How to Decorate an Awkward Backyard

Survey the space. Measure the area and mark off the boundaries if they are not already clear using colored stakes to ensure that any enhancements you make do not extend beyond your property line.

List the types of things you want to do in this outdoors space. Include on your list, for example, an area for entertaining and separate areas for outdoor cooking and outdoor games, such as horseshoes or volleyball.

Sketch out where you could place stations for the completion of each of these activities. On a separate sheet of paper, or on the back of the sheet containing your list, create a rough sketch of your planned placement for these activities. Use graph paper and create a scale drawing.

Divide up the space with decking, bricks or landscaping. Add a wooden deck or sunken brick patio to create space for entertaining or cooking out. When creating this decking, don’t feel confined to a traditional square shape. Instead, make your deck uncommonly shaped to add to the aesthetic appeal of the space. For example, create a circular deck and place a table in the center and a grill over to one side. If you want to make less permanent boundaries, plant bushes along the dividing lines between your spaces. Plant a row of shrubs to separate your entertaining area from the area in which you plan to sunbathe.

Add some focal points to the most open and airy sections of the yard. Draw attention to the largest open spaces by placing simple additions, such as birdbaths or even ornamental trees, in these sections of your lawn.