The yard is an extension of the home and often the first thing visitors see. Homeowners must pay special attention to this area of their property to create a truly lasting impression. One way to achieve this is by adding color, design, texture, layers, and other elements. When done thoughtfully, the yard can become an inspirational space that adds value to one’s home. Check out the list of 12 inspiring landscape construction ideas for the next project.

Add quaint fencing
To add interest to a plain lawn, add quaint fencing. Not only will it work wonders to set the home apart from the neighbors, but it will also provide a little character without taking away from the overall polished finish of the home.

Consider structured greenery
Create an artistic yard by interplaying brickwork and green space, such as boxwood spheres and hedges. This idea works especially well for traditional homes that are looking to add just a touch of modernity without losing their charm.

Install a stone partition
Alternatively, seek inspiration from the past and install a stone partition in the yard. Make it multi-functional by using it as a separator and/or setting up a pergola on it to create a private, relaxing, and shaded sitting area surrounded by greenery.

Put up window boxes
In small homes and compartments, finding the space to put up a garden can be difficult. Circumvent this issue by installing window boxes to create a lovely little garden. To add more aesthetic value to this set-up, install a few hanging lights or lanterns and give the home a comfortable, inviting finish.

Add a faux plant wall
For homes with small backyards, a faux plant wall may be a great element to add. Not only does this add height to the space to increase interest, but it also adds a pop of color. The best part about it? It can completely be customized to one’s preferences. Just look for faux fir or other green panels, set them in a frame, and prop them up against the wall. Thanks to this little hack, the piece does not require any maintenance at all, allowing it to look great all year round.

Build a seating platform
Homeowners looking to transform their large yards must consider adding a hardscape, that is, opting for tiles and furniture instead of grass. A far cry from their traditional use, this is a great way of adding an extra room as well as a pop of color to the house. Look for playful tiles, and complete the look with easy-to-maintain chairs and tables to create a seating platform. Create a stone path to the area, and cover the rest of the space in lush greenery to create a calm and inviting environment.

Create an integrated landscape design
Find a way to blend local design cultures into the home. This technique, also known as integrated landscape design, creates a balance between one’s home and the surroundings, allowing local flora and fauna to thrive. Since it can be quite technical, it is best left to professionals who use landscape construction management software to oversee the entire project. The software provides the user with multiple design options to choose from. Additionally, it helps them keep track of every aspect of the construction process, such as creating a budget, estimating material requirements, scheduling staff, managing subcontractors, and more.

Add mini water features
Who doesn’t love the pleasant and soothing sound of trickling water? Recreate this at home for a private retreat using mini water features. Many design options are available in the market, so homeowners can match their pieces with their home’s aesthetics to make a relaxing environment that also supports one’s spiritual journey as well.

Alternatively, think of placing a modern water fountain around the courtyard or the sitting area. This, too, helps create a relaxing zone, and offers the local birds a little drink whenever they need it.

Construct a raised patio
Add a ton of dimension to the yard by creating a multi-layered patio. This is a great idea for homes in drier locations. Use the lowest space to create a walkway with elevated planters on the side. Have stairs leading up to an enclosed patio to give the feeling of walking up to a country outhouse.

Place a garden shed
If an outhouse sounds too big, opt for something smaller, like a garden shed. Create a dedicated pathway that leads up to the shed, surrounded by a vegetable or herb garden, to add greenery and purpose. The shed can double up as a storeroom for gardening and lawn equipment, a space for taking on larger projects, or just a room to unwind.

Set up a fire pit
To enjoy the pleasant weather during colder nights, you can set up a fire pit in the middle of the yard. This is a lovely idea for those with large families or those who love to host. It will quickly become the focal point of any yard, serving not only as a space to socialize and stay warm but also to cook meals or roast marshmallows for a night of bonding.

Construct an outdoor shower
An outdoor shower can be a stunning element of interest to any yard. This may be especially appealing for those with a large pool in their backyard. Let the shower blend in with the architectural style of the rest of the house. To make it appear grand, add a tile and stone pathway and decorate it with large, bright, and fluffy towels.