Make your Backyard a Staycation
For many homeowners, especially those whose kids have grown and flown the nest, the idea of turning the backyard into a personal retreat is more than just practical — it’s deeply rewarding. Creating a staycation space isn’t about giving up travel; it’s about choosing comfort, convenience, and lasting value right at home. With the right touches, your backyard can feel like a high-end getaway, no plane ticket required.
Here are 7 inspiring ways to transform your backyard into the ultimate staycation destination:
1. Build a Lux Cabana or Pavilion:
Use natural wood, draped fabric or bamboo for a tropical look. Fabrics mimic the feel of a high-end resort with comfort, shade and privacy. Pavilions act as a stylish, multifunctional hub for entertaining, lounging or dining. Add Built-in seating, a ceiling fan or a mini-fridge for extra comfort. Consider privacy screens or curtains (outdoor fabric preferably) for a true resort vibe.
PRO - Tip: Outdoor permanent or semi-permanent structures can add curb appeal and increase resale value!
2. Add a Soothing Water Feature:
Whether it's a small fountain, waterfall, or bubbling garden pond, this element helps recreate the calming atmosphere of a high-end vacation. Modern fountains with LED lighting are great too. Naturalistic pond-less waterfalls. Or wall-mounted or built-in pool waterfalls are a must in smaller spaces! Not to mention the water promotes mindfulness and meditation. Helps the brain shift to a relaxed, parasympathetic state.
PRO - Tip: Water features encourage spending more time in nature--- a powerful mood booster!
3. Upgrade to a Spa-Like Hot Tub or Plunge Pool:
By selecting a full-size hot tub or a compact one for a smaller space you won’t need to empty your bank account to create something fun and relaxing. A huge advantage of tighter spaces, you can surround yourself with smaller structures with natural stone. It will enhance the outdoors by mimicking a long getaway. Don’t forget to fill the empty spaces with lush plants and flowers.
PRO Tip: Add outdoor, ambient lighting to create a true oasis.
4. Create an Outdoor Dining Experience:
Convenience is everything when it comes to a staycation. Let’s begin with a built-in grill or a pizza oven. Having the ability to stay outside for food and beverages makes for effortless entertaining. A covered dining area is a must to keep the elements at bay. Create an outdoor bar with a seating area with a beverage station for easy access.
PRO Tip: Don’t forget the lighting, plants and flowers for a more lush feel.
5. Use Natural Materials for a High-End Look:
By using natural materials— preferably element proof, can be used to enhance the outdoor experience even more! Have teak or composite wood decking as the choice to connect the outdoors to the indoors. Use stone accents (real or faux) on columns, fire pits, or playsets safe for children. Create intimate seating with woven materials or rattan furniture with plush cushions is a perfect way to bring the feeling of exotic destinations back home.
PRO Tip: Place lanterns with citronella candles everywhere to help repel unwanted guests.
6. Add a Fire Feature for Evening Ambiance:
Let’s not forget the fire element for your outdoor experience. May it be a gas or wood-burning, nothing says summer nights and smores like a fire-pit! If you have the space and the investment create a built-in fireplace!! It’s a feature that can be enjoyed all year round! Let’s not forget outdoor spaces with a smaller square footage—I would recommend using fire bowls or create a safe way to bring a fire-feature table top style! Do your research.
PRO Tip: Store pillows and blankets nearby for when extra cozziness is requested!
7. Landscape Like a Tropical Retreat:
Modern fountains with LED lighting can be large or small— ideal for the water sounds found in nature. Vertical hanging or naturalistic pond-less waterfalls are perfect for those lacking in space. If you have a pool, you can add shooting water sprays or built-in Waterfalls with a touch of a button. When selecting plants, make sure you speak with a landscape architect to ensure you select outdoor plants that fit your lifestyle. This is a great opportunity to add in color, texture and layers to the outdoors
PRO Tip: Installing up-light to the landscape can really enhance the tropical feel!