Depending on the scale of your project, you’ll probably want to hire a professional. Whether you do or not, though; there are some tips for the process:

• Start with a purpose. What purpose does your backyard serve? Do you want it to be an open space for your children to play? An area to entertain? Barbecue? Knowing how you want to use the space will help narrow down the next step:

• Make a vision. Gather some ideas that match with the purpose and jot them down, take a picture, or draw a sketch. Even if you’re working with a professional, having this kind of references is a big help. 

• Details matter. The layout of your yard and the features within it will give it a certain feeling, just like the design on the inside of your house. You’ll want to include features like gazebos, statues, arbors, etc. to make it feel welcoming and balanced.

• Choose the right greenery. You might need some help on this! Choose the plants for your yard based on both how they look and how hard they are to take care of. If you’re not exactly a green thumb, you don’t want any plants that need long-term, frequent maintenance!

• Try lighting. Do you want to be able to sit in your yard at night and chat, entertain, or just relax? Lighting can go a long way in making it a functional evening space as well as giving it an entirely new mood.

What will you do in your yard? Are you inspired?