How to design backyard renovation?

Hi Community,

My wife and I are hoping to get some advice and direction for a backyard project we’ve been dreaming about. The truth is, we have no experience with building, tools, or design — but we’re excited by the idea of giving it a go ourselves, at least for some of the easier parts.

We have an empty area in our backyard that we’d love to transform into a beautiful space with a deck and an alfresco or pergola, a paved area, some greenery and plants at the back, and a cozy fire pit near an existing tree that match all togueter to add value to the property and use this empty space that we don't use atm.

We’re wondering if there’s a tool or app we can use to help visualise the design before starting, or if it’s possible to get someone to help us draw up a plan with recommended materials, tools, and even suggested plants. That way, we could see the full vision first, then break the project down into smaller, manageable steps — including a rough idea of costs and where to start.

We’d really appreciate any tips, suggestions or resources! How do people usually start planning a project like this?

Thanks in advance!

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Comments

JacobZ

Hi @cepalo,

You've got a wonderfully clean slate to work with, so I'm sure we can come up with something magnificent.

You might want to start by having a read through How To Design A Landscaping Plan and How to plan a garden makeover, and then checking out our Top 10 most popular outdoor projects for some ideas and to get the creative juices flowing.

The first step is to create a rough sketch of your backyard, including basic measurements and the location of immovable objects, such as the surface-level components of the drainage system. You could then sketch the basic location of the important structures, like the deck, fire pit and alfresco, to get a basic idea of the shape and how they sit with each other.

With the larger structures and immovable objects in place, you can then start thinking about flow and function. Will you have paths that wind around the yard? Do you want rigid raised garden beds or flowing natural shapes? Would you like a watering system? Would you like to build in shade?

Once you have the basic ideas on paper, you can play around and really think about how it would feel to be in the space. Consider things like privacy from neighbours and where the sun will be at certain times.

I use SketchUp for all my design work. It is an easy-to-use 3d rendering software with amazing capabilities. There are also augmented reality apps that leverage AI that you can download from the major smartphone app stores. If you have a search around, I am sure you could find one.

In the initial stages of the plan, I think it is important to think of form, flow and function before you start considering materials, plants and eventually the cost.

When you have had a good think and have a basic plan on paper, you can start getting into a more in-depth design.

If you'd upload your basic plan, ensuring measurements are shown, we can have a look at what you've got and propose ideas and help with planning.

Allow me to tag some of our wonderful community members to see what they think and if they have any ideas you could implement in your backyard - @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @Herrenovacation, @prettyliving, @Noelle and @mich1972.

Let me know what you think. I look forward to seeing what we can come up with.

Jacob

Dave-1

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/55258#Comment_55258

Good morning @cepalo

@JacobZ has really outlined solid things to consider. Here are a few extra ones that come to mind. 🙂

I dont use an app, I use a notepad, pencil, sharpener and a few coffees 🙂

I draw up a base outline on the first page and then add things on the next page, that way I get to see it unfold in my mind.

The hard things in the yard, as @JacobZ has mentioned, these cant or you dont want them to move. I would work to hide them or use them in some form.

The large grill drain, the smaller sewer pipe? and then the white pipe I would hide. You cant cover them with something fixed, but you could have large pot plants round the area to form a gardened area.

On your rectangular area you have drawn, dont forget to add the extra bits to the side of your yard, plus your back door area.

Your clothesline I would class as a movable object, think where your sun shines throughout the year, think of headspace and freedom of movement. Maybe a different type of clothesline?

Pathways lead to points, a solid pathway, paved, gravel, concrete, mulch even. Maybe start with a path that leads to the clothesline, A shed or awning to store garden tools/mowers may be an idea. Garden beds, raised garden beds (factor in sunlight throughout the year)

The tree you have, maybe enlarge upon the area, make it somewhere to relax under, pick a few more trees taking note of the width and height they can grow. I have two liquid ambers in my yard tha can grow to 12-17m and 3-5m width. I planted them becaus eI want the leave sto fall in winter, Also I knew that I would have to lop them ever few years to keep them in line. Think large bonsai project 🙂 They have reached as large as I want already so I lop them every two years. Trim up the width and they work well in the yard.

How is your drainage in the yard? Are there any wet areas that stay wet longer then you would expect after rain?

Lots of fun things to consider, birdbaths, ponds, bird stands (Post with a landing aarea and seed/water up high) solar lights for night time looks.

As you said, break all of the ones you choose down to smaller parts to complete, I find it amazing how the yard comes together.

Dave

Herrenovacation

@cepalo welcome and that sounds like a great backyard project!

I see you already have some great advice from @JacobZ & @Dave-1 I have done a few cool outdoor projects but have not yet started on the firepit & deck area.

1. Tools and Apps to Visualize Your Design

There are several user-friendly tools and apps designed for landscaping and outdoor space planning that you can try to visualize your idea before starting like SketchUp Free, Auto CAD, Smart Draw and many more, I can't personally recommend any as I usually hand draw what I am planning.

2. Getting Professional Help

If you want a detailed plan with material recommendations, cost estimates, and a step-by-step project breakdown, and are not worried about the cost look into Landscape Designer or Architect who can draft detailed plans tailored to your space and preferences, including plant choices and hardscaping materials. And if you are not planning to DIY a Local Handyman or Contractor can sometimes provide ideas on materials and costs, especially for decks, pergolas, and fire pits. Also keep in mind Garden Centers or Nurseries as Some offer design consultation and can recommend plants suitable for your climate and soil.

3. Steps

Start by sketching your ideas on paper or using one of the many apps.
List your must-haves (deck, pergola, paved area, fire pit, greenery).
Research plants that thrive locally and fit your aesthetic, keep in mind how big those plants can grow, the ongoing maintenance and if they are considered a noxious weed.
Reach out to a professional for a consultation if you want detailed plans and costings.
Use the plan to phase your project, starting with foundational elements (deck and paving) and adding plants and features later.

Instagram & Pinterest are my go-to for inspiration.

I hope that helps.

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