Your backyard is an empty slate waiting to be filled with beautiful and attractive landscaping. Backyards with pools are popular, but there are plenty of other ways to improve your outside space and make it look inviting and relaxing.
We’ve looked into various innovative backyard ideas without a pool that can improve your outdoor life this summer.
Principles of Garden Layout 101
It would be best to consider a backyard’s aesthetic and functionality while constructing it. The following guidelines can help you strike a good balance in your design:
- Stick to a framework. The boundaries of your land, as well as the placement of your utility lines, walkways, and driveway, may all be determined with the use of a base plan.
- Remember proportions. The aesthetic value of your yard will only improve if you properly size your plant installations. Ensure the trees you plant around your home look nice, but don’t obstruct the view inside.
- Regulate the ecosystem. Don’t overplant some parts of the garden while ignoring others.
- Make a focal point. You can install an appropriately sized fountain, fire pit, gazebo, or statue for your outdoor garden decor.
Pros and Cons of Backyard Ideas Without Pool
The temptation to have a water element in the backyard gets to the best of us. Whether it’s a fountain for a little visual experience or a big entire pool for some summertime fun, many people opt for a home with a backyard only so that they can have a pool. But this doesn’t mean backyard ideas without pool are good for nothing. Many backyard design ideas without pools pass all the criteria of being relaxing, fun, and equally welcoming for summer fun. If you also have a backyard that doesn’t have a pool, then below are some pros and cons of backyard without pools.
More Square Footage
Many backyards with pools have most of their land area covered by the pool. This leaves less space for other family outdoor activities such as running, dining, BBQ, or even cycling for the kids. The big benefit of a backyard without a pool is that you can use it for many recreational and relaxing activities, such as dining outdoors, watching a movie with the family, a cycling space for the kids, and even having an entire land open to gardening.
No Safety Hazards
For backyards with no pools and small kids, there goes the constant fear of kids falling into the pool. Pools are open and boundaryless for aesthetic purposes, and even if you plan to overlook the aesthetics and put up a boundary surrounding the pool, the fear of your kids crossing the boundary still lingers.
No More Expensive Maintenance
Purchasing a backyard with a pool is a huge initial expense, but the story doesn’t end here. You will pay a lot for weekly, biweekly, monthly, and even annual maintenance of keeping a pool. A typical pool takes between 5 and 10 hours each week to maintain. You will need to engage a third-party organization to maintain it if that is not something you wish to do. Depending on your residence, that can cost you $150 to $500 monthly. So, having no pool in the backyard saves you a lot of time and effort.
No Added Insurance Expense
From an insurance point of view, pools are an inconvenience. Pools draw more people, attracting unneeded attention and leaving your house open to danger. These dangers might include burglary, mishaps, and other house damage covered by your insurance policy, no matter the type of the remaining home structure. On the other hand, backyards without pools give a simpler look and are less prone to threats and hence offer low insurance costs.
Decreased Property Value
Backyards themselves increase the property value by several folds, but having a pool is even more beneficial to the property value. This is why properties with pools are rarely considered budget-friendly and fall into the category of luxurious homes. Having a pool in your backyard will pay off in the future from an economic point of view. On the other hand, a backyard without a pool will pay off less when you wish to sell or rent it out.
Wonderful Physical Activity
Swimming is one of the highest and most beneficial forms of cardio, and people who own a pool can use it as a full fitness activity instead of heading out to the gym or running out for a jog. This backyard without pools doubles the fun where you and your kids can effectively cool off the heat and burn some calories.
Compromised Aesthetic
Backyard ideas with a pool are extra blessed as they offer you a focal point. You can set up your outdoor dining by the poolside or even have a mini bar at the corner of the pool. During summertime, an outdoor grilling station by the pool gives an amazing ambiance, and you can also purchase some outdoor chaise lounges to relax by the poolside. On the contrary, backyard oasis ideas without pool require a lot of creative energy, where you will prepare a focal point of the backyard and then center the entire décor on it.
Some Popular Back Ideas without Pool
No swimming pool? No issue. Make a cool haven by engaging in some innovative water-related activities. There are several other methods to enhance the appearance of your backyard without a pool or an oasis, too, even if water is not your favorite element to have there.
Vertical Gardens and Planters
It’s all about having a focal point or a principal wall in the backyard. And what’s better than a focal point that contains greenery and gives a wonderful scenic view, too? Vertical gardens or planters have been one of the most popular backyard decors because they don’t take up any extra space but add a touch of grace and beauty to any backyard.
Outdoor Movie Nights
If there is no worry about the pool occupying the entire backyard, why not use it for something more unique and creative? Outdoor movie nights are the perfect way to adorn a backyard, especially during the summer nights. You can create your outdoor backyard movie theater setup with the help of cushions, throw pillows, blankets, and some overhead string lights. Make sure to light candles or purchase lanterns that complete the entire vibe.
Have a Fountain
Water’s presence is calming to look at, and the sound of water is known to reduce stress in many ways. If you don’t desire or have a pool in your backyard for whatever reason, a fountain is a wonderful way to add Zen to your space. You can DIY a fountain with bricks and install a water system or even purchase readymade fountains that come in different shapes and designs.
Outdoor Fitness and Wellness
Pool offers the advantage of free-of-cost and fun-filled fitness activities, but who says you cannot have fun and fitness without a pool? You can have an outdoor pod with proper gym equipment setting to work in peace with a view of nature. Practicing yoga under the light sun and fresh breeze is a calming fitness activity for the backyard.
No Pool? Have a Shower
Summers in the backyard can be brutal, especially for the kids who are soaking red under the sun and are full of sweat and mud after a long day of games. In such cases, it is smart to have a system that only keeps the outdoor mess outdoors. Outdoor showers epitomize elegance and comfort in the garden. These outdoor showers come in various sizes, styles, and colors nowadays. Some outdoor showers even serve as the centerpiece of a patio in the rear!
A Fire Pit
Another backyard ideas without pool, A Fire Pit! Nothing greater embodies summer than the crackle of a campfire. If you want a patio with fire pit ideas, think about organizing the rest of your landscaping around it because they make great focus points in backyards.
10 Creative and Useful Backyard Ideas Without Pool
1. Make an Outdoor Dining Area
Creating a comfortable outdoor dining area is a great backyard idea without a pool to make use of your garden. Place a chic patio set there, complete with chairs and a table, and call it a day. Consider installing a pergola or canopy for shade and shelter, and add ornamental lightings like string lights or lanterns to set the mood. Whether you have abackyard BBQ setup or a formal dinner party, this space will be ideal.
2. Design Build in Seating
Large pieces of outdoor furniture like chairs and benches can make it difficult to move around your yard without stumbling. You may increase your outdoor gathering options without taking up any extra room by putting built-in seating around the perimeter of your deck or yard.
Adding this backyard design without a pool increases the convenience of your outdoors. Seating built into a retaining wall surrounded by plants would be a lovely spot to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and a good book on a sunny morning.
3. Add a Water Feature
A water feature may replace a pool and transform your outside space into a gorgeous sanctuary. Whether you plan to go all out with a landscape design or keep it simple with a DIY garden project, this is the best backyard oasis idea without a pool. You may enhance your landscape with chic patio ideas like waterfalls, fountains, or ponds.
4. Install a Fire Pit
A patio with fire pit ideas is a great place to gather with friends and family, as it generates heat and sets a relaxing mood. Your garden will have more character and appeal with a fire pit, whether it’s a classic stone one or a sleek contemporary one. Come together under the moon and stars to roast marshmallows over the fire, tell stories, or just relax with friends and family. This backyard design idea without a pool may serve many purposes and is a great way to bring people together while making everlasting memories.
5. Create a Garden Oasis
Create a serene garden retreat in your backyard. Include various plants, flowers, and shrubs to maximize nature’s splendor. Create paths that invite exploration and lead to secluded spots with comfortable seats. The relaxing sounds of running water can be achieved by installing water features such as fountains or ponds. You can keep your garden looking beautiful and interesting year-round by populating it with plants that bloom in different seasons. This backyard oasis without a pool will provide a sense of peace and renewal all year round.
6. Add a Gazebo
A pergola or gazebo is ideal for folks who frequently host gatherings. They’re great for chilling out during the day with friends or on warm summer nights when the house is packed with people.
Pergolas come in various styles and materials, allowing you to create a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience, best for backyard camping and get-togethers.
7. Design an Outdoor Kitchen
Build an outdoor kitchen and move your meal preparations outside. Cooking and hosting will be a snap with the help of a built-in grill, prep room, and cabinets for utensils and supplies. This backyard idea without a pool may be improved by adding a table and chairs to the area, allowing you to enjoy your meals in the fresh air. With the convenience of an outdoor kitchen, you can indulge your passion for cooking while also appreciating nature.
8. Put up a Hammock
Hammocks are great if you just want to spend time outside and, more specifically, if you want to unwind. Hammocks can be safely set up between two trees (if available) or between two sturdy posts.
9. String Up Some Lights
You can use lights to create an ambiance, increase visibility, or highlight an attractive item in your backyard, such as outdoor furniture, a fire pit, or an outdoor kitchen. These lights come in various designs, sizes, and power sources (solar or electric) and can be hung aloft, wrapped around tree trunks, or draped over bushes and hedging.
10. Construct a Play Yard
This is one of the finest backyard designs without a pool if you have young children. Include some kid-friendly play equipment like a swing set, slide, playhouse, sandbox, etc. Your children will have something to do, and hopefully, they’ll stay outside long.
Questions and Answers (FAQs)
Is it cheaper to landscape yourself?
Doing landscaping yourself can save you a lot of money, provided you have the necessary skills and equipment. You can save money on hiring a landscaping firm if you know how to do the work yourself.
How much does it cost to decorate a backyard?
The standard fee for a landscape design plan is over $4,500. On the other hand, costs can vary from $1,900 to $7,000. On the low end of the range, you should expect to pay no more than $500 to have a quarter acre of land landscaped with native plants and a stone path. At the same time, elaborate garden designs might set you back as much as $15,000 on average.
Is landscape maintenance necessary?
Remember that your landscape will require regular upkeep even after the design phase. This may involve washing a dirty patio or sidewalk, watering and cutting overgrown flowers, preparing plants for winter, etc. Maintaining your backyard regularly will increase its longevity.
Ending Note
Backyards are perfect for barbecues, games, and hanging out with friends and family. If your backyard is dull, brighten it by incorporating the above backyard ideas without a pool and enjoy your summers.
