Futurist Architecture

Have you ever dreamed of revamping your backyard into something that will even make the Joneses jealous but don’t want to spend your life savings to do it? Here are ten budget-friendly and easy-to-build ideas to make your patio into a backyard paradise.
1) DIY Grill Station
A grill station is a great gift idea for the grill master in your family. It gives the chef all his tools in one place as well as some extra counter space to prepare the food. Put the grill station on wheels for portability and store it in the garage when not in use. The Outdoor Kitchen Store is a great place to get started.
2) DIY Serving Station
An outdoor serving station is like an outdoor bar on a budget. It’s compatible with small spaces and can be attached to the side of the house. Add a door so it can be closed when not in use, and treat the wood with varnish so it will be protected against exposure.
3) DIY Plant Bench
Sit under the shade of two trees with this plant bench. Recycle an old, wooden pallet and lay it across the pots for extra seating. Paint it for a little extra pop and make the best use of a small outdoor space.
4) DIY Painted Patio Umbrella
Patio umbrellas can be boring, but they have unexpected potential when it comes to decorating. Add a splash of color with latex paint. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy—just a few brushstrokes here and there to give the patio set an artistic touch.
5) DIY Outdoor Bench
Outdoor benches not only add much-needed seating but also have the potential to enrich the outdoor space. Go with deep, rich color for a sophisticated effect. Saws and screws are not needed, so it’s the perfect project for first-time builders. Stick the wood together with some adhesive and have a new bench for just under thirty-five dollars.
6) DIY Tree Swing
Although children will no doubt have their fun, adults can get just as much enjoyment out of a tree swing as well. Not only do they give the backyard a friendly atmosphere, but they are easy to make.
7) DIY Hammock
If your backyard has at least two trees growing relatively close together, you can easily create a backyard sanctuary by stringing up a hammock. All you need is rope and a canvas drop cloth. Make sure the rope has at least a 250 lb. weight limit as well as the metal loop and hook that will connect the hammock and tree.
8) DIY Concrete Fire Pit
You’ll need quick setting concrete for this one, but you can have a chic outdoor fire pit for well under fifty dollars. Another advantage to making a concrete fire pit is it uses gel fuel, which is perfect for quick, thirty minute fires.
9) DIY Side Table
A side table is a nice addition to a small balcony. It’s just big enough to set an iced beverage and a small plate of food on, and it’ll tie together a modest outdoor space.
10) DIY Painted Patio
Go to the local hardware store and pick up some degreaser to clean the cement before putting on the first coat of paint. Make sure the paint is concrete grade as regular paint will chip and peel. A stencil will be a good place to start if you have an unsteady hand or not much experience with painting.
Before Getting Started
There’s no need to spend a fortune creating your dream backyard. All of the ideas listed here can be done for under fifty dollars. You also don’t have to be especially gifted with a hammer or a paintbrush—just a little perseverance and dedication will get the job done.