the yard to stay truly wild. There is nothing more stunning than seeing an untamed landscape that slowly becomes more manicured, and then ends in a cement patio.
credit: www.huettldesign.com
Furnishing Your Modern Outdoor Space
Okay, so once the ground is handled, it’s time to think about furnishings! I have to admit, figuring out outdoor seating can be tricky.
How much do you spend? Does it need to be super weatherproof? What about color? Of course, if your patio has an overhead cover, you get a bit more flexibility. The rain won’t get in, even if some critters still do!
credit: www.allenbianchi.com
Your seating can be as grand as a whole outdoor living room setup, or as simple as just a couple of benches by a table. I find cushions are a game-changer for adding color and style. Look how they brighten this space!
credit: www.thesebrowneyes.com (photo by Kara Mosher)
And don’t be afraid to get creative with your chairs. Down below are the Seville Club Chairs. I just love how the mix of warm and cool tones creates this really interesting, artistic contrast.
credit: www.babmar.com
Wow! This next space has so much seating, it could fit a huge group. I mean, if you’ve got the room, why not?! This patio is totally ready for a party.
We also have to admire how it mixes that modern style with charming touches, like the manicured potted plants. Which brings us to our next section…
credit: www.alexamend.com
Mixing Your Styles
I love seeing modern meet traditional, or a manicured space paired with something wild. There’s a real power in blending styles. You can create a totally contemporary look by strategically mixing different statements.
Just look at this next space! It has planters filled with topiaries, but also wild grass. It’s so interesting how that little bit of spiky greenery makes the whole look feel updated.
credit: www.foliahd.com
A gravel “lawn” feels undeniably modern, right? But a boxwood border just screams traditional English gardens. Put them together, and it’s pure modern magic!
credit: www.foliahd.com
There’s something so contemporary about the patio below. But the planters and all the greenery they hold create this really eclectic vibe. It gives the space a lived-in feel. It’s like all the pieces have a story, and they’ve come together to create a space that feels so authentic.
credit: www.bagnatoarchitecture.com.au
We’re finishing this section with an unforgettable yard. It combines earthy chairs with bright cushions and modern chaise lounge seating. The styles of the pieces might be different, but those vivid colors are what really unite the whole space.
credit: www.houzz.com
There’s nothing like a little inspiration to get the creative juices flowing, right? Did any of these landscaping or outdoor design ideas spark something for you while you were browsing?
Share your thoughts and tell me your favorites in the comments below!
