Quarantine Chronicles: Summer Rising

Welcome to Summer everyone! It’s definitely not the best intro into it and personally I am finding more peace at home despite the chaos on the outside. I mowed the lawn yesterday. I have quite a sizable treeless yard. I sat back on my small porch, looked out to my domain, and thought —now what? I have this outdoor space that is basically empty and since my pool is officially closed for Summer, what the hell am I gonna do to get my solar vitamin D?

Since most pools, including mine, are either going out of business or closed for the year, I am thinking real hard in investing in some sort of aqua relief. There’s also way too much green back here! So, maybe I’ll plant some vivid marigolds and zinnias. I also have a porch just dying for some pretty sun blocking drapes. It truly doesn’t have to take too much time or money to spruce up your backyard.

We are all trying to manage our money wisely at this time, but we also want to be able to enjoy the upcoming Summer months. It will also give you yet another project to work on whilst being homebound.

DIY DECKS/PATIOS

I don’t have a deck, but I’m seriously considering making this. It’s amazing what a little elevation can bring to a yard and even add resale value to it. It is also a perfect space to create something warm and relaxing.

Build This at Home Depot

I kind of love this. It’s simple, yet enticing.

Pallet Decks

Probably the most easily constructed and inexpensive instadeck!

Pea Gravel

You don’t have to spend a ton of money to have a nice clean space to lounge in. Pea gravel is inexpensive and virtually a simple install.

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You can always buy inexpensive Stone Pavers for an easy install under $500.

OUTDOOR SEATING: TIRES

I’m amazed at how easy it is to utilize recycled tires. So many options! From planters to chairs to traditional tree swings, tires can create colorful and comfortable backyard options.

Whether I’m basking, sipping, or lounging, outdoor seating is a must for ultimate backyard hanging. Not only is it affordable to make, but they are easy to move around a yard, you can stack them for height, and you can make some pretty spectacular interchangeable cushions from chic to casual.

COLOR

Adding color to a backyard is easy. You’ll want to stay out there longer if you have some nice vibrant colors to enhance your outdoor time. Add a rug for some texture. Paint some planters. Paint some of your fence and/or pavers. Add a beautiful fabric to your pergola or canopy. You’ll be surprised at the effect.

Rugs

Add a nice outdoor rug to your patio or deck for added texture and color. Wayfair has tons to choose from and lots of discounts!

Decorative Pillows

A very simple way to spruce up your patio furniture is to simply add some lively decorative pillows. World Market has some nice deals and patterns.

Stencilling Pavers

This is a very cool and refreshing idea. You can add stenciled patterns to otherwise ordinary pavers. You can find some very nice ones on Etsy.

Colorful Drapes

Colorful and patterned drapes/curtains on any pergola or porch will not only give you privacy and shade you from the sun, but will brighten your backyard for sure!

SCREENS

I love this idea for added privacy and shade. From recycled window shutters to pallets to organic bamboo, these screens will add that extra oomph to your rear end.

Cool and Modern

Add plants or paint for dramatic effect.

Recycled

This idea is fantastic. Find an architectural salvage yard and get you some old shutters. Bring them back to life with a little paint and voila!

Decorative

Choose decorative metal, wood, vinyl screens.

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LIGHTS

Just because the sun goes down, doesn’t mean the outdoor hang is over. Lighting is just as important as any other outdoor decor. Check these cool ideas to lighten up the mood.