Backyard Ideas | HGTV

Subtle Terracing in Backyard

This backyard benefits from the subtle use of various textures on its terraces that ups the excitement level. A dramatic wall gives a feeling of enclosure and privacy, a great solution when neighbors might be close.

Creating a naturalistic stream and waterfall adds movement, noise and wildlife to the backyard landscape that will be enjoyed by the entire family.

Terraced tiers evoke a sense of peace, excitement, and interest in this urban backyard. The modern bench in the corner makes an ideal place to pause and take in the space and the reflections in the mirrored wall.

A colorful summer teepee creates a backyard summer playhouse for children to enjoy from spring through fall.

A well planned backyard vegetable garden plot can yield a bountiful harvest of vegetables from spring into fall. A variety of crops, such as tomatoes, squash and herbs, will flourish in a well watered and sunny spot.

Bamboo rolls are used to run vertically with black painted lattice, creating a tranquil Japanese theme in this private backyard garden.

A small backyard greenhouse is a good spot to start early vegetables and flowers. Once the weather warms, the door and windows can be left open to increase airflow.

An urban backyard is transformed into a living family sanctuary that features an area for dining, lounging and playing.

Use an imaginative design to make the most of available backyard space. Create privacy with tall fences, rather than borders. Integrate features such as built in seating with raised beds and plant with aromatic herbs to create a scented relaxation area.

If you have a large backyard, you may have room for an outbuilding to use as a guest room, playhouse or private retreat. Furnish it with comfortable furniture to create a relaxing home away from home.

A level backyard lends itself to a courtyard effect and multiple outdoor "rooms."

What some homeowners would see as deficitsa sloped and shady backyardthese homeowners have turned into assets. This tranquil, restful escape from busy city life features a path that winds through groves of 'Knock Out' roses, butterfly bushes, azaleas and areas of visual interest, from a koi pond to a bird bath, along the way.

Old and new architectural styles combine in this striking backyard Southern pavilion. The focal point (#1) is the striking fireplace. A woven, seagrass rug (#2) softens the space. Water-resistant furniture (#3) makes sense in this space exposed to the elements.

Fancy a swim under the stars or how about a dip in a pool lit only by the light of a firewall?

Create a backyard that both adults and children can enjoy. Areas for both play and relaxation will work for all ages, if the space is well designed.

Exotic foliage surrounds the edges of this small backyard pond.

A pond can be a beautiful, calming feature in a backyard if the space is large enough. It will help attract wildlife and a variety of surrounding plants can be used to offer color and texture.

Entertaining in the backyard is a favorite pastime of family and friends. A patio can easily be adapted for an outdoor eating area by adding a grill, table and chairs.

A winding backyard path is the perfect way to explore the many different areas of the yard. The path can go from the house, past a dining table, to a shed and around to a play area, all surrounded by plantings.

Concrete leaf stepping stones lead the way to a backyard playhouse.

Wood decking is a way to make a small backyard space warm and inviting. It creates a sophisticated look for an outdoor living and dining area right outside the home.

Is your backyard is graced with large, sturdy trees? Then maybe what you need is a treehouse. DIY designs range from simple, open-air decks to fully-finished spaces complete with plumbing and electricity.

Fire pits create a wonderful focal point for an outdoor gathering space and add warmth to backyard gatherings on cool evenings.

Landscape designer Jamie Durie removed the lawn from a shady backyard and then filled the space with tropical plants, a floating lounge and a daybed.

Moss gardens mean even shade is no deterrent to green. Moss makes a beautiful border in this Japanese garden and requires no mowing, leaving more time for meditation.

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Backyard Ideas | HGTV