TL;DR
A couple inherited a small, overgrown yard that was unsafe and unusable. They hired professionals for excavation and built their own furniture, creating a functional and inviting outdoor space. The project significantly expanded their home’s living area and aesthetic appeal.
A neglected, overgrown yard was professionally excavated and transformed into a functional, stylish outdoor space, with the homeowners building their own furniture to save costs. This project has expanded their living area and improved safety, making the yard a key part of their home.
Heather West and her husband inherited their 1950s home on eight acres, with a yard that was initially an overgrown, unsafe area. The couple hired a landscaping company to excavate the yard, build a paver patio, and install a fence at a cost of approximately $13,000. Following the excavation, Heather planned the design, including painting the house exterior a deep blue. Her husband, Nick, built moisture-resistant furniture from cedar, suitable for the Pacific Northwest climate, including a sectional, dining table, and wall art, all at a fraction of the cost of buying similar pieces. The new outdoor space features a clear rain cover that allows light in even on gloomy days, creating an extension of their indoor living area. Heather describes the finished yard as a retreat that makes their small house feel much larger, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical outdoor living.
Why This Yard Makeover Matters for Small Homes
This transformation demonstrates how homeowners can turn an unusable, unsafe yard into a valuable outdoor living space through professional help and DIY efforts. It highlights cost-effective ways to expand home comfort and functionality without major structural changes, inspiring others with limited outdoor space to maximize their property’s potential. The project also underscores the importance of safety and aesthetics in outdoor upgrades, especially in regions with challenging weather like the Pacific Northwest.
DIY cedar outdoor furniture kit
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Background and Steps in the Yard Revival
The yard was originally an overgrown, forest-like area that posed safety risks due to plants growing close to the house siding. The homeowners decided to improve the space after living in the house for some time. They hired a landscaping company to excavate the yard, build a paver patio, and install a fence, investing around $13,000. Post-excavation, Heather designed the outdoor layout, including replacing a window with a sliding door. Her husband built moisture-resistant furniture from cedar, suitable for the rainy Pacific Northwest climate. The project took about a year, culminating in a functional, aesthetically pleasing outdoor retreat that extends the home’s living space.
“It makes our small house feel much bigger and is just the perfect retreat.”
— Heather West
paver patio installation kit
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Remaining Questions About the Yard Transformation
It is not yet clear how durable the DIY furniture will be over time or how the yard will hold up to seasonal weather changes. The long-term maintenance plan and potential further enhancements are still being considered, and the overall impact on property value has not been formally assessed.
outdoor rain cover for patio
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Next Steps for the Homeowners and Their Yard
The homeowners plan to monitor the durability of their DIY furniture and may add additional features such as lighting or plantings. They also intend to enjoy their outdoor space regularly and may share their project process with others interested in similar transformations. Further updates on the yard’s maintenance and any additional improvements are anticipated in the coming months.
fence panels for yard
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Key Questions
How much did the entire yard renovation cost?
The professional landscaping and excavation cost approximately $13,000. The homeowners built their own furniture, saving thousands compared to buying similar pieces.
What materials did they use for their DIY furniture?
They used cedar wood, which is moisture-resistant and suitable for the rainy Pacific Northwest climate.
How long did the project take?
The entire process, including excavation and DIY furniture building, took about a year to complete.
Is the outdoor space suitable for entertaining?
Yes, the finished patio includes a dining area, sectional, and coffee table, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings and relaxation.
Will they make further improvements?
The homeowners plan to add lighting and possibly other features, with ongoing assessments of durability and usability.
Source: Apartment Therapy
