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The project:
We transformed our blank backyard into a modern, low-maintenance entertaining space that is both functional and inviting.
The project included new turf, curved garden beds, feature planting, irrigation, landscape lighting, a custom Ekodeck screen to conceal pool equipment, stepping stones and a dedicated fire pit area.
The goal was to create a backyard with clean lines, minimal maintenance and year-round usability while completing as much of the project ourselves as possible.
Many of the materials, plants and landscaping products were sourced from Bunnings, making this a DIY project that can easily be replicated by other homeowners.
- Materials:
- Ekodeck screening boards
- Metal posts for framing of the screen
- Black plastic garden edging (flexible for curves)
- Decorative pebbles (cottage)
- Premium landscape mulch
- Garden soil
- Lawn (turf)
- Irrigation system components (pipe, fittings and sprinklers/drippers)
- Landscape lighting
- Feature trees 'Silver Birch'
- Magnolia 'Teddy Bear' screening plants
- Feature shrubs and groundcovers
- Weed mat
- Stepping stones
- Steel edging for the fire pit area
- Outdoor chairs
- Fire pit
- Screws, fixings and landscape staples
- Retractable hose.
- Tools:
- Shovel
- Wheelbarrow
- Spirit level
- Drill/driver
- Circular saw or mitre saw
- Tape measure
- String line
- Rubber mallet
- Utility knife
- Rake
- Garden spade
- Hose.
- Step 1:
Design and planning
Started by planning the overall layout to create a modern, low-maintenance backyard with defined zones for entertaining, planting and open lawn. The design focused on clean curves, practical use of space and screening the pool equipment while keeping it accessible.
- Step 2:
Prepare the site
Cleared and levelled the backyard before marking out the garden beds, lawn and fire pit area. Careful preparation ensured all landscaping elements flowed together and provided a solid foundation for the build.
- Step 3:
Install garden edging
Installed flexible black garden edging to define the curved garden beds and separate the lawn, mulch and pebble areas. This helped achieve the soft, flowing lines that tie the landscape together.
- Step 4:
Build Ekodeck screen
Constructed a custom Ekodeck screen to conceal the pool equipment while maintaining easy access for servicing. This simple addition transformed an otherwise functional area into an attractive design feature.
- Step 5:
Create fire pit area
Built a dedicated fire pit zone using curved edging and decorative pebbles to create a cosy space for relaxing and entertaining while complementing the surrounding landscape.
- Step 6:
Install irrigation system
Installed an irrigation system throughout the garden beds before planting to make ongoing maintenance simple and ensure consistent watering for all new plants.
- Step 7:
Lawn installation
Prepared the base before laying the new lawn, creating a generous open space that balances the surrounding garden beds and entertaining area.
- Step 8:
Plant garden
Added feature trees, screening plants and low-maintenance shrubs before applying mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds and give the garden a clean, finished appearance.
- Step 9:
Final styling and finishing touches
Positioned the outdoor furniture, completed the final landscaping touches and gave the backyard a thorough clean before enjoying the finished transformation. The result is a contemporary outdoor space that is functional, low maintenance and designed to be enjoyed year-round.
- Help and inspiration:
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How to plan a garden makeover
A garden makeover is a very rewarding project. Whether a simple refresh or a major rebuild, improving your garden means that you’ll be able to enjoy the results for years to come. Get expert advice from horticulturist Adam in the guide How to plan a garden makeover.
More inspiration for your backyard
A fire pit can transform an unused corner of your garden into a cosy place to unwind and entertain family and friends. Workshop member  made an outdoor fire pit area with hanging chairs by levelling the ground and adding a small retaining wall, while  turned a bare corner into a fire pit area with planter box and bench seat.
A kids play area was converted by member lcooksey88 into a stylish space for gathering around a fire pit with custom bench seats, Merbau screening and Un-Real hedge panels.
Get more ideas from 15 ways to update your garden and our Top 10 most popular garden makeovers.
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