Do you enjoy working outdoors in spring as much as I do? I love creating small, special spots in our yard to enjoy through the warmer months. Breaking the yard into manageable projects makes progress feel satisfying and the work is wonderfully therapeutic.
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Today I’m excited to share two new little areas we added to the yard.
When we installed new concrete steps and a patio, a tiny niche appeared beside the stairs. Though small, it was the perfect candidate for a purposeful little spot. (The full side yard and back-of-house makeover — with before-and-after photos — will be finished and revealed in the coming weeks.)
Even a compact space can be useful with the right idea. I decided to make this a potting area for our culinary herbs. Conveniently, a faucet sits nearby for easy watering.
I found the perfect match in a small garden cart from IKEA. It holds pots and supplies and doubles as a charming little greenhouse spot. The compact cart provides storage and mobility, making it easy to tend herbs and move items as needed.
Pink and white pot / plant pot with saucer / watering can / string lights
We’ll also use the cart as a serving station when entertaining outdoors. Because it has wheels, we can roll it next to the BBQ or seating area, which makes it both pretty and practical.
I love how this little cart transformed an awkward, underused corner into a functional and attractive destination.
The second spot I refreshed had been neglected for some time. An outdoor bench with storage and shelving proved to be the inspiration I needed. The bench’s removable lid creates handy storage, and the shelving gives a place for pots and supplies.
Our yard already has many established plants, but a few areas needed filling in. This corner once housed a large tree that had been removed, so it was waiting for new life. I’m looking forward to watching the new plants mature and fill the space.
We’ve nicknamed this area Lily’s Garden because Lily loves to sit here and enjoy the sights and scents. I selected fragrant plants like lavender, lemon verbena, and honeysuckle so the space smells wonderful.
The bench and trellis with a shelf create both a focal point and a functional spot. It’s handy for storing a few tools and supplies close to where we work and relax.
One of my favorite garden features is using low-growing, “steppable” plants around flagstones. Now that we have stones installed, it will be lovely to watch groundcover creep between them and soften the hardscape.
Pillow / watering can / white metal pot / white ceramic pot
I’m partial to white pots and garden accessories — they look clean and fresh against green foliage. I also love the blue-and-white pillows we added; they brighten the area and feel right at home outdoors. I might even repurpose a few pots and pillows indoors later.
Isn’t this outdoor hanging pot charming? It works well with a plant or bouquet, and even empty it adds a sweet accent to the space.
Much better, yes?
Lily is thrilled with her new garden spot and spends lots of time enjoying it.
Jack likes playing nearby as well.
Stay tuned — I have more outdoor projects and spaces to share, including a BIG side yard and backyard reveal coming up soon!
I am a Brand Ambassadör for IKEA U.S. This is a sponsored post.
UPDATE 2019:
See the side patio updates: Spring in Our Outdoor Oasis: A Patio Refresh
