12 Ways to Spruce Up Your Outdoor Spaces

Once the summer months are in full swing, we often spend much more time outdoors. By now, you might’ve noticed your patio furniture is fraying after a few years out in the elements, or maybe your lifestyle has shifted, and your yard no longer supports your outdoor summer activities.

‍

Regardless of the reason, if your backyard needs an upgrade before the weather cools down again for the year, we’ve gathered a few ideas to spark inspiration. Find out 12 renter-friendly outdoor tips to upgrade your rental home’s backyard!

‍

Renter-Friendly Upgrades for Outdoor Spaces

Create the backyard, front porch, or patio of your dreams with a few outdoor rental home upgrades below!

‍

1. Potted Plants: If you’re thinking about potting some plants or taking up gardening, just know that plants are always a good idea! Plants can decorate your rental home’s yard, but they’re also good for the environment and a great hobby! Add some ornamental and flowering plants or grow your own food. Before planting, check for invasive species and opt for native plants whenever possible. If you have pets, look for pet-friendly plants!

‍

2. Patio Furniture: While patio furniture is specially designed to withstand the outdoor elements, it can only last for so many years before it becomes damaged and needs replacement. This is especially important if you leave your patio furniture exposed to the elements throughout the year. Updating your patio furniture (or adding your first patio set!) is a great way to refresh your yard this summer. You may never want to go indoors until the weather cools down!

‍

3. Bird Feeder and Bath: Want to attract your neighborhood birds for some summer bird watching? Then, installing a bird feeder and bath is the perfect addition to your yard. Add some bird-safe food to the feeder and relax in an outdoor lounge chair as the birds fly by—pigeons, hummingbirds, and cardinals, oh my!

‍

4. Outdoor Lighting: Don’t get caught in the dark when your summertime festivities go past sundown! Light up your yard with various outdoor lighting options, such as string lights, ground lights, lamps, or lanterns—just ensure it's specially designed for outdoor use. Bonus points if you go for solar-powered outdoor lighting!

‍

5. Yard Decor: Outdoor decor is often overlooked when decorating a home, but it’s a great way to customize a rental house. Consider adding garden statues, a water fountain, wind chimes, an outdoor rug, flags, or light-reflecting glass decor, such as sun catchers or glass balls, to make the yard your own. Plus, if you have any plants, you can swap any basic, beginner pots for decorative ones for a new and improved look!

‍

6. Ground/Yard Pavers: Laying down some yard pavers is a great way to create pathways and decorate your rental home’s backyard! Select from various sizes, colors, materials, and pathway designs to achieve an updated look.

‍

7. Kid-Friendly Activities: Having a pool or trampoline in the backyard is every kid’s dream, but don’t think these are exclusive to just kids! Adding a detached pool complete with pool floats, or a trampoline can be a fun summer activity for everyone. Keep the outdoor activities going with cornhole games, water guns, a sandbox, or card games for endless summer fun.

‍

8. Fire Pit: If the temperatures cool down after hours where you live, then adding a fire pit is a great way to stay warm on chilly summer nights. Brush up on your fire safety, check with your local authorities on daily fire risks, and ensure you invest in a safe fire pit. Or, you can opt for a flameless fire pit to keep your outdoor summer festivities safe. Roasted marshmallows and s’mores, anyone?!

‍

9. Outdoor Heater: If fire pits (flame or no flame) aren’t your thing, then installing an outdoor heater is another alternative for staying warm on chilly summer nights—and even colder fall and winter days! With an outdoor heater, you can stay warm for all your year-round outdoor activities.

‍

10. Outdoor Grill: If you’re someone who likes to cook and host friends and family, then an outdoor grill is a non-negotiable for the summer. Gather your community and fire up the grill any day of the year for a tasty outdoor meal. Plus, who doesn’t love a good summer BBQ?

‍

11. Dog House and Other Outdoor Pet Enclosures: Don’t leave your pets out of the summertime fun! Consider adding a doghouse if you have a dog or an outdoor pet enclosure for your cats to safely roam in the yard. Just make sure you take precautions to keep your pets safe this summer! 

‍

12. Outdoor Tools: While spending time outdoors in the summer can be fun, don’t forget to prepare for the elements. Even if you’re just in the backyard, make sure to have the following resources for a safe and comfortable time: sunscreen, plenty of water, and bug repellent tools such as bug spray, citronella candles, or a tent screen to minimize mosquito bites.

‍

Preparing your backyard and other outdoor areas doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few upgrades, your outdoor spaces will be ready for all your summer adventures!

‍

A Better Living Experience

At Bridge Homes, we believe everyone deserves a quality home. With thousands of new or renovated home rentals in desirable neighborhoods across the United States, our dedicated team ensures each property adheres to our standards of quality, cleanliness, and safety. Explore our listings and take the first step towards a well-maintained and fulfilling living experience.

‍