Backyard

Faded flowers, a pathetic patio, and weeds running wild…little Hannah had to wear a hard hat when she played outside in the backyard! See how award-winning landscape designer Nicholas Walker turned Angie, Mike and Hannah's messy backyard into an outdoor oasis.
Backyard

Nicholas began by removing the clutter. He says to remove any dead trees or branches, trim the hedges and weed!
Backyard

Personalize your outdoor living space and make your backyard special. Take an afternoon and make a family bench! You'll need bags of cement, leaves, and a little imagination.
Backyard

Give a tree a new life by trimming dead branches. You can add a swing or build a bench around the trunk.
Backyard

Think of your backyard as an outdoor living space. Divide the backyard into rooms: a space for eating, sitting, playing and entertaining.

This charming place for the family to gather around the fire used to be an old dirt pile!
Backyard

Tall trees are a great alternative to a fence. Instead of painting an existing fence, try covering it with vines or ivy.

For Angie and Mike, Nicholas planted more trees and added dry river rock. Wherever you live, tie in local elements that are easily accessible, like dry river rocks and indigenous flowers.
Backyard

The outdoor living space needs to include a living space for kids, too! Hannah gets a special treat—her very own playhouse!

The playhouse was donated by Barbara Butler www.barbarabutler.com.
Backyard

Nicholas also included a seating area for Hannah and a friend next to the playhouse and garden.
Backyard

Including a source of water, such as this fountain or a pond, will create a soothing and relaxing experience.
Backyard

Angie and Mike can now enjoy eating outdoors on their new patio! A netted canopy tent will protect them from bugs and adds a romantic touch. It's perfect for entertaining friends!
Backyard

If you plan on planting a large garden, flagstone paths are a great alternative to cement sidewalks.
Backyard

Nicholas Walker recommends companion planting to keep pests away. Plant marigolds around onions, peppers and tomatoes; garlic around roses.
Backyard

You can have the comforts of the indoors outdoors. We hope this magical makeover inspires you to get to work!