Creating a Backyard Bonanza

When your house is built on a steep slope, you may not have much usable yard to speak of, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the amenities of those who have flatter terrain. Here, Douglas fir logs combine with low-maintenance Trex decking to form a covered, multi-level party palace. At one end, a sunken lounge area is anchored by a stone outdoor fireplace; while at the other, a casual dining spot lets you sip your morning coffee among the treetops. Bill Mathews photo.

Dressing up a blank back yard doesn’t have to be elaborate to be effective. This timber hybrid home transforms a small patio into three distinct spaces: a grilling spot, a dining area and a conversation zone. The grouping is grounded by a concrete patio, while a gravel border, punctuated by large accent boulders, adds visual interest without conflicting with views of the surrounding scenery. Hearthstone Homes photo by James Ray Spahn.

The key to any successful backyard entertaining area is to have a strong focal point, but the setup doesn’t have to be elaborate to shine. Here, a simple elongated dining table draws the eye to the green arbor at the far end of the yard. Rows of trees stand sentinel to either side, defining the space as an outdoor dining room, while peagravel provides a satisfying crunch underfoot. The overall effect is at once casual and charming. (And it’s a breeze for a DIYer to achieve.) 

A lean-to style porch cover can ease the transition between indoor spaces and the grounds. It also allows you to spend more time outdoors when the weather turns foul. Enhance the zone with a simple hot tub on a rock-encased platform and you can hang out snow or shine. Photo courtesy of Timberlyne.

The rear view at the Wade residence is as dramatic as the log home’s waterfront location. Chiseled stone retainer walls shore up the sloping lot, making it more useful. At the base, a glowing gas fire pit is a no-fuss alternative to a wood-burner. But the best part? Nearly every room in the house has direct access to this highly enjoyable spot. Photo courtesy of Christina Wedge and Chip Wade.

What’s better than one outstanding outdoor room? How about two! An elevated outdoor lounge attached to the rear of this home peers toward the timbered pavilion at the water’s edge, which not only has direct access to the boat dock, it also contains a relaxing hot tub and picnic area. Choosing timber framing for the pavilion is an ideal way to tie the space to the main house. Photo courtesy of Canadian Timberframes.