Whether you're enjoying your winter garden or waiting out the colder weather and dreaming of spring, now's a fabulous time to plan some DIY projects for your outdoor living space. Whether you're looking to build or protect a deck or add features such as a fire pit or porch swing, there are endless ways to upgrade your garden.
Where to start?
This blog explores some small and big projects to DIY. Check out these ideas and then build away!
Build a fire pit Fire pits range widely in materials and costs, so you have many options. The best choice depends on how you'll use it.
The first priority is location - keep it away from structures and neighbours - at least 3 meters away. Fire safety must be the priority. Choose a spot away from your home and low-hanging tree limbs; however, it might be convenient to have it near your woodpile.
Next, choose your materials and create a base. You'll likely need both pavers and sand to get the task done. Watch this video by Wickes for more detailed instructions.
Plan a pergola
As I've written before, a pergola can frame up your outdoor living space, add to your overall aesthetic and practically provide vertical paths for climbing vines or string lights. Pergolas offer shade from the glare of sunshine and can even offer some protection from the elements if you have a louvered roof.
Before building a pergola, explore plans and choose the best shape and size for your space. You can build from a kit or start from scratch. Watch videos and review instructions to determine the right project for you.
Go big with a garden deck
One of the best additions to a garden is a deck or patio where you can dine al fresco, host a barbecue, or simply read a book. This is a bigger project, but you can DIY a simple deck with the right skills and tools. Be sure to get any local permits before you begin.
To determine the best deck for your home:
- Check out possible patterns, colours and materials. You may go with a traditional timber deck or use more maintenance-free composite boards made of recycled plastics.
- Consider the rails, which may match your deck or create contrast with metal, glass, or vinyl.
- Explore different shades of stain and composite boards and choose something complementary for your home.
Before you begin to build, consider your new deck's orientation to the sun. You may choose the best spot based on how much light it gets during the day.
Depending on whether the slope behind your home allows for a second-story deck, meaning your deck is built on a raised level with space beneath for a covered room, you may want to consider a drainage system. With a network of troughs and gutters, such a system creates dry, useable space under the deck and can double your living space.
Build a porch swing
Building a porch swing is a relatively easy woodworking project, depending on the complexity of your plan. You can build a lovely addition to your porch, deck, or garden for the cost of the timber and a few hours of your time. If you built a pergola with sturdy timbers, you might be able to hang it from that structure. If not, you will also need to build a frame.
Enhance with lighting
Lighting can add magic to evenings in the garden. Your local hardware store or favourite online shopping site offers a wide range of temporary and permanent lighting options- from fairy lights to solar end caps to permanent lighting. You don't need to be an electrician for most options, as you use your existing outdoor electric outlet and plug and play. So be creative and hang beautiful, pierced lanterns or string up some outdoor Edison bulbs between your trees.
Go for a green wall
Green walls have been trending in recent years. Not only can they add privacy but also beauty to your outdoor living space. You can create your own with a bit of imagination and planning. Going vertical with your greenery can be very effective, especially in tight spaces.
While a living wall has become a popular concept, you can also use faux plants to create a similar effect. The key is to find greenery that works well in your space. Look for plants on discount and then arrange into a satisfying grid.
Build a smaller project
If crafting a deck or pergola feels overwhelming, you can create many other smaller projects in just a few hours. Consider these options:
Choose a project that you can enjoy all next season and go for it! You'll be glad you planned ahead when warmer weather comes.
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