Spring has arrived here, though we still get the occasional gray, rainy day that feels like winter. The warmer, longer sunny days make me eager to plan our new yard. This is our first spring in the house, so I’m excited to watch the trees and plants awaken and to start imagining what we’ll do with the outdoor space.
That charming house in the photo isn’t mine, but I’ve saved it in my inspiration folder because I love the mood it captures. I’ll be sharing posts soon that show our new exterior and yard so you can see what we’re working with, and I’ll include some of the plans we’ve already started to make.
If you followed along with the outdoor transformation at our previous home—the ups, downs and everything in between—you’ll remember how much I enjoyed creating those side and back yards. Seeing those spaces grow and change was so rewarding. You can view the yard photos, befores and afters in my archives and also find images from that garden featured in my upcoming book, A Lovely Life, which will be released later this spring and celebrates creating beauty in every season.
Our goals for this new property are similar: add small gardens, install gates, and create cozy sitting areas like before. Because this yard is smaller, changes should take shape more quickly and feel meaningful sooner. The compact size means each improvement has a greater immediate effect, which makes the design process especially fun.
We already have two porches and decks, and we’re planning a third, so there are plenty of outdoor spots to shape even though the lot is small. I love working with intimate garden spaces and can’t wait to get started.
In the meantime, the photos here are full of inspiration for spring and summer projects. Enjoy the ideas below and use them to spark your own outdoor plans.
Here are some resources to help inspire you for spring!
Need a soundtrack while you work outside? Check out our Happy Spring music playlist for an uplifting mix to brighten your projects.
A few posts from our outdoor inspiration gallery:
- Simple Ways to Decorate Your Porch for Spring
- Garden Inspiration: Charming Trellises, Arbors and Gates
- 3 Ways to Create a Happy Garden
- 4 Outdoor Rooms: Takeaway Tips
- 9 Elements for Enjoyable Outdoor Spaces
- How to Paint Your Concrete Steps or Patio
- Ideas for an Inviting Outdoor Space
Want more garden and outdoor room inspiration? Explore the outdoor room and garden gallery for additional ideas and photo-driven guidance.
A few posts from our spring decorating gallery:
- How to Make Your Home Feel Ready for Spring
- 24 Simple Ideas to Bring Spring to Your Home
- Inspired By: Fresh Spring Decorating
- Realistic Faux/Artificial Tulips
Looking for indoor spring decorating ideas? Browse the spring decor inspiration gallery for tips to refresh your home this season.
