Creating a beautiful outdoor space doesn’t always require a complete makeover. In this virtual outdoor design project, my client already had many of the larger furniture pieces in place but wanted help making the backyard feel more functional, cohesive, and ready for summer entertaining.
Through my Room Finishing Package, I provided recommendations to improve the layout, introduce more color and softness, and add the finishing touches that would help the space feel intentional and complete. Sometimes the biggest transformations come from making the most of what you already have, and this backyard is a great example.
The goal for this backyard refresh was to elevate the overall look of the space and create a more cohesive, finished feel while making the most of the furnishings already in place. One of my client’s primary concerns was the large white perimeter wall, which felt a bit stark against the rest of the landscape. Rather than trying to conceal it, I saw it as an opportunity. The crisp white wall provides a clean backdrop that helps the surrounding plants, furnishings, and accessories stand out.
To soften the appearance of the wall and add more visual interest, I recommended installing a narrow planting border along the grassy perimeter of the yard. Layering a mix of plants in varying heights helps break up the long expanse of white while introducing texture, color, and a more established feel.
The grassy area also presented the perfect opportunity to create a dedicated lounging zone. Relocating the chaise lounges to this section of the yard not only improves circulation around the pool but also creates a comfortable retreat for relaxing in the sun.
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To further enhance the design, I recommended replacing the existing umbrellas with bold black-and-white striped versions. The graphic pattern complements the crisp white wall while adding personality and creating a strong visual focal point. Combined with the new landscaping, the result feels fresh, layered, and intentional. The overall aesthetic strikes a balance between modern farmhouse and Palm Springs-inspired style—relaxed, inviting, and perfectly suited for summer living.
Another recommendation was to relocate the storage shed to a more intentional location within the yard. While storage is an important practical element, it doesn’t have to feel like an afterthought. By repositioning the shed, it can become a purposeful feature within the overall design rather than something tucked awkwardly into a corner.
Creating focal points throughout a space—whether indoors or out—is an important part of good design. Focal points help guide the eye, create visual interest, and make a space feel thoughtfully planned. Between the pool, lounge area, landscaping, and repositioned shed, the backyard now offers several areas of interest that work together to create a more balanced and inviting outdoor environment.
To help define the outdoor living zones, I recommended adding two matching outdoor rugs—one beneath the lounge seating area and another beneath the dining table. Using rugs of the same size and style helps create continuity throughout the space while visually connecting the different activity areas. The layered look adds warmth, texture, and a sense of intention, giving the backyard the relaxed yet polished feel of a luxury resort.
One of the easiest ways to make an outdoor space feel more elevated is by minimizing visual clutter. Practical items like gardening tools, pool supplies, and equipment are necessary, but they don’t need to be on full display. Incorporating attractive storage solutions and strategically placed privacy screens can help conceal these items while creating a cleaner, more polished look throughout the yard.
One of the things I love most about projects like this is that they demonstrate how impactful small changes can be. The client already had many of the foundational pieces in place. By refining the layout, introducing additional landscaping, adding a few carefully selected accessories, and creating more intentional focal points, the backyard now feels more cohesive, functional, and ready for summer.
If you have a space that feels almost finished but you’re struggling to pull everything together, my Room Finishing Package is designed to help you create a clear plan and bring your home across the finish line.