As Steve Hedberg, president of Hedberg Home Brick + Stone, aptly states, “People love the outdoors, and it’s a great place to connect with family and friends in a less formal setting.”

So, it’s no surprise Minnesotans are seeking ways to infuse their outdoor areas with ambiance, transforming them into inviting retreats of relaxation, entertainment, and enjoyment. Whether you enjoy hosting summer soirées or simply desire a tranquil sanctuary, here are some expert tips to add ambiance to your backyard.

Seamlessly Blend Indoor-Outdoor Spaces

While it’s easy to think of your backyard as an entirely separate space from the interior, these two spaces should work harmoniously. “Ideally, the outdoor space becomes an extension of the indoor living area,” explains Tracy Hains, founder and CEO of Che Bella Interiors.

One way to do this is to install large sliding glass doors or folding walls that open up your indoor living area to the backyard. This boosts visual appeal while creating a fluid transition from one space to the next.

In terms of design elements, Hains suggests considering the views between both areas. “Create sightlines that draw the eye toward architectural details or focal points that make a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Choose landscaping elements, materials, and colors that echo or complement the architectural features, materials, and color palette of the house.”

Incorporate Landscaping & Hardscaping

When it comes to the backyard, thoughtfully designed landscaping and hardscaping work hand-in-hand to enhance its beauty and tranquility. “Hardscaping is not just necessary; it’s essential to a successful landscape project,” Hedberg explains. “The right hardscaping can create whatever feeling or wonderland you and your family dream of to play, eat, or relax with each other and your pets or friends.”

Natural materials like brick and stone add a sense of permanence and timelessness to your outdoor space and allow you to segment the backyard into different zones based on intended use. Masonry “can be used to delineate individual settings for activities such as cooking and sharing a meal, sitting areas with a fire pit or fireplace, or a feature wall or design element,” Hedberg says.

“More livable outdoor space can be added to the property by using retaining walls to maximize the outdoor living space,” adds Clarissa Cooper, senior landscape designer at DreamScapes Landscaping & Design. “Retaining walls can allow the patio to be extended out or built into a hillside.”

To soften hardscape areas, use lush and vibrant landscaping featuring plants native to Minnesota. “Select plant material with different heights, textures, and colors to complement the space and add changing interest through the seasons,” Cooper advises.

Add an Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor kitchens have become an increasingly popular backyard feature in Minnesota, allowing homeowners to cook, dine, and entertain alfresco. When designing your outdoor kitchen, Hains suggests prioritizing functionality and durability.

“Start by considering the layout and flow of the outdoor kitchen. Position cooking appliances, countertops, and storage areas for efficiency and convenience. Create zones for preparation, cooking, serving, and cleaning.” When selecting appliances and materials, choose durable, weather-resistant options to ensure your outdoor kitchen withstands the elements.

Incorporate Outdoor Fire Features & Lounge Areas

Nothing adds ambiance quite like a fire feature in your backyard. While classic fire pits and tabletop fire features are popular options, especially in smaller spaces, more and more homeowners are incorporating outdoor fireplaces and inserts in their backyard design.

“A well-designed fireplace insert can serve as an architectural focal point in the outdoor area. Whether your design is sleek modern lines, rustic stone accents, or elegant traditional details, the fireplace insert draws the eye and anchors the space, adding visual interest and uniqueness to an outdoor space,” says Renee Shimek, Vice President of Glowing Hearth & Home. “Create a comfortable outdoor seating area around the fireplace insert with weather-resistant furniture, cozy cushions, and blankets for cooler evenings.”

Install Outdoor Lighting

Illuminate your backyard with strategically placed lighting to increase its beauty and functionality after the sun sets. “Lighting adds dynamic enhancement to the outdoor living area and elevates the ambiance for evening entertaining,” Cooper notes.

Incorporate pathway lights, string lights, and accent lighting to boost ambiance, improve safety, and highlight key features such as fountains, lounge areas, and architectural elements. Opt for energy-efficient LED fixtures and smart lighting systems that can be operated remotely for added convenience and versatility.

Make Your Backyard Enjoyable Year-Round

Finally, consider ways to make your outdoor space enjoyable in every season. Install a pergola or retractable awning to provide shade during hot summer days and shelter during rainy weather. Invest in outdoor heaters to extend the usability of your backyard well into the cooler months. With thoughtful planning and design, your backyard can be a sanctuary for relaxation and entertainment year-round.