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Trendey • Outdoor Space • Backyards • 12 Ideas for Creating an Outdoor Backyard Oasis

12 Ideas for Creating an Outdoor Backyard Oasis

12 Ideas for Creating an Outdoor Backyard Oasis

  • by — Kendrick Hulse
  • Published on May 17, 2021

  • Updated on February 20, 2025

It’s easy to feel like we have nowhere to relax after a long day at work or running errands.

If that sounds like your day-to-day experience, a backyard oasis might just be the perfect landscaping project for your home.

What is a backyard oasis? It’s a private, tranquil outdoor space of your very own. And all it takes is a little planning to transform any backyard into a luxurious getaway.

If you’re ready to prioritize “me time” and give your yard a new purpose, keep reading for our favorite backyard oasis ideas you can try for yourself.

1. Set up a Backyard Fire Pit

Transform your backyard into a warm, inviting space with a fire pit. Select a style that complements your outdoor decor, whether it’s a rustic stone circle or a sleek, modern metal design. Position it as a focal point and surround it with comfortable seating. This setup not only adds a cozy ambiance but also extends your outdoor gatherings into the cooler evenings.

Lush green backyard with wooden benches around a stone fire pit, a white fence, stacked firewood, and tall trees in the background
Source: @coramayday via Instagram
Backyard patio with string lights, outdoor furniture, fire pit, and lawn chairs on grass; house with sliding glass door at dusk
Source: @jenstumps via Instagram
Cozy outdoor patio with a circular fire pit, Adirondack chairs, string lights, torches, pumpkins, and ferns, surrounded by a white fence
Source: @jocelyn_jujess via Instagram
Backyard patio with Adirondack chairs around a stone fire pit, surrounded by colorful foliage and a succulent planter in the foreground
Source: @lieu.s via Instagram
Backyard with teal chairs, fire pit, small pool, plants, and patio set under a green umbrella
Source: @mayfair__modern via Instagram

2. Build a Privacy Fence

A privacy fence is crucial for creating a secluded backyard haven. Choose materials like cedar or bamboo for a natural look, or go for vinyl or composite for low maintenance. A fence height of at least six feet ensures privacy, while adding lattice or horizontal slats can introduce a decorative touch. This barrier not only secures your space but also serves as a backdrop for outdoor decor.

Cozy patio with a sectional sofa, red and white pillows, potted plants, and two lanterns on a coffee table, surrounded by wooden fencing
Source: @erleen.rae via Instagram
Patio with wicker furniture, white cushions, a square table, umbrella, and string lights set against a wooden privacy screen
Source: @secondstreetkate via Instagram
Cozy patio with a stone fireplace, pumpkins, potted plants, and blue cushioned wooden chairs around a striped rug
Source: @sugar.oak.design via Instagram

3. Incorporate Plants and Greenery

Infuse life and color into your backyard with a variety of plants and greenery. Choose native plants for low maintenance and sustainability. Arrange them in clusters for visual impact, mixing heights and textures. Don’t forget to include some aromatic herbs or flowering plants to add sensory pleasure to your outdoor oasis.

Cozy patio with wooden chairs, a small round table, plants, and string lights; decor includes a woven wall hanging and striped rug
Source: @haus.of.kerr via Instagram
Cozy outdoor patio with gray sofas, a round coffee table, patterned rug, plants, and string lights under leafy trees
Source: @alluredecoronline via Instagram
Outdoor patio with blue sectional sofa, table, teal umbrella, and plants. A book and hat rest on the sofa. String lights overhead
Source: @vlwentzel via Instagram

4. Add a Stock Tank Plunge Pool

For a refreshing retreat, consider a stock tank plunge pool. It’s a cost-effective and chic alternative to traditional pools. Choose a galvanized tank for a rustic touch or paint it to match your outdoor theme. Place it in a sunny spot, add some deck chairs, and enjoy a cool dip on hot days.

Small backyard with a round pool, umbrella, and potted plants on gravel, grass in the foreground and a house wall in the background
Source: @stayathomewithchelsea via Instagram
Round above-ground pool with wooden steps, a surfboard, striped umbrella, and patterned pillows, surrounded by greenery
Source: @houseofbutterfield via Instagram

5. Build a Backyard Deck Patio

A deck patio elevates your outdoor space both literally and figuratively. Use materials like natural wood or composite decking for durability and style. Design the deck with levels to define different areas for dining, lounging, and cooking. Proper lighting and a few potted plants will make your deck patio the highlight of your home.

Sunny deck with two chairs, a red umbrella, a hammock, and potted plants. A white fence and trees are in the background
Source: @erleen.rae via Instagram
Cozy backyard with patio furniture, string lights, and a black raised deck; white house in the background with dark trim windows
Source: @heidi_prahl via Instagram
Spacious backyard with gray decking, white and gray patio furniture, turquoise chairs, a swing set, and green trees in the background
Source: @maxinemanniondesign via Instagram
Spacious wooden deck with a long dining table, cushioned chairs, lounge seating area, and surrounding greenery
Source: @mcdonnellprocontracting via Instagram
Outdoor patio with a pergola, dining tables, flowers, and a modern fireplace surrounded by greenery on a sunny day
Source: @mosher_design via Instagram

6. Create a Cozy Outdoor Oasis with a Modern Gas Fire Pit

Imagine a chic, contemporary space with a modern gas fire pit as its centerpiece. Select a sleek, minimalist design that doubles as a statement piece. Gas fire pits offer ease of use and clean burning, perfect for urban backyards. Surround it with plush seating and ambient lighting for a sophisticated, yet cozy atmosphere.

Outdoor patio with a fire pit surrounded by four cushioned chairs on a concrete slab, with string lights hanging overhead
Source: @caitinthecommons via Instagram
Cozy patio with armchairs and a sofa around a lit fire pit, string lights above, and an illuminated umbrella at dusk
Source: @taradobrecdesigns via Instagram
Night patio scene with a lit fire table surrounded by cushioned wicker sofas. A large umbrella is illuminated above, creating a cozy ambiance
Source: @frankfordshade via Instagram
Outdoor patio with a fire pit, cushioned chairs, dining table with umbrella, and string lights on fence, surrounded by plants
Source: @thatfunkymonkeysb via Instagram
Cozy patio with a fire pit, surrounded by flowers and greenery, leading to a warmly lit house with large windows at dusk
Source: @thestonemanrocks via Instagram
Cozy outdoor patio with beige furniture, a fire pit, striped pillows, and a soft rug; lanterns and blankets add warmth
Source: @the_cozycasa via Instagram

7. Install Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers offer a versatile way to upgrade your backyard. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing for creative patterns and designs. Use them for pathways, patios, or even as stepping stones through a grassy area. They’re durable, easy to maintain, and add a structured, yet elegant look to your outdoor space.

Aerial view of a patio with wooden furniture, two cushioned chairs, a blue round ottoman, and lush plants surrounding the space
Source: @earthandsole via Instagram
A cozy backyard with a lit patio, table, chairs, umbrella, and wooden shed, surrounded by plants, photographed at dusk
Source: @earthscape_ via Instagram
Cozy patio with wicker furniture, cushions, a hanging chair, an umbrella, colorful pots, and lanterns on a stone floor
Source: @fourcornersinteriors via Instagram

8. Build a Brick Patio

A brick patio offers a timeless and classic appeal to your backyard. Choose bricks that complement your home’s exterior and consider laying them in unique patterns like herringbone or basket weave for added visual interest. Ensure proper ground preparation with a solid base to prevent shifting and settling. This type of patio is not only durable and low maintenance but also adds a warm, inviting touch to your outdoor space, perfect for gatherings or quiet relaxation.

Brick patio with wicker furniture, dining table, umbrella, and potted plants on a paved area surrounded by a white fence
Source: @thefontaineflat via Instagram
Sunny brick patio with a table, chairs, and a large umbrella on a patterned rug. Surrounded by plants, white fence, and neighboring houses
Source: @casacoluch via Instagram

9. Create Outdoor Seating Area for Two

Design an intimate seating area for two, perfect for quiet conversations or enjoying a morning coffee. Choose a charming bistro set or a pair of comfortable lounge chairs. Position this nook in a scenic spot of your garden, perhaps shaded by a tree or overlooking a flower bed, to make these moments truly special.

A cozy wooden cabin with a small deck, surrounded by lush greenery and trees, with two chairs and a grill in the garden area
Source: @illuminateelectric via Instagram
Cozy patio with string lights, a small table and chairs, potted plants, and an air conditioning unit against a white siding house
Source: @lisa_in_va via Instagram

10. Landscape Your Area

Good landscaping can transform your backyard into a picturesque retreat. Start with a well-thought-out design that balances open spaces with planted areas. Use a mix of shrubs, perennials, and annuals to create year-round interest. Remember, the key is to create a harmonious and sustainable environment that reflects your personal style.

Garden with a patio set surrounded by lush greenery, trees, and ornamental grasses, with a wooden fence and blue paneling providing a backdrop
Source: @tibor_kiss_studio via Instagram

11. Cover With a Pergola

A pergola not only adds shade but also brings an architectural element to your backyard. Select materials that blend with your home’s exterior – be it natural wood or modern metal. Train climbing plants over it for a natural canopy, or add a retractable cover for adjustable shading. This structure creates a perfect outdoor room for dining or relaxing.

A wooden pergola with a dining table and chairs underneath, surrounded by greenery and colorful potted flowers on a sunny day
Source: @touchofeleganceinteriors via Instagram
Two-story house with patio lights and seating area. Wooden pergola and string lights illuminate the backyard at dusk
Source: @treesideliving via Instagram
A pergola with string lights covers Adirondack chairs and folding chairs around a fire pit on gravel, with a wooden fence in the background
Source: @_ben.smith___ via Instagram
Outdoor patio with a white pergola, wicker chairs, black outdoor fireplace, loveseat, potted plant, on a concrete slab with grass
Source: @alisa.dugan via Instagram
Outdoor patio with string lights, red-striped sofas, and a wooden pergola with curtains. A potted plant sits beside the seating area
Source: @d_bomb43 via Instagram
Cozy patio with a fire pit, seating, string lights, and a pergola, decorated with pillows, a red blanket, and fall-themed accents
Source: @shiplapshanty via Instagram
A cozy outdoor seating area with wicker furniture under a wooden pergola, featuring a stone fireplace and lush greenery in the background
Source: @stonecorejax via Instagram
Patio with red-cushioned loungers, wooden swing, colorful pillows, potted plants, and wooden fence on a tiled floor
Source: @allieshouse via Instagram

12. Maintain Your Grass Lawn

A lush, green lawn is the foundation of a beautiful backyard oasis. Regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing are essential for its upkeep. Consider aerating your lawn annually for healthy growth and overseeding to fill in bare spots. A well-maintained lawn serves as a vibrant base for your backyard paradise.

Backyard with artificial turf, patio seating, parasols, a soccer goal, and a wood fence; trees are in the background
Source: @paversandturf via Instagram
Outdoor garden with two cushioned chairs, a wicker table, and potted plants. Green lawn and trees in the background
Source: @ryinhomesweethome via Instagram

FAQs

What is the best furniture for a backyard oasis?

Patio furniture is the best option for a long-lasting outdoor living room. While you don’t need to stick with traditional silhouettes (like a wicker sofa or Adirondack chair), you should invest in furniture that is designed for outdoor use.

Even accessories like an outdoor rug and throw pillows should be weather-safe. Upholstery meant for indoor use will quickly fade if left outside. It may also be more prone to mildew or mold if allowed to get damp.

How do I design a tropical backyard retreat?

If you want your backyard to feel like a tropical escape, it’s important to choose the right landscape plants. Many types of ferns and palms are hardy even in cooler climates — it’s all about finding the right species for your area.

Use large planters for tropical plants like hibiscus and bromeliads that need to be brought in during the winter months. Containers are also an excellent solution for decorating a tropical terrace or backyard patio.

Keep your outdoor furniture and decor warm and bright. You can even incorporate tropical-inspired items like tiki torches if desired.

Kendrick Hulse

Writer

Kendrick holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Wisconsin. She has written professionally for five years and specializes in home and garden design, with past experience working in the residential gardening industry.

Kendrick holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Wisconsin. She has written professionally for five years and specializes in home and garden design, with past experience working in the residential gardening industry.

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