It’s easy to get so wrapped up in making the inside of your custom home look amazing that you forget an equally important area, YOUR BACKYARD! Backyards are essentially an extra living room, and with all the cool new outdoor features on the market you can seamlessly blend your indoor and outdoor spaces. We have put together a list of everything you need to achieve the perfect outdoor oasis of your very own.

First things first, Landscaping

Plants and trees add a dynamic element to your backyard and can bring pops of color and texture to your space. Bushes, and trees can do so much more than just offer a pleasing visual. Planting a couple trees can provide you with necessary shade during the hot summer months and are a great barrier between your property and the “not so awesome” neighbors. There are also many plants, such as Citronella Grass, that naturally repel mosquitos and other pesky insects. If your space is not ideal for mature trees, but you still crave some shade, pergolas are the perfect alternative. With so many different styles to choose from, there is a pergola out there that will be an attractive addition for any backyard. Wood, metal, vinyl, linen canopy’s, swings, curtains and low voltage lights, the options are endless.

Furniture

Probably the most essential items to any backyard space. The best way to determine what kind of furniture pieces you will need is to first decide what you love to do most outdoors. A patio table with chairs and an umbrella is perfect for summer night dinners with friends and family. A wicker couch and chair set is a must if you want to entertain in comfort, or kick your feet up and relax in the fresh air. If you have a pool, then lounge chairs or a day bed are a necessity. It’s very easy to get sticker shock from the price tags on some outdoor furniture but quality pieces are worth the extra money. Wayfair.com has a massive inventory so you can find the perfect pieces for your outdoor spaces and comparison shop in one place.

Grill/Outdoor kitchen

It sure puts a damper on a party when one of the hosts is stuck inside in the kitchen while everyone is enjoying themselves outside. An outdoor kitchen allows you to entertain and prepare all the food without being left out of the party. As with furniture, think about what you really need in an outdoor kitchen. What kinds of foods do you want to be able to cook? Do you plan on eating outside as well? Do you have kid’s safety that you need to worry about? All of these questions will determine which products will meet your needs so that your outdoor kitchen is perfectly tailored to your lifestyle. If a full outdoor kitchen is not necessary for your household, purchasing a high-quality grill from ABT will ensure all your outdoor cooking needs are met.

Last, but not least, the Fire Pit

Gathering with friends around a bonfire is practically an American past time, but fire pits have gotten a facelift is the last decade or so which is making them a more realistic addition to even the smallest outdoor space. Wood is no longer the burning material of choice since gas lines have come into the scene. Gas burning fire pits are a work of art that can act as a focal point even when not lit. HGTV.com has an amazing inspiration gallery of gas fire pits here. If you do still love the smoky-ness of a true wood bonfire however, there are so many different materials you can use to get the exact look you imagined.