Backyard Design Files

I've been keeping a dirty little secret. Really. Our backyard...

Not so pretty right now. We inherited an old 80's pool that isn't my favorite and throws everything off but we're trying our best to work with it. We didn't want to scrap it because, well, pools are fun. And it's awesome to hear the stories from people about how they grew up swimming in the pool (it was one of the few pools in the neighborhood back in the day). And I mean, we've already overhauled the house, let's keep the charming pool. I actually believe by embracing it we can create a super cool backyard (even without redo-ing it and spending an absolute fortune). Pipe dream? Very possible. What do you think? We've already switched it to salt, so there's that at least. But it's going to be hard to work with that weird patio. That's the real problem. The patio that we probably have to work with. Budget budget...

In the meantime the screen porch and storage shed project we started a couple of weeks ago should wrap up in the next couple of days. I'm SO excited about both of these. We're building the screen porch with the idea that it is a true room to the house and plan to be out there all the time with the kids. We didn't put an exterior door on the porch, so you can't get to the yard from there. I like it that way while the kids are young, plus it can be switched easily later. And I will finally get to use my mudroom since Josh will move all his tools and things out to the shed!! Awesome. Wouldn't it be fun if that were a playhouse for the kids? Probably not going to happen though.

Note: all of these pictures were taken at different stages of the building process. And you know this light above the mint door is being replaced.

No, we don't have a fireplace on our porch (though we'd like to have a backyard fire pit at some point). That's the backside of the one that's inside the house.

 

As far as the actual patio and yard area go, we have some space to work with. Our house is shaped like a U in the back so there is this courtyard that is created. So there's potential. Our lot is uniquely large for our area, that's a plus too. Here are some of the images that are inspiring me...

And these flamingos!! I mean, these people are just having fun with their home. That is what it's all about. I'd love to incorporate a few :)

Oh and I know what you're thinking and don't worry. You're right, I know nothing about landscape design. We've called in the big guns for this one and are working with a landscape architect. Hoping we make some magic together. One thing's for sure, there will be some damn twinkling lights.