Backyard Remodeling Materials for Your Outdoor Sanctuary

Who says backyard remodeling has to be boring? Break free from cookie-cutter designs and generic materials. It’s time to turn your outdoor space into a one-of-a-kind reflection of your personality and style. We’ve scoured the design world and rounded up some of the most innovative and eye-catching materials to spark your imagination. 

Reclaimed Wood: Bring warmth and character to your backyard with salvaged wood. Picture a weathered fence built from old barn boards, a rustic pergola constructed from repurposed factory beams, or even a charming bench made from shipping pallets.

Brooklyn backyard renovation

Gabion Walls: Stack rocks, bricks, or colorful glass inside wire cages to create striking walls. Imagine a gabion retaining wall that doubles as a cascading waterfall feature or a series of gabion planters overflowing with vibrant succulents

Photo by @anaterate via Pixabay

Permeable Pavers: Ditch the concrete and opt for these eco-conscious pavers. Watch rainwater naturally filter into the ground instead of pooling on your patio, nurturing your plants and preventing harmful runoff.

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Photo by @_Alicja_ via Pixabay

Gravel and Decomposed Granite: Budget-friendly and low-maintenance, gravel and decomposed granite create casual and natural-looking ground cover for pathways, patios, or even entire backyard landscapes.

Wood Decking: Warm and inviting, wood decking provides a comfortable surface for lounging, dining, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Choose from a variety of woods like cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine.Small backyard deck with inbuilt seating and brick wall background after renovation

Plants and Landscaping: Create a lush, natural enclosure for your backyard oasis with strategically planted trees, shrubs, and vines. Imagine a wall of arborvitae or boxwood filtering the afternoon sun, a sturdy pergola adorned with flowering wisteria or fragrant honeysuckle, or a charming gazebo enveloped in climbing roses or clematis.

house addition with new deck and sliding glass doors

Outdoor Fabric: Sunbrella and other outdoor fabrics have come a long way. They’re designed to withstand the elements, resist fading, and are available in a wide array of colors and patterns, perfect for cushions, pillows, and even umbrellas.

NYC backyard with cedar fence, gravel siding and hammock seating

Concrete Pavers with Unique Designs:  Forge a unique path through your backyard with eye-catching pavers. Picture a mosaic of geometric shapes guiding you to a cozy fire pit, or a winding walkway paved with stones in varying sizes and hues.

Outdoor Lighting: Lighting can completely transform your backyard ambiance. Consider string lights, pathway lights, spotlights for landscaping features, and even lanterns for a touch of warmth.

Two white couches in the deck with the old brick wall building in the background after renovation

Your backyard is a canvas waiting for your personal touch. By embracing these creative and unconventional materials, you can transform your outdoor space into a sanctuary that reflects your unique style and personality. Let your imagination run wild, experiment with different textures and colors, and create an outdoor haven that is truly your own. Remember, the most beautiful backyards are those that tell a story—your story. So, go ahead and make your backyard a masterpiece.

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Post your project on Sweeten and make your dream backyard a reality. Sweeten puts you in control of your renovation, from finding the perfect contractor and gathering design inspiration, to using cost guides  to plan your budget wisely.

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