A Backyard Dream pt. 1
To me, there are essentially two kinds of individuals: those who revel in gardening and landscaping and those who don't. My husband falls into the latter category, while I firmly belong to the former. However, please do not get me confused with someone who loves hiking/camping – I DO NOT. I am wine on a patio type of person.
The transformation of our yard over the past six years has been remarkable. Upon arrival, it was basically a dirt patch. We had sprinklers and sod installed. We extended our patio and built another one too. I, yes, me, myself painted our house. My vision was to create a yard that is both beautiful yet (relatively) easy to maintain. As flowers and relaxing outside with a crisp class of champagne in hand is my ultimate luxury. (Note: I am happy to trade my yard for a Parisian balcony, with champagne in hand.)
Our backyard when we moved in - May 2018
My passion for gardening/decorating stems from my mom. Our family home in Iowa is stunning with rose gardens, cut flower gardens, shaded gardens, fruits & veggies, you name it, my mom has it, (if it grows in Zone 5). She’s akin to Monet of Iowa with her green thumb. Frequently, friends seek my advice on backyard design and planting choices. While I can offer myriad suggestions on layout and design, my recommendations for plants, flowers, and trees are contingent upon the level of maintenance one is willing to undertake.
My parents yard/garden in IA
For those who haven't had the pleasure (or perhaps, the endurance) of enduring my "constructive input" on décor and gardening (just ask my sister-in-law), I've compiled some ideas, inspiration, and advice for your own outdoor spaces for you to peruse and perhaps implement. So, consider this a friendly offering, take what resonates, and leave what doesn't—enjoy! 😊
Sitting Area(s)
For me, I want my backyard to feel like an extension of my home. I have 5 different sitting areas in my backyard, the more the merrier. My first recommendation would be to get a dining or bistro table for your yard and build from there. Embrace the art of mixing & matching – you don’t need to buy the whole patio set. Play around with different styles. And with Memorial Day on the horizon, keep an eye out for outdoor furniture sales.
Fire Pit(s)
I am a staunch advocate for fire pits—we have two. We use them year-round. My son loves smores, I love wine by fire, it’s a win win.
Play Area(s)
While our entire yard doubles as a playground, I've designated two specific areas for my son. The first features his playhouse and table, which I painted several years ago, situated on its own paver patio. The second area, located on the south side of our house, serves as storage for his colorful outdoor toys while still providing ample space for play. These designated zones help me feel like his toys haven’t fully overtaken the beautiful space we have built.
Flower Pots
Now this is a BIG one. Currently looking out into my yard I can see 17 flower pots. All filled with flowers and 3 pots filled with perennial flowering bushes. With Pots: collect pots. Go to thrift shops, Goodwill, wherever and collect pots. Mix & Match. Different sizes & styles. I am absolutely in love with how the French always have trees and bushes in their pots, so I have mirrored that myself. When it comes to flowers, I recommend opting for a variety of colors that complement each other, arranging them in groupings within the pot. While the options are endless, here are a few common flowers you can easily find at your local store in May to kickstart your collection: Snap Dragons, Dusty Miller, Lobelia, Calibrachoas (a chicer Petunia), Lavender, Sweet Potato Vine, Cape Jewels, Geraniums, and Creeping Jenny. Don't forget to grab soil while you're at the store!
Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs play a crucial role in delineating and defining spaces within your yard. Personally, I opt for plastic outdoor rugs—they're affordable, durable, and if you tire of them, easily replaceable.
Decorative Objects
Don't underestimate the impact of decorative objects in your yard. Throw pillows in vibrant colors and prints, outdoor mirrors to add depth, string lights, solar pathway lights, wall sconces and side tables—all contribute to creating an inviting outdoor oasis that feels like an extension of your home.
I have countless more ideas to share regarding outdoor gardening and decorating, particularly concerning what's flourishing in my own garden. However, we'll save that for part two. For now, roll up your sleeves, dig into that dirt, and feel free to reach out with any garden or yard-related queries at livinglarah@gmail.com and make sure you follow on Instagram @larahinga!
XO, Larah
P.S. You can find links to some of my favorite outdoor items under 'Pretty Things' on my website.