How to Turn Your Backyard into an Oasis

Enjoy the vacation feel while at home all summer long by turning your backyard into an oasis. From entertaining in style, to keeping the kids busy, we’ve got you covered!

Upgrade your outdoor furniture

Make your outdoor space seem bigger by creating different seating areas for different purposes. Think a cozy coffee nook for mornings, a lazy hammock for getting lost inside the pages of a summer thriller, lounge chairs for catching the afternoon sun and a patio table for entertaining. If you’ve already got a nice patio set, freshen it up by replacing the cushions and adding some summery throw pillows for a whole new look.

Add a splash of fun

It may be too late in the season for installing an in-ground pool, but you can still have your floating fun with an above-ground pool this summer. Above-ground pools can cost as little as a few hundred dollars or as much as a few thousand for a larger, upgraded model and take a week or less to install.

Make it natural 

Yes, you are already outdoors, but that doesn’t mean you’re surrounded by greenery. Even city slickers can add the natural touch to small apartment porches with potted plants, a container garden or a trellis with climbing flowers. If you want to go all-out to get that resort-like feel, consider building your own waterfall this summer.

Fun for the kids

The sky’s the limit when it comes to outdoor play! Just have fun and let your creativity flow freely. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Put up a rock-climbing wall. If your kids are climbing the walls from being home for too long, try a DIY rock-climbing kit for endless fun that also builds strength and coordination.

Build a swing set. Swing sets provide hours of entertainment, but they can get pricey. Save money by choosing to build it yourself instead of purchasing it pre-made. You will have to swing for materials and maybe the tools, but you’ll still come out ahead. Plus, you can make the construction a family project that will keep everyone involved for days.

Create a natural playspace. Building one is easy — think a small pile of sand, a set of logs arranged as stepping-stones and some tall grass or plants to act as hiding spaces.

Financing your oasis

If you’re short on the cash you need to turn your backyard into an oasis this summer, consider tapping into the equity in your home and applying for a home equity loan from Ideal CU. Learn more about the options available.

Have fun and enjoy the summer months ahead!