Outdoor living spaces: 3 Simple upgrades to consider

by Ann Hayward 04/07/2025

Regardless of temperature, it’s never too soon or too late to start thinking about improving your outdoor living spaces. If you want to spend more time outdoors, your backyard, side yard or even a small balcony can be the perfect place to get some fresh air.

If your outdoor space needs a refresh, try some of these simple upgrade ideas:

Add shade & privacy

Create shelter in your outdoor living space to improve your comfort and privacy. Conveniently, you can accomplish both goals at the same time by adding outdoor features like screens, fences or trellises.

For porches with an existing overhang, try hanging outdoor curtains for a simple shade and privacy solution. You can use light, airy fabrics to enjoy the natural light while sheltering your outdoor space from harsh rays.

For a boho chic approach, try adding eclectic patterns and colors. You can carry this style choice through to your outdoor furniture and decor to create a cohesive design.

Create an oasis with lush container plants

You don’t need expansive ground space to have a lush, beautiful garden in your outdoor space. There are plenty of options for container plants, both for functional and decorative purposes.

For a small space, vertical garden planters are ideal for adding greenery with a small footprint. Planting a personal herb garden is the perfect option for saving space while perfectly accenting your indoor or outdoor kitchen.

Try incorporating a mix of vibrant flowers in hanging baskets and tall, tropical plants in decorative pots to create the perfect backyard oasis.

Expand your seating options

A simple way to upgrade any outdoor space is by upgrading the outdoor seating and other furniture. If you like entertaining at home, it’s crucial to have enough seating to include your guests. To save space, try contemporary folding chairs with weather resistant cushions.

Arrange your seating around a focal point like an outdoor coffee table or fire pit. If your outdoor space boasts a beautiful view, focus your seating outward to enjoy it to the fullest. Incorporate lounge chairs and more upright seating to accommodate your every whim, from a quiet nap to an exciting outdoor dinner party.

Upgrading outdoor living spaces can be as simple as addressing your needs and personal style. By using these ideas as a starting point, you can take your outdoor space to a new level and enjoy it for seasons to come.

About the Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]