8 Summer Projects for the Ultimate Backyard | Dallas Fort Worth

Is your piece of the great outdoors feeling a little blah? It’s time to add more fun to your backyard.

We’ve rounded up 10 summer projects to help you design the ultimate backyard for your DFW home!

1. Create Shade

It’s undeniable . . . DFW summers are hot! Don’t hide inside. Make your backyard more pleasant by creating shade. Install a patio awning, build a shaded pergola, or add umbrellas for instant shade.

Is it still too hot? Generate an instant breeze with outdoor cooling fans.

2. Add Fun with Lawn Games

Create friendly competition with lawn games. Set up an outdoor game station for endless summer fun. From cornhole to croquet, select a range of games for everyone.

Feeling crafty? Browse Pinterest for DIY inspiration. This giant Jenga looks so fun!

3. Set Up the Ultimate Al Fresco Dining Room

If you love entertaining, creating an outdoor dining room should be at the top of your summer projects list! Start by investing in a table or cleaning up the one your already have. Add color with outdoor cushions and pillows, and use a rug to anchor the space.

Set the table with fun and inexpensive plastic dishes and pretty linens that will last this summer and beyond. Don’t forget candles and flowers.

4. Arrange Ample Seating

Choosing the right seating is a high priority for any outdoor space. For large spaces, break your backyard into distinct areas. Set up separate spaces for eating, cooking, and relaxing.

Create an outdoor living room to relax at the day’s end, add a couple chairs in a quiet corner, hang a hammock, or place a bench in your garden. This DIY outdoor bench made from a salvaged door looks like a fun summer project.

For small backyards, a cafe table and chairs are charming and compact. Add comfort with chair cushions.

5. Brighten and Add Character with Lights

Make the most of breezy summer nights with a well lit backyard. Just like you would inside your home, layer lighting to create functionality and ambiance. Start by adding wall lights or lanterns to brighten the whole space. Next, add task lighting, such as mounted light by the grill or an outdoor lamp next to your favorite chair. Finally, accent your space with strings of globe lights, candles, or spotlights on landscaping.

6. Arrange an Outdoor Bar

Create the ultimate outdoor entertaining space by setting up a bar. A bar cart is the perfect place to store your favorite drinks during parties and lazy afternoons. Repurpose a vintage table or make your potting bench do double duty by clearing the top. Install hooks to hold towels and bar tools, add plenty of ice, and top the cart with a large tray to make transporting drinks and glassware easier.

7. Grow Something

No summer projects list would be complete without talking about plants!

Before you plant anything, consider how much time and patience you have for maintenance, then make a plan. Window boxes and container gardens are perfect for beginners, or if you’re more ambitious, create flower beds or a vegetable garden. For best results, choose plants that thrive in our DFW climate.

8. Create a Grilling Station

Love grilling? Then, creating your very own grilling station is a must!

Sure, you’ll need a grill, but add a cart for holding serving plates and tools, too. Use the cart to store your favorite spices, clean towels, and other grilling accessories.

When you’re finishing cooking, simply roll the cart to the table and dinner is served!