7 Small DIY Upgrades For Any Sized Outdoor Space

You feel that? It's sunshine beaming down through the clouds — and we have a feeling it's here to stay. With spring in full swing, you're going to want to spend as much time outside as possible, and these super simple backyard decor ideas by our friends at Hometalk will help you create the perfect space to enjoy all that nature has to offer during this most glorious time of year. Each of these projects can easily be completed in a single weekend with minimal effort, so you can spend the rest of your time relaxing in your newly transformed outdoor sanctuary. Whether it's adding an ottoman, creating a beautiful cascading garden, or putting together a whimsical fairy light, here's everything you need to instantly give your backyard a boost, no matter how big or small it is.

Not everyone gets to enjoy a wrap around porch, a vast garden paradise, or a never ending patio, but everyone can enjoy the outdoors. With the warmer weather moving in, any inch of outdoor space you've got should be lounge-ready and enjoyment-optimized, and we know how to get you there. These seven easy DIY upgrades are the perfect mini adjustments and additions to make to your outdoor spaces, no matter how small. So, make sure you’re all stocked up on sunscreen, because you’re going to be getting a lot of sun this spring!

1. Turn a cushion + a basket into an outdoor ottoman

Got an extra basket, bin, or crate you don’t know what to do with? Grab an outdoor cushion (or make your own), and prop it on top for a makeshift outdoor ottoman that doubles as storage space.

Project via Melody @ My Passion for Decor

2. Create a tiled floor with pavers

Maybe your outdoor space isn't pretty yet, but check out how quickly you can upgrade your look, simply by laying down some bricks or pavers. This is also the perfect way to border off some space and visually create a separate area.

Project via Brandi @ Don’t Disturb This Groove

3. Make a patio side table with a terracotta pot

Now, this is the easiest way to get a cute outdoor table in no time at all, and it’s customizable to your space. Simply find the perfect sized terracotta pot and matching tray for your outdoor area, and give it a bright spring look with outdoor paint.

Project via Randi @Dukes & Duchesses

4. Add a cascading garden

You don’t need window boxes or a tiered garden to get that cascading flower look. Turn a shipping pallet into an easy raised garden for your own hanging gardens of Babylon, perfect for adding some natural color to your outdoor decor.

Project via Amy @Her Tool Belt

5. Hang a rustic chandelier

Just because you’re outside doesn't mean you can’t be elegant! Turn a tomato cage and some chicken wire into the ultimate rustic chandelier, and hang it from a bare tree branch or a beam on the porch. Enjoy sipping wine and reading a good book by this soft sparkling light.

Project via Tara @ Crafts Unleashed

6. Plant a vertical herb garden

If you've got an old ladder, we've got the perfect springtime upcycle. Add mini herb planters to each rung for a vertical herb garden that not only smells heavenly, but gives you fresh ingredients for all your favorite warm weather foods. Some mint in your lemonade, perhaps?

Project via Karla @ Small Town Rambler

7. Bring in a whimsical fairy lamp

Light up a little patio table or even a snug outdoor reading corner with this dazzling fairy light. This is a super easy and adorable way to add some shine to your yard, and it doubles as decor in a pinch.

Project via Heather @ Woods of Bell Trees

For many more outdoor decor ideas, check out our outdoor living page on Hometalk!