Backyard Oasis Revealed: From Chaos to Tranquility – Our Outdoor Living Space Transformation
Hello, dear readers and design enthusiasts! It feels like an eternity since we last connected, and what an extraordinary, unpredictable journey the past few months have been. Life threw a curveball with unexpected challenges – from navigating the complexities of the global pandemic and becoming an overnight homeschooling parent to supporting our senior daughter through the emotional loss of her anticipated final year of high school memories. Amidst this whirlwind, my sister received military orders to California, prompting her move right here, around the corner from me, mid-renovation! Temporarily, she joined our household, and now I’ve embarked on the exciting (and slightly daunting) task of designing her entire new home, which is essentially a blank canvas.
Reflecting on this period, it truly felt like living in one long, winding, grammatically incorrect sentence – a testament to the beautiful chaos that defined 2020. However, through all the unforeseen detours, one dream remained vibrant: the transformation of our backyard. While I couldn’t chronicle every single step of the process here on the blog as initially planned, I extensively documented our backyard’s journey on Instagram. You can explore a wealth of highlights there, witnessing the space come alive, bit by bit, from its humble beginnings to its grand finale.
The final touches took a little longer than anticipated; something just felt incomplete, holding back its debut. But now, after immense dedication and countless hours, I’m thrilled to announce that our outdoor sanctuary is officially ready! Today, I’m beyond excited to pull back the curtain and share every delightful detail of this deeply personal and wonderfully functional space. So, without further ado, prepare to be inspired by our backyard oasis.
A Dramatic Before & After: Witnessing the Transformation
To truly appreciate the scope of this transformation, let’s take a moment to recall the “before.” For years, our backyard was a functional but uninspired space. It lacked the charm, purpose, and flow we desperately desired. Recalling its initial state helps highlight the significant journey we’ve undertaken to reach this point. Before we dive into the stunning reveal, let’s revisit where we began, painting a clear picture of the canvas we started with.
You can see the initial state and our starting point for the ORC here, where the vision for this ambitious project first began to take shape.
And now, prepare to be amazed as we unveil the stunning transformation. This is what years of dreaming, months of planning, and weeks of relentless hard work look like when brought to life.
The Heart of the Home: Crafting an Expansive Outdoor Living Space
Honestly, it’s hard to pinpoint where to begin describing this incredible transformation. This space has been a true labor of immense love, quite literally. While we brought in professionals for the foundational deck build, my husband and I poured our hearts (and a lot of sweat and tears!) into nearly every other aspect. We proudly DIY’d the intricate paver and pea gravel patio, designed and constructed the striking pergola, and meticulously stained the expansive deck. This project pushed our limits, both physically and financially, but seeing the final result makes every tired muscle and penny spent unequivocally worth it.
Our approach to this renovation was radical: we essentially cleared the space down to its core, treating it like an interior remodel where we stripped everything back to the “studs” to start fresh. The sole survivor of this extensive overhaul was our magnificent sycamore tree, which truly stands as the crown jewel of our entire yard. From the very first moment we toured this house, captivated by its grandeur, I envisioned creating a vibrant, inviting entertainment area beneath its sprawling canopy. I could almost see delicate lanterns swaying from its branches and intimate dinners unfolding under its natural, sheltering embrace.
Designing for Flow and Ambiance: Blurring Indoors and Outdoors
We are incredibly fortunate to have a generous amount of space to work with, which allowed for ambitious design possibilities. When planning this outdoor haven, my primary goal was to segment it into three distinct, yet harmoniously connected, zones: an inviting upper lounge area, a versatile lower patio area, and a spacious dining area. To facilitate a natural and seamless flow between these zones, I designed the deck in an L-shape, ensuring each segment felt purposeful and accessible.
Aesthetically, I pursued two key objectives. Firstly, I wanted to profoundly blur the lines between our home’s interior and exterior, creating a feeling that the outdoor space was a genuine extension of our indoor living. Secondly, I aimed for an immersive experience – to transport anyone stepping into the backyard to an exclusive resort, far removed from the typical urban backyard setting in America. I specifically wanted to avoid the sensation of merely “stepping outside”; instead, the transition from inside to out had to feel effortless and integrated.
This design philosophy guided several critical choices, including the transformation of the deck. Instead of traditional, light-toned deck boards, I opted for a rich, chocolaty hue. This deep, sophisticated color was carefully selected to emulate the warmth and elegance of dark wood-stained interior floors, rather than the more common redwood decking. For this, I utilized Super Deck by Sherwin-Williams, specifically their semi-solid formula in the beautiful shade of Chestnut. The choice of this stain was pivotal in achieving the desired interior-like warmth and sophistication. Stay tuned for a dedicated blog post detailing the entire deck staining process, sharing all our tips and tricks!
This newly designed deck alone added approximately 500 square feet of truly livable space to our home, making it feel significantly larger and more accommodating. To further enhance the seamless indoor-outdoor transition, I meticulously selected furniture and accessories that possess the versatility and aesthetic appeal suitable for both interior and exterior environments. You won’t find anything here that screams “outdoor furniture”; instead, each piece could easily grace an elegant living room, reinforcing the illusion of a continuous, sophisticated living experience.
The Upper Lounge Area: A Private Retreat
This particular zone was designed with a very special purpose: to create a tranquil retreat specifically for Naomi and me. Our bedroom opens directly onto this area through a set of elegant French doors, and from the moment I first saw it, I envisioned a dedicated spot where we could enjoy our morning coffee or tea, soak in the peaceful start to the day, and unwind together in the evenings. Of all the elements in this extensive build, this upper lounge might just be my absolute favorite area, truly embodying the essence of relaxation and personal connection.
Luxurious Comfort with Stori Modern
Friends, let’s take a moment to truly appreciate this furniture! It is, without exaggeration, absolutely AMAAAAZZZZZIIIING. Initially, I had considered classic chaise lounges for this space, but the moment I laid eyes on these exquisite Novel lounge chairs and coordinating ottomans from Stori Modern, it was love at first sight. Stori Modern graciously sponsored this portion of our makeover, providing these stunning pieces, and I genuinely struggle to find words adequate enough to describe their fabulousness. They are beyond spectacular.
Beyond their undeniable gorgeousness, these chairs offer incredible comfort. They come in a variety of finish options, and I carefully selected the Beige weave for the frames, perfectly complemented by Sailcloth Salt for the cushions. My aim was a sophisticated, tone-on-tone aesthetic, avoiding the starkness of pure white on white. The result is a beautiful contrast against the dark-stained deck, achieving the elegant, resort-like feel I envisioned.
The cushions are crafted from high-performance Sunbrella fabric, making them virtually indestructible and supremely weather-resistant. They can withstand rain, be power-washed, survive dirt, prolonged sun exposure, even the playful trampling of a Great Dane – and still clean up effortlessly, looking as good as new. The covers are even machine washable, a massive convenience! The bases feature all-weather HDPE wicker slats, meticulously hand-woven onto a tubular aluminum frame. This construction ensures they are robust and solid, yet surprisingly lightweight, making them easy to reposition as needed. While they represent an investment, their unparalleled quality and durability make them worth every single penny. We’ve put them through rigorous testing, and they unequivocally receive my highest seal of approval; I would purchase them again in a heartbeat.
The Perfect Companion: Leisure Made Side Table
To complete this elegant setup, I paired the Stori Modern lounges with the most amazing side table from Leisure Made. Samantha, the owner, and I have shared a connection as internet and blog friends for years, so I was absolutely thrilled to finally incorporate some of her beautifully designed furniture into our home. These exquisite tables were also generously sponsored for our makeover.
Let me tell you, this side table is a masterpiece! It’s hand-cast concrete, and photos simply do not do it justice – the texture and craftsmanship are truly exceptional. I was so impressed that I also acquired the coffee table version for our patio lounge area, and let me tell you, it’s an absolute showstopper!
Having this dedicated space directly off our bedroom is a genuine daily treat. The first thing I do each morning is throw open the French doors, stepping into the quiet stillness of the day. The gentle morning light that bathes this area is particularly beautiful, creating an ethereal glow. It has swiftly become my favorite daily ritual, a peaceful moment of contemplation and connection with nature right outside our door.
The Dining Area: Our Grand Entertaining Hub
Ah, the dining zone – this area was a truly significant undertaking for me, envisioned as the centerpiece of our entire backyard makeover. Those of you who have followed my journey for a while know that our indoor dining room has always been my least favorite space in our house. It’s the one area where the impact of downsizing was most acutely felt. In our previous home, we enjoyed two very large dining areas, including a spacious kitchen nook that comfortably seated 8-10 people. This house, however, features a tiny dining space capable of seating only four!
As someone who absolutely loves to entertain, losing that ample dining capacity was a challenging aspect of our downsizing journey. So, when designing the deck, my unwavering goal was to create a generously sized outdoor dining area that could accommodate a minimum of 12 people. I also vividly pictured a grand, black pergola adorned with flowering vines, providing both shade and a stunning visual element. The reality has far exceeded my dreams, and I couldn’t be happier with how this space materialized! We documented the entire pergola build process over on Instagram, saving it all in a highlight, so be sure to check that out if you’re curious about the DIY details. For the pergola’s striking finish, I used Sherwin-Williams’ Tricorn Black, applied with their robust Emerald exterior paint formula, ensuring its durability and sophisticated look.
Creative Seating Solutions for Large Gatherings
Do you know how challenging it is to find an outdoor dining table large enough to comfortably seat 10 to 12 people without breaking the bank? It’s far from easy! My solution was to creatively purchase two 6-8 person tables and push them together to form one magnificent, expansive dining surface. This ingenious approach worked out perfectly! I chose the beautiful Sevilla dining tables from World Market, acquiring them during their fantastic 40% off outdoor sale at the beginning of spring. To complement these, we also purchased the coordinating Sevilla benches for one side, adding a casual yet stylish touch. And while I was at it (because, why not, right?), I also invested in the delightful tassel outdoor rugs and elegant rattan captains chairs to complete the aesthetic. I absolutely adore the combination of the lighter white-washed wood furniture paired with the crisp white chairs; it creates a fresh, inviting, and sophisticated ambiance.
For the additional seating at the dining table, I selected the sleek Dot chair from Article. Article generously provided these chairs as a brand sponsor for the makeover, alongside the sectionals for our patio lounge area. Initially, I had used some IKEA chairs we already owned in this dining area, and while they looked aesthetically pleasing, they proved to be too low and ultimately impractical for comfortable dining. The Article Dot chairs were the perfect replacement, and we couldn’t be happier with them. They are exceptionally comfortable, remarkably affordable, available in a fantastic array of colors, and designed to stack easily for convenient storage. Crucially, they are also entirely weather-proof, making them ideal for outdoor use, and their minimalist design adds a contemporary flair to the space.
Illuminating Ambiance: The Power of Outdoor Lighting
Whenever anyone asks me where they should allocate their budget for refreshing a space, my answer is unwavering and consistent: ALWAYS lighting, lighting, LIGHTING! Lighting has an unparalleled ability to either make or break an environment, and I firmly believe in going big or going home when it comes to illumination. Whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, lighting is incredibly versatile and often the very first element you should reassess if you feel your space is lacking something. More often than not, the solution lies in thoughtfully chosen and strategically placed lighting.
I was determined to make a bold statement with the lighting in our dining area, which led me to the idea of hanging an eclectic collection of rattan pendants and lanterns above the table. I began with two of these really substantial pendants from IKEA. My wonderful bestie, Carmeon, encouraged me to push the concept even further, urging me to embrace a multitude of lanterns rather than just the initial pair! I am incredibly grateful she pushed me, because this layered lighting situation is absolutely EVERYTHING. I then decided to incorporate some of the smaller IKEA pendants, artfully layering them with a couple of fabulous natural pendants from World Market. Then, a stroke of memory: I recalled a pair of stunning rattan lanterns stored in the garage, treasures from one of my all-time favorite shops, Tierra Del Lagarto. I had been patiently waiting for the perfect setting for them, and this was undeniably it! To further enhance the global, curated feel, I also integrated a gorgeous metal Moroccan lantern from my cherished local Moroccan goods retailer and dear friend, Kechmara Designs.
The combination of all these diverse lighting elements is nothing short of phenomenal. The varied textures, shapes, and materials come together to create a truly magical and inviting glow that transforms the dining area into an enchanting space. I am so incredibly happy with this creative lighting solution!
The Patio Lounge Area: The Ultimate Hangout Spot
The patio lounge area is unequivocally the true heart of relaxation and socializing in our new outdoor space. My vision for this zone was to create a comfortable, inviting haven where we could gather with a multitude of friends, kick back, and simply chill. I am absolutely thrilled with how this area turned out; it has quickly become one of our most cherished spots, a testament to the power of thoughtful design in fostering connection and joy!
Modern Comfort with Article Sectionals
At the very core of what makes this space so incredibly functional and appealing are these AMAZING sectionals from Article. They are, without a doubt, absolutely perfect for this setting! We opted for two of these sleek pieces, strategically positioning them to face one another, which instantly creates a fantastic, intimate conversation zone. This arrangement encourages interaction and connection, making it ideal for entertaining.
These sectionals were a bit of a wild card for me style-wise, representing a slightly more modern aesthetic than I typically gravitate towards, but I absolutely LOVE them! Their low-to-the-ground profile proved to be the perfect choice for this space, as it keeps the sight lines beautifully open and clear to all other areas of the backyard, maintaining an expansive feel. The seat cushions are wonderfully sturdy yet incredibly comfortable, providing excellent support for prolonged lounging, while the back cushions are luxuriously soft, inviting ultimate relaxation. The frame, crafted from beautiful solid Acacia wood, is robust and ideal for supporting many hours of comfortable lounging. I particularly adore the chunky arms, which not only add a stylish design element but also offer practical versatility – serving as extra seating when guests arrive or as a convenient spot to rest a drink.
While the cushions are designed for easy wiping down, I do advise against leaving them exposed to extremely wet weather or snow to preserve their longevity. Similarly, power washing is not recommended. With proper care, these sectionals will continue to be a beloved feature of our patio lounge for years to come.
The Centerpiece: Leisure Made Concrete Coffee Table
My absolute favorite element in this entire zone has to be the stunning carved concrete coffee table from Leisure Made. Its intricate design and substantial presence are simply gorgeous, and I love how it serves as a sophisticated, sculptural centerpiece amidst the more modern lines of the sofas. To add further interest and enhanced functionality, I also brought in a curated collection of smaller side tables I already owned, scattering them strategically to offer convenient surfaces for drinks and decor.
Plants, Accessories & Decor: The Finishing Touches
The initial aesthetic direction for this space began with a vision of super eclectic, layered design, heavily inspired by my love for more maximalist spaces. However, as the project progressed, something just didn’t feel quite right. I found myself needing to pivot significantly – taking things away, simplifying, until suddenly, it all clicked into place. I absolutely fell in love with the dramatic, high-contrast palette: the dark house exterior, the striking black pergola, and the rich, dark-stained deck, all beautifully juxtaposed with crisp white furniture, organic natural rattan elements, subtle hints of copper and terracotta, and an abundance of lush greenery and plants. Keeping things pared back to just these core elements felt incredibly perfect for this outdoor setting, so I embraced it wholeheartedly. For the pillows and accessories, I maintained a vibrant yet cohesive palette of coral, yellow, and teal blue, adding pops of color without overwhelming the elegant foundation.
Adding Greenery and Softness with Plants and Rugs
To soften and visually break up the large expanse of wall space along the garage, I constructed a support system for bougainvillea using trellises and concrete composite deck box planters from Home Depot. I anticipate that these will become incredibly beautiful when the vibrant hot pink flowers begin to bloom and climb, adding a magnificent burst of color and organic texture. To further soften the extensive “landing strip” walkway, I introduced several jute rugs. I absolutely love how they enhance the space; they are wonderfully soft underfoot, and their natural texture integrates seamlessly with the outdoor environment. In our hot, dry, and non-humid climate, we can confidently leave jute rugs outside without much concern for damage. However, I would strongly advise against this if you reside in an area that experiences significant rain and moisture. Our rainy season typically occurs in winter, during which time I will simply store them away in the garage, alongside other outdoor items I wish to protect.
My daughter, Naomi, made her delightful “design contribution” to the space in the form of a cherished beanie baby she’s had since she was a little girl. She pleaded with me to let her keep it here, and so, there it rests, adding a touch of sentimental charm!
As I mentioned earlier, I always envisioned the pergola to be magnificently covered in flowering vines. To bring this dream to life, I planted both Wisteria and a vibrant red trumpet vine in large pots at the base of two of the pergola’s posts. I am eagerly anticipating the day when they grow upwards and completely envelop the structure. Purple and red are my absolute favorite color combination, so witnessing this natural tapestry unfold will be an immense joy.
The “Creepster” Collection: A Living Wall of Succulents
One of my absolute favorite moments in this entire space is the addition of my “creepster” succulent and cacti collection. This unique living wall was directly inspired by a dear friend of mine, Risa. She curates an intriguing collection of old man sailor paintings, which she affectionately calls her “collection of creeps,” and they form such a special and interesting feature in her home. I always look forward to visiting and discovering any new pieces she’s added. Inspired by her artistic vision, I decided to create my own version here, embarking on a living wall adorned with fascinating and uniquely prickly plants, each with its own character and charm.
This particular guy is my absolute favorite right now, with its striking form and captivating texture.
I cannot wait to continue expanding this collection, adding more unique and interesting specimens! I also incorporated some galvanized metal wall planters for succulents from World Market, which I spray-painted black to seamlessly integrate with our high-contrast aesthetic.
Night Time Views: The Magic Unfolds After Dusk
Outdoor spaces truly reveal their most magical qualities at night, don’t they? With the sun setting and the soft glow of lights emerging, the atmosphere transforms into something utterly enchanting. Of course, I had to capture some moments for you to experience what our backyard looks like when dusk falls and the carefully curated string lights come to life. We utilized a thoughtful blend of traditional plug-in string lights above the patio area, creating a warm, inviting canopy, alongside solar string lights tracing the entry gate and fence line, providing subtle, ambient illumination.
To further layer the lighting and enhance the overall ambiance, we incorporated other delightful elements. These include whimsical Glo Globes, which add playful, glowing spheres to the landscape, and a sophisticated teak solar lantern from Les Jardin, contributing an elegant, sustainable light source. The combination creates a captivating nocturnal scene that invites lingering and relaxation.
For the time being, I’m utilizing these super inexpensive and easy LED lantern lights hung inside the pendants. They cast a pretty, soft, and ethereal glow, contributing to a very romantic atmosphere. However, I’ve already ordered some remote-controlled LED battery-operated puck lights to install inside them. These will offer a slightly brighter illumination, which I believe will be more optimal for dining, while still providing the flexibility to dim and adjust for those softer, more intimate moments we cherish.
Future Enhancements: Dreams for Tomorrow
While our backyard oasis is largely complete, there’s always room for a few dream additions! We still have one more significant infrastructure task: replacing the battered garage door. We’ve already acquired a beautiful vintage replacement, but it requires some of its glass panes to be meticulously fixed – a challenge that has proven surprisingly difficult to navigate during the current pandemic. I’m confident we’ll get it done eventually, restoring a touch of timeless charm to that area. Beyond that, my heart truly yearns for a Zellige tile Moroccan wall-mounted water fountain out here. I want one so, so badly! I just know it would be the absolute icing on the cake for the space, adding an unparalleled layer of global elegance, soothing sounds, and artistic beauty. These fountains are quite an investment, so I am diligently saving up my coins to make that dream a reality one day soon.
A Dream Realized: Six Years in the Making
This space has been six long years in the making, a culmination of countless hard, tiring days dedicated to seeing this dream outdoor sanctuary come to fruition. My husband and I couldn’t be more thrilled to finally call this place home, especially now, when home has become the central hub of our lives, where we are all spending significantly more time. It’s truly not a bad spot to have to shelter in place, offering comfort and beauty in abundance. However, I do profoundly wish we could already be welcoming our cherished friends and loved ones to enjoy it with us. A significant part of why I meticulously design and transform our home is to share its beauty and comfort with those I hold dear. Rest assured, as soon as “outside” opens up again, we’ll be throwing the most epic dinner party! For now, I am incredibly happy to share every detail and moment of this transformation with all of you here. Thank you to everyone who has followed along from the very beginning, for your unwavering encouragement, and for sharing in our excitement. Sending big, big love to you all!
Until next time, friends….
*A heartfelt thank you to my amazing brand sponsors: Stori Modern, Article, Leisure Made, and Les Jardin for their incredible support in bringing this dream space to life. Your contributions were invaluable. And thank YOU, my readers, for consistently supporting the brands who support my work and help me continue creating content that I genuinely love. All sponsored products have been clearly noted above. Rest assured, all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Sources Not Linked Above: Shop the Look
Jute Runners – World Market
Jute Round Rug – World Market
Copper Exterior Wall Sconce – Rejuvenation
White Rattan Dining Chair – World Market (not currently available)
Outdoor Pillows – World Market, Home Goods, Jungalow
Black Modern Planter – Home Depot
White Self Watering Planters – IKEA
White Deck Box Planter – Home Depot
Terracotta Pot Planter Console Table – Home Goods
White Candle Holder Lanterns – World Market
Throw Blanket – Home Goods
String Lights – Costco
String Light Wiring Kit – Amazon
Midcentury White Planter – World Market (legs come in gold, but I spray painted them black)
Tassel Umbrella Cover – World Market
Black Umbrella Stand – World Market (from two years ago)
Black Umbrella Base – Lowes
Solar String Lights – Amazon
Copper Rain Chain – Amazon (have had for several years so there’s a nice patina to it)
Pavers – Lowes (I have the slate grey colorway)
Pea Gravel – purchased in bulk from a local gravel and rock company