We all cherish a good summer staycation as much as the next person, but if your outdoor space hasn’t gotten any love beyond a cleanup of last year’s weeds—you can’t envision its full potential.
This week, we dove into the vibrant world of Instagram design to gather some inspiration.
We’ve curated five affordable, summer-ready looks that will help you transform your backyard into a stunning outdoor oasis. These designer-inspired ideas will elevate your space and provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and enjoyment—all priced below $200.
1. Designer inflatable pool
If you want to upgrade your backyard with a fun water feature this summer, look no further than this designer inflatable pool from @lykkepools.
“Inflatable pools used to be just for kids, but now there are nicer ones that can make your backyard look like a resort,” says designer and founder Anh Nguyen of Print My Rugs. “With sleek modern shapes and bright colors, these pools let you create your own backyard waterpark without having to dig.”
Get the look: Transform your backyard on a dime with this exact Naturally Nordic pool.
2. Adult swing set
Another look that’s no longer just for the kids? Swing sets, especially if they’re as imaginatively re-created as this one from @imagelightingstore.
“I always ask my clients what they want their outdoor space to feel like, and the answer is often fun, relaxing, and a place to unwind,” says lead interior designer Anna Tatsioni of Decorilla. “An adult swing set provides all of that at once. Swings also provide seating but with an ambiance that brings us back to childhood.”
Get the look: Build your own bit of backyard nostalgia by following this DIY guide and pairing it with one of these hammock swings.
3. Basket lights
For those long, twinkly summer evenings, nothing rings in the transition from day to night quite like the perfect backyard lighting. For this season, we’re loving these woven basket lights from @worldmarket. Place them on a table, the floor, or even a garden path.
“I’m a basket lover because they look good, are versatile, and when combined with lights, you create magic,” says Tatsioni. “Placing these outdoors will immediately add sophistication and elegance while still keeping a delicate and artisan look.”
Get the look: Give your outdoor space a literal glow-up with these wicker globe hurricanes.
4. Checkered planters
Checkered anything has been on trend for a while now, and that’s especially true when it comes to playful summertime decor like these planters from @mackenziechilds.
“They are a very easy way to add style to your home, especially during the summer months, where color is at its fullest,” says Tatsioni. “The way the checkered pattern combines with plants is amazing. It’s modern, contemporary, stylish, risky, and speaks to a very authentic style.”
Get the look: Add some bold checks to your backyard look with this courtly check planter.
5. Turkish towel throws
Need a few more outdoor towels or throw blankets? Why not get both—with a Turkish towel-style throw like this one from @acquired_by_andrea.
“Snuggle up under a soft, tasseled Turkish throw as the night air gets cooler,” says Nguyen. “These oversized, lightweight blankets add color, pattern, and coziness to any outdoor lounge scene. Drape them over chairs, use them as picnic blankets, or wrap up in one while stargazing.”
Get the look: Get yourself some cozy, versatile outdoor throws with this Turkish towel set.
Article originally appeared on Realtor.com.
