TL;DR
A small, overgrown yard was professionally excavated and transformed into a usable patio by homeowners Heather and Nick, who built much of the furniture themselves. The project expanded their outdoor living space and improved safety. Details on the process and future plans remain ongoing.
Heavily overgrown and unusable, a yard on Heather and Nick’s 1950s home was transformed into a functional outdoor space after professional excavation and DIY furniture building, significantly enhancing their outdoor living experience.
Heather and Nick inherited their small yellow house on eight acres of forest, with an outdoor space that was overgrown and posed safety concerns due to plants growing close to the siding. They hired a landscaping company to excavate the yard, build a paver patio, and install a fence, at a cost of approximately $13,000 over a year. The couple then made DIY furniture, including a sectional, dining table, and wall art, using moisture-resistant cedar suitable for the Pacific Northwest climate. Nick built these pieces with materials costing only a few hundred dollars, saving thousands compared to buying similar furniture. The new patio includes a clear rain cover that allows light in, providing a comfortable outdoor extension of their home. Heather describes the space as a retreat that makes their small house feel larger.
Impact of DIY Yard Transformation on Small Homes
This project demonstrates how professional landscaping combined with DIY furniture can maximize small outdoor spaces, creating functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing areas. It highlights cost-effective ways to enhance home value and outdoor comfort, especially in regions with challenging weather like the Pacific Northwest. The transformation also underscores the potential for homeowners to personalize their outdoor spaces without extensive commercial investment, making it relevant for others seeking similar upgrades.
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Background of Yard Neglect and Homeowners’ Renovation Goals
Heather and Nick inherited their home on eight acres, with an outdoor space that had become overgrown and unsafe. Recognizing the potential of the natural surroundings, they decided to improve the yard by removing the overgrowth and creating a usable outdoor area. The project involved both professional excavation and construction, as well as DIY efforts to furnish and decorate the space, aligning with their goal to expand their living area and enjoy their property more fully.
“Heather describes the space as a retreat that makes their small house feel larger.”
— Apartment Therapy
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Remaining Details About the Yard’s Long-Term Use
It is not yet clear how the yard will hold up over time, whether additional landscaping or maintenance will be needed, or if the homeowners plan further upgrades. The durability of the DIY furniture in the long term and how the space will be used seasonally remain to be seen.
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Future Plans for Outdoor Space and Maintenance
The homeowners are likely to continue maintaining and possibly expanding their outdoor area, with plans to add more features or furniture. Monitoring the durability of their DIY pieces and adjusting the landscaping as needed are probable next steps. They may also share their experience to inspire others considering similar projects.
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Key Questions
How much did the entire yard renovation cost?
The professional excavation, patio, and fencing cost approximately $13,000. DIY furniture building cost only a few hundred dollars in materials.
What materials did they use for the DIY furniture?
They used moisture-resistant cedar, which is suitable for the rainy Pacific Northwest climate, to build their furniture, including the sectional, dining table, and wall art.
How long did the entire project take?
The yard renovation and outdoor setup took about a year, including professional excavation and DIY furniture construction.
Are there safety concerns with the yard now?
Yes, the professional excavation and fencing improved safety by removing overgrowth and preventing plants from growing close to the house siding.
Will they add more features to their outdoor space?
While not confirmed, it is likely they will continue to enhance the yard, possibly adding more furniture or landscaping features in the future.
Source: Apartment Therapy
