Living

7 Things Landscape Designers Always Include in a Backyard Plan

By Keena Al-Wahaidi Dengarden

Updated June 20, 2026 6:52 AM

arena photography — Nick Night / Unsplash

Summer is ideal for lots of endeavours we can't fully enjoy in the winter. An activity that's always most missed though is soaking in our backyard spaces.

There's just something about a put-together backyard that makes being outside so worthwhile. Think polished lawns, perfect lighting and flowers that smell like summer will never end. It's also a place to look forward to gathering in after work or during a meal, a prime area for spending time with our friends and family.

In fact, having a "defined gathering space" can make our backyards so much more liveable, according to Joe Raboine, vice president of design at Oldcastle APG.

"We are constantly craving more time with nature," he says. "Creating a dedicated space that makes nature accessible should always be part of your backyard design plan."

Ahead, we spoke with landscape designers who share what exactly goes into crafting a great backyard plan.

1. Sitting Space

According to landscape designer Caroline Ervin, owner of Caroline Ervin Landscape Design and The Georgetown Garden Shop, being able to enjoy your backyard means sitting down and taking it all in.

That could even include a smaller patio with room for two to sit, she says, so that you can invite conversation into the great outdoors.

"Every backyard garden needs a place to sit and enjoy the outdoors and breathe fresh air," says Ervin. "For dining, allow for a minimum of three to four inches around each side of the table so that it's easy to sit down. For a lounge space, allow for at least eight inches by eight inches of space for about two to three chairs."

2. Sun Protection

Having a source of shade in a backyard plan is ideal for many reasons. Raboine advises to "consider the sun: when thinking of what elements you want for your backyard.

It's important to weigh in on where the sun will hit at different parts of the day, and what areas you'll spend the most time, he says.

"Ensuring you have shade options will help make the most of your outdoor space," Raboine explains. "If mature trees aren't available to you, consider a pergola. This provides sun protection while also keeping views open."

3. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow

If you ask Raboine, having a good flow between your indoor and outdoor space is not a new idea, but it's "become a standard in outdoor living."

"Design your backyard to have easy access from the kitchen or main living areas, which will only increase its usability," he reveals. "A covered porch, deck or hardscaped patio can easily connect to the home. Innovations in doors and windows, including pass-through windows, make it easier than ever to bridge the gap."

4. Softening the Patio With Greenery

Especially near a dining area, softening your patio with plants can really make a difference, says Ervin.

According to her, you can do this by adding in "low, evergreen or flowering plants nearby and a tree and shrubs to frame spaces on at least one side."

5. Layered Lighting

Who doesn't love some fun lighting at home?

In a backyard, Raboine says that it adds a great sense of ambience but also "safety and functionality."

"Consider undermount, pathway or accent lighting for your space," he shares. "This will extend usability into the evenings and also provide a point of security for the home."

6. Comfortable Circulation

Sometimes, designing the inside of your home can be a similar experience to putting together a backyard. By including good circulation in your backyard plan, you'll be able to ensure good flow outside, says Raboine.

"Outline walkways and clear movement throughout the space, especially if you have designated rooms in the backyard," he explains. "A professional contractor can help design seamless transitions from zones and materials, such as from decking to hardscapes, in a way that feels organic and natural."

7. A Focal Point

In general, outdoor spaces "can benefit from a focal point," says Raboine.

Pinpointing which area you might be in the most will help you figure this out, he reveals. From there, you should consider what might tie your backyard together at a single point.

"Whether that's a fire pit, water feature, outdoor kitchen or statement landscaping, consider where you want to spend your time and where you would want guests to go first," explains Raboine. "Fire pits and water features can also add enjoyable ambiance to an outdoor space, either though warmth or auditory privacy."

This story was originally published June 20, 2026 at 6:15 AM.