Designing your outdoor space doesn’t have to be complicated (if anything, it should be dreamy, creative, and tailored to you). Regardless of your wishlist, any honest professional will remind you that success comes from focusing on a few smart choices that work for you... and that you shouldn't chase every design trend.
For DIYers, this means learning where to spend, where to simplify, and how to plan for both today and tomorrow. From lighting and materials to front yard curb appeal, here are five lessons homeowners can take from the pros to improve any project.
1. Do as the Builders Do: Keep It Simple
“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from working alongside builders is that less is more when it comes to materials," shared Michelle Hendricks, Director of Marketing at Deckorators. "It’s not uncommon for a project to stall for weeks because a homeowner was overwhelmed by the number of choices."
She cited trends noted in Home Innovation Research Labs, explaining that builders are focusing more on durable, low-maintenance materials that stand the test of time. Homeowners can take the same approach.
"When you make thoughtful choices upfront, whether it’s decking, railing, or landscaping elements, you reduce stress, save time, and create a space that looks great and performs beautifully over the years to come."
DIY outdoor design often works best when materials are easy to care for. A wood deck may look nice at first but will need regular upkeep. A composite deck costs more upfront but lasts longer with less work. The same thinking applies to railings, planters, and yard paths. Fewer decisions also make projects less overwhelming.
2. Upgrade Wisely and Make Every Investment Count
“We always encourage homeowners to think about upgrades that give the most impact for their investment," noted Hendricks. "With renovation budgets predicted to grow by only 1.2% by mid-2026, it makes sense to focus your spending dollars on projects that deliver clear value, both in terms of resale and your daily life."
Decks and pergolas are a great example of this. "New decks can offer an ROI of 80% or more, while pergolas can increase the sale price by 2% and reduce time on the market by 9 days."
She adds, "I’ve seen families completely transform how they make the most of their outdoor space by investing in just a few high-impact features."
Thoughtful upgrades bring lasting curb appeal. Instead of spreading a budget across too many small projects, get more by focusing on one or two. Don't overlook the potential in resale value.
For those interested in new home curb appeal, even small touches like a new walkway or fresh paint on trim can lift the look without overspending.
3. Sometimes All You Need is Good Lighting
An investment in exterior lights goes a long way. From uplights beneath trees to downlights that illuminate gardens and pathways, it's "easy" to build a gorgeous landscape.
“Something as simple as subtle path lights or a spotlight on a favorite tree instantly changes the mood of a yard," shares Hendricks. "The effect is even stronger when paired with layered landscaping: taller shrubs or trees in the back, medium-height plants in the middle, and smaller flowers or grasses in the front. This layered setup gives your lighting something to play off of and highlights depth and texture at different levels."
Don't underestimate the power of string lights or solar stakes. They're affordable, and an easy way to add dimension to your space.
4. If You Have a Front Yard, Use It
For those focused on DIY outdoor design, turning a front yard into usable space is one of the fastest ways to change both curb appeal and day-to-day living.
“Front yards are evolving from a place purely designed for curb appeal to true living spaces," observed Hendricks. "[They're being turned] into places for morning coffee, weekend gardening, or even casual entertaining just by making a few simple changes."
If you’re starting a front yard project, remember that maintenance matters. Keep it low-maintenance now, and you'll thank yourself later.
Hendricks recommended the following ideas:
- Raised planters are an easy way to introduce greenery without major upkeep
- A small stone path can create structure and guide movement
- Movable seating allows you to adapt the space for different occasions.
"With gardening now a new hobby for 31% of homeowners, especially men ages 35-45, there’s an exciting opportunity to reimagine the front yard as an extension of your home that reflects your lifestyle," she noted.
5. Pace Yourself: Plan for Change
CRAFTSMAN’s Driven to DIY report shared that 38% of DIYers say they underestimate how long a project will take, but with some projects, they may never be completely "done."
"It’s good to remember that your outdoor space doesn’t have to be finished all at once," emphasized Hendricks, as if she knows me all too well. "Families grow and lifestyles change, which is why flexibility matters so much."
Modular decks and multi-use patios are two features that are easy to adapt over time. They give you the options to add shade, create dining areas, or expand gardening areas without starting from scratch.
"By thinking ahead about how your needs might change, you can ensure that your outdoor space keeps working for you instead of boxing you in," she explained. "Even small steps, like leaving room for a fire pit, adding extra outlets for future lighting, or choosing furniture that can be rearranged will give you more options down the road."
Outdoor projects don’t have to be all-or-nothing, and that's a big take-away for any DIYer.
FAQ
What outdoor projects add the most value to a new home’s curb appeal?
This list is ever-changing based on labor and materials costs, but here are some datapoints that have crossed our inbox:
- Driveways. Expect up to 100% ROI. "Driveways, in particular, can add a lot of value," shared Jon Grishpul, Co-CEO of Greatbuildz.com. "This is particularly true if you have an unpaved driveway or can expand the driveway to be wider."
- Refinish your patio. If all it needs is simple maintenance or repairs, experts say you can get 500% ROI.
- Garage doors. Expect upwards of 268% ROI. "It's one of the projects that doesn't cost a fortune compared to other home improvement projects, and cost recoup is 268%, according to Cost vs. Value by Remodeling magazine," noted Mike Brickner, President, Precision Garage Door Service, a Neighborly company.
- Vinyl siding? Replace it for 96% ROI. Or, paint your vinyl siding to explore a new color palette.
What are some easy DIY curb appeal upgrades for beginners?
Simple updates can have a big effect. Painting the front door, adding planters with seasonal flowers, and installing solar path lights all improve curb appeal without major work.
How can I stretch a small budget for outdoor design?
Pick one or two upgrades with the highest impact. A deck, a new walkway, or outdoor lighting delivers both beauty and function. Avoid spreading your money across too many small projects that don’t add up.
