10 Things Interior Decoraters Say They’d Like To Have In Their Backyard (And 5 They Love The Most)
Interior decorators know that great design doesn’t stop at the back door. The most inviting outdoor spaces feel like a natural extension of the home – thoughtful, stylish, and ready to be enjoyed.
So what do the pros secretly wish for in their own backyards? Turns out, it’s a mix of timeless comforts and standout features that elevate outdoor living.
These are the 10 things decorators say they’d love to have in their backyard, plus 5 favorites they already can’t live without.
1. Statement Lounge Seating
Forget those flimsy plastic chairs! Decorators insist that comfortable, stylish seating makes or breaks an outdoor space. Think oversized sectionals with plush, weather-resistant cushions in bold patterns or serene neutrals.
Modular pieces win extra points for flexibility when entertaining groups of different sizes. The secret lies in treating outdoor furniture with the same importance as indoor pieces – considering scale, comfort, and visual impact rather than settling for whatever’s on sale at the big box store.
2. Al Fresco Dining Area
Breaking bread under blue skies transforms ordinary meals into memorable experiences. Decorators prioritize dedicated dining spaces with substantial tables that welcome lingering conversations.
Weather-resistant chairs that actually feel good to sit in (not just look pretty) make the difference between quick meals and leisurely dining experiences. Many pros suggest positioning dining areas close to the house for practical food transportation, while ensuring the space feels like a destination in its own right.
3. Magical String Lights
Strands of twinkling bulbs transform ordinary backyards into enchanted evening retreats. Professional decorators understand that lighting creates atmosphere more effectively than almost any other element.
Commercial-grade string lights withstand weather better than holiday varieties, providing years of ambient illumination. Zigzagging patterns create a ceiling effect that makes outdoor spaces feel more intimate and defined. Even the most modest patio becomes magical when the sun sets and these lights begin their gentle glow.
4. Winding Garden Pathway
Meandering through greenery on a thoughtfully designed path creates moments of discovery that interior decorators adore. Materials matter tremendously – from irregular bluestone pavers to crushed granite or even wood rounds set in gravel.
The journey becomes as important as the destination when paths curve gently, revealing new perspectives with each step. Professional designers often incorporate fragrant plants along edges to release scents when brushed against, engaging multiple senses as you move through the space.
5. Clever Built-In Seating
Maximizing every inch of outdoor space, decorators dream of custom benches that follow the contours of gardens or decks. These architectural elements create permanent, maintenance-free seating that feels integrated with the landscape.
Stone walls capped with smooth seating surfaces offer both boundary definition and casual perching spots. The smartest designs incorporate hidden storage beneath hinged lids, solving the eternal problem of where to stash cushions, garden tools, or pool toys when not in use.
6. Sheltered Covered Patio
When unexpected showers threaten to ruin outdoor plans, design professionals appreciate the security of a permanent roof structure. Unlike temporary solutions, a proper covered patio extends outdoor living regardless of weather conditions.
The most coveted versions feature ceiling fans for summer comfort, integrated lighting for evening enjoyment, and even outdoor-rated televisions or sound systems. This transitional space bridges indoor and outdoor living, functioning essentially as an open-air room that remains usable three or four seasons of the year.
7. Stylish Bar Cart
Rolling refreshments into the sunshine elevates everyday outdoor moments. Interior decorators favor vintage bar carts repurposed with weather-resistant finishes or modern versions specifically designed for outdoor use.
The ideal cart balances function with style – offering space for bottles, glasses, and accessories while looking beautiful enough to serve as a decorative element. During parties, it becomes a self-service station; on quiet evenings, it transforms into a side table for books and beverages.
8. Dreamy Hammock Haven
Swaying gently between two mature trees, a quality hammock represents the ultimate backyard luxury for busy design professionals. Unlike rigid furniture, hammocks conform perfectly to the body, creating unmatched comfort for afternoon naps or stargazing sessions.
Today’s versions range from traditional rope styles to sleek, modern spreader bar designs with weather-resistant fabrics. The most Instagram-worthy setups include nearby side tables for books and drinks, plus soft pillows and throws for those slightly cooler evenings.
9. Productive Raised Garden Beds
Fresh herbs just steps from the kitchen door represent the perfect marriage of beauty and function. Decorators appreciate the clean lines and organization that raised beds bring to kitchen gardens.
Cedar, metal, or composite materials create durable frameworks that elevate plants for easier tending without backaches. The most photogenic versions feature geometric layouts with clear pathways between beds. Even when winter arrives, these architectural elements provide structure and visual interest to otherwise dormant gardens.
10. Bold Outdoor Rug
Just as they do indoors, decorators use textiles to define spaces and add personality outdoors. Weather-resistant rugs in vivid patterns instantly create an outdoor room, visually anchoring furniture groupings on patios and decks.
Materials have improved dramatically in recent years, with recycled plastic versions offering the look and feel of natural fibers while standing up to sun, rain, and heavy foot traffic. The best designs incorporate colors from the surrounding landscape while adding unexpected pops of contrasting hues.
1. Living Green Wall
Vertical gardens transform ordinary fences or blank walls into lush, living tapestries. Design professionals covet these space-saving installations for their ability to add greenery without sacrificing precious floor area.
Modern systems feature modular panels with built-in irrigation, making maintenance surprisingly manageable. The plant palette can range from flowering perennials to edible herbs or even strawberries cascading downward. Beyond beauty, these verdant walls provide natural cooling effects and create habitat for beneficial insects and birds.
2. Soothing Water Feature
Ask a decorator about their dream backyard and watch their eyes light up describing the gentle sound of flowing water. From dramatic multi-tiered fountains to simple bubbling urns, water features add that magical sensory element that transforms a space.
Beyond aesthetics, the acoustic masking effect helps block neighborhood noise, creating a private oasis. Smart designers incorporate self-contained systems with minimal maintenance requirements, ensuring the feature remains a joy rather than becoming another weekend chore.
3. Tranquil Meditation Corner
Amidst busy design careers, professionals crave dedicated spaces for mindfulness and reflection. A secluded nook with comfortable seating, perhaps partially enclosed by tall grasses or bamboo, creates a private retreat within the larger landscape.
Sound elements like wind chimes or small water features enhance the meditative atmosphere. The most successful versions incorporate elements of Japanese garden design – simplicity, restraint, and careful attention to the relationship between objects and empty space.
4. Pergola Paradise
Imagine the dappled sunlight filtering through wooden slats overhead while you lounge in perfect comfort. For designers, a pergola represents that sweet spot between architecture and nature.
Whether draped with climbing vines or fitted with a retractable canopy, these structures define outdoor rooms without walls. Smart decorators opt for weather-resistant materials like cedar or aluminum that maintain their beauty through seasons of sun, rain, and snow.
5. Crackling Fire Pit
When the conversation flows as freely as the wine, you’ll find design professionals gathered around dancing flames. A well-designed fire pit extends outdoor living long after summer has faded.
Some prefer the rustic charm of stacked stone, while others lean toward sleek, modern gas versions with glass beads. What matters is creating that magnetic centerpiece that draws people together, sparks stories, and keeps the marshmallows toasting until the stars come out.
