Do you enjoy working outside in spring as much as I do? I love carving out small, special areas in our yard to enjoy during the warmer months. Focusing on one small project at a time makes progress feel manageable and is wonderfully therapeutic.
Sponsored by IKEA
Today I’m excited to share two new little spots we’ve added to the yard.
When we installed new concrete steps and a patio, a small niche next to the stairs was left unused. It’s a tiny area, but I saw potential for a useful purpose. With a nearby faucet, it seemed perfect for a small potting or herb station for our cooking herbs.
I found the ideal solution at IKEA: a compact cart that fits the space and holds pots and supplies. The little greenhouse on top is absolutely charming and makes the area feel intentional and tidy.
Besides serving as a potting station, the cart doubles as a serving cart for backyard entertaining. With wheels, it’s easy to move near the grill, so it’s both decorative and practical. Turning this awkward spot into a dedicated destination made a big difference in how that corner feels.
The second area I refreshed had been neglected for some time. I brought in an outdoor bench with storage and a shelving unit that inspired a small garden project. The bench’s removable lid is perfect for storing cushions, tools, or small supplies, making the spot both beautiful and functional.
Our yard already has many established plants, but this particular corner needed attention after a large tree had been removed. I planted a mix of fragrant varieties to create an inviting sensory spot that will fill in over time.
We call this spot Lily’s garden because she loves sitting there to enjoy the scents and sights. I chose lavender, lemon verbena, and honeysuckle for their fragrance — together they create a lovely, dreamy aroma.
The bench and trellis with a shelf now create a focal point that’s also practical. It gives us a place to store a few tools and keep potted plants organized, which makes tending the garden effortless.
I love planting low, spreading “steppable” plants around flagstones so they grow between stones and soften the path. Adding flagstones here was a small change that will look lovely as the plants fill in.
Pillow / Watering Can / White Metal Pot / White Ceramic Pot
I’m really fond of the white pots and garden accessories we used — they feel fresh and timeless. Blue-and-white pillows add a pop of color and make the bench feel inviting; I may even repurpose them indoors later.
The hanging pot we added is sweet and versatile. It works well with a potted plant or a simple bouquet, and even empty it looks charming against the backdrop of the garden.
It’s so much better now that the area feels cared for and intentional.
Lily is thrilled with her garden and spends lots of time outside enjoying it.
Jack enjoys playing nearby as well, so the space is both beautiful and family-friendly.
Stay tuned — I have more outdoor projects and spaces to share, including a full side yard and backyard reveal coming soon.
I am a Brand Ambassadör for IKEA U.S. This is a sponsored post.
UPDATE 2019:
See the side patio updates in my follow-up post about refreshing our outdoor oasis and patio.
