Simple Backyard Upgrades for a More Elevated Outdoor Living Space
Spring and Summer get warm quickly here in the South, but that doesn’t keep us from enjoying our back yard…ALL the time. We love time outside, whether by the pool, playing giant chess, watching the kids jump on the trampoline, or just enjoying the weather. That’s why I’ve found tons of ways to elevate and upgrade our backyard living space so we never want to leave! Sharing all the ideas here – no gatekeeping – let’s go y’all!

Outdoor Buys Worth Every Penny!
Like I mentioned, friends, our backyard is an extension of our home, and we spend a LOT of time out here, so these additions have been worth EVERY single penny! I have tried to be intentional about creating a space that’s inviting yet livable with an elevated resort-style feel that the kids AND adults can enjoy. I had quite a few of these finds at our old house and have added a few new favorites. Let’s get into it!



Mega Chess! Last time we visited Disney, when we weren’t at a park, the kids were obsessed with playing on the resort’s mega chess set, so when I found one we could have here at home, I grabbed it immediately! It’s a bit of a splurge, but they’ve had SO much fun with it, and even the adults jump in on the fun often! It’s super easy to assemble and take down, and the chess pieces are weighted down by sand, so they don’t blow all over the place.


Outdoor Storage – but make it aesthetic! So, we have a couple of fantastic storage areas in the backyard, each serving a distinct and very meaningful purpose! Our Outdoor Potting Bench & Storage Cabinet is closer to the back door and holds towels, sunscreens, bug sprays, smaller outdoor toys, etc., and our Black Waterproof Outdoor Storage Box is out by the pool and holds floats, yard tools, yard decor, and bigger pool toys. They’re both roomy and given an elevated look for the spaces they’re in, which is exactly what I wanted!



If you’re new here – we LOVE FAUX flowers. We love pretty planters AS much. The Concrete Planters come in a set of three and I have a set in the back yard and on my front porch – that’s how much I love them! The Veradek Block planter (middle) has always been another tried-and-true favorite of mine, and it gives any space out back a clean, sleek look. And we can’t forget those gorgeous faux flowers that never fade! Blue Hydrageas, White faux Camellia Trees (middle), and the gorgeous Bougainvillea trees (right).



I get SO many compliments on my Striped 9′ Solar LED Lighted Umbrellas y’all. When I tell you they almost instantly elevate any space they’re in, I’m not kidding! They’re gorgeous at night, too! The Umbrella Side Table they’re in doubles as both an umbrella stand and a table, which, for our busy Summer days and nights, is fantastic – not to mention they’re gorgeous too. And yes, those are pool chairs you see hanging out on the side of the pool, and we can’t forget the super popular pool basketball hoop that’s always a hit in the summer. For a little extra aesthetic flair, we can’t forget our floating, solar-powered pool lights that make the evenings feel even more magical!

And ok, it might not be considered an “upgrade” for adults, but the kids sure do love it, and it’s given us so many fun nights out in the backyard. Our Trampoline is always a hit with the kiddos, and is THE best way to get the wiggles out!
With summer right around the corner, I hope you’re able to make your backyard a gorgeous little oasis as we count down the days until school is out! These finds are budget-friendly and incredibly durable ways to elevate your backyard space, so you can enjoy your Summer days and nights all season long! I have ALL of my Backyard Favorites in my storefront, along with so much more!
Remember, I share tons of Amazon deals every morning on my Facebook page, so be sure to come hang out! Outside of the Newsletter and website, you can find me on Instagram and Facebook, or visit my Amazon Storefront to shop anytime!
Love yall bigger than Texas!
XOXO, Katie
*Post contains affiliate links

