9 Trending and Totally Fun Backyard Ideas to Enhance Your Space

Plunge Pools

Bigger isn't necessarily better when it comes to swimming pools—and these days, smaller plunge pools have gained in popularity. "Plunge pools have been our most popular style—especially in small yards," Poppy says. "Their small footprint allows space for other backyard amenities like a corresponding sauna, a fire pit seating area, or a pergola and dining area."

Plunge pools can also be easier on the planet, and the budget. "Plunge pools require a lot less water and less upkeep, perfect for someone who wants a quick way to relax or cool off without using heaps of water."

Saunas

As more people look to turn their backyards into a wellness zone, saunas have become extremely popular. Yardzen has logged a 45 percent increase in sauna requests in the last year alone.

Accessory Spaces

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have become big during the pandemic, as homeowners look to create a little sanctuary or even a work-from-yard office. And the trend has continued, with a 33 percent increase in requests for sheds, ADUs, and other storage units over the past year.

Even in the smallest of sheds, people are able to carve out a special space. "We've gotten many requests for offices, studio or creative spaces, yoga and fitness rooms, greenhouse-style sheds with seating, and more," Poppy says. "Our own design director even built a soundproof drum studio in his shed."

Tree Houses and Play Structures

Kids are getting their own outdoor sanctuaries in many backyards. Tree house requests are up 14 percent, and play structures up 28 percent.

Poppy says the increase in outdoor dwellings may be tied to the tough housing market and higher interest rates. "It's made it challenging for people to move or size up, so many homeowners are finding ways to embrace their existing space," she says. "We see that playing out through these backyard features that are all about promoting happiness, wellness and really, every day enjoyment outside."

Outdoor Bars

With outdoor entertaining on the rise, it's only natural that an outdoor bar is a must have. And many homeowners are moving beyond the outdoor bar cart to request full bar structures for their backyards. Yardzen has seen a 69 percent increase in requests for outdoor bar setups.

Hot Tubs

Honestly, who wouldn't want a hot tub in their backyard? With chic new styles available, it's no wonder that requests for hot tubs are up by 34 percent.

Pizza Ovens

Grills aren't the only way to cook outdoors. Even if you don't want to build a full-on outdoor kitchen, a pizza oven can be a great way to add to your backyard culinary options.

In fact, there's been a 65 percent increase in requests for pizza ovens over the past year, according to Yardzen.

Fire Pits or Fireplaces

As a source of warmth, light, and well-roasted marshmallows, there's no beating a cozy outdoor fire. While fire pits have been an outdoor favorite for years, more people are upgrading to an outdoor fireplace that turns their patio into more of a formal living space.

More than half of all Yardzen clients include firepits in their backyard designs, and requests for outdoor fireplaces are up 40 percent.

Slides

For parents of young kids, adding a slide to the backyard (as opposed to a full swing set) offers an opportunity for fun without taking up too much of the yard—especially when it can be integrated into the backyard design. Yardzen has noted an 85 percent increase in requests for slides.