There’s something truly special about spending time outdoors. Your backyard isn’t just extra space; it’s an extension of your home. And if you’re like us, you’re always looking for ways to make it more inviting, more functional, and a true reflection of your style.
That’s why we’re excited to talk about designing an outdoor space that feels both personal and polished, without compromising on durability or design. We’ve partnered with Polywood, a brand that’s redefining eco-friendly patio furniture, to bring you our favorite design tips, styling ideas, and standout pieces to help turn your backyard vision into reality.
Start with a Strong Foundation: Your Furniture Matters
Before telling you about colors, cushions, or planters, start with the essentials. Your furniture is the anchor of your outdoor space, and it needs to strike the right balance between form and function. This is exactly why we chose Polywood. Their products are not only stylish, but they are also crafted from recycled materials, making them an ideal choice for those of us trying to be a bit kinder to the planet.
One of the biggest wins for us? How tough their pieces are. This isn’t the kind of furniture you’ll need to replace after one rough winter or a super-hot summer. We’re talking seriously durable outdoor furniture that holds up to the elements year after year, with minimal maintenance.
Creating Contrast and Comfort
Creating good contrast is a must! For instance, you can choose to go with a black and white color scheme. You can use the black Chippendale dining set from Polywood as the main piece. The deep color pops beautifully against the natural green backdrop of the yard, and it gives the entire space a crisp, clean look. To soften the bold lines of the furniture, you can add white seat cushions, which not only bring a cozy vibe but also make the seating more comfortable for long dinners and lounging.
When designing your backyard, don’t be afraid to use contrast. Darker furniture pieces ground the space visually, while lighter textiles bring warmth and softness. It’s a combination that always works.
It’s All in the Details
It’s easy to focus on the big pieces when designing a backyard, but the little touches are what really bring the whole look together. One of our favorite things about Polywood is how well their designs pay attention to those details.
Layering in accessories makes a big difference, too. Outdoor rugs help define zones and add that homey feeling, while candles (especially citronella for bug control) create instant ambiance for those laid-back summer nights. Don’t forget about the pillows, either. The Outdoor Bolster Pillows from Polywood are perfect for neck support when sunbathing, and their shape adds some visual interest to your setup.
Plan for Longevity
One of the biggest mistakes people make when choosing outdoor furniture is treating it like an afterthought. You wouldn’t buy a flimsy sofa for your living room, so why go cheap on your outdoor pieces? Especially if you live in a place with intense seasons, you need furniture that’s built to last.
We recommend going with dark tones for your main furniture pieces, which makes cleaning easier and helps them hide wear better. Then, you can mix in lighter or brighter accessories—pillows, blankets, planters—to keep things fresh and fun. Polywood’s entire line is engineered to resist fading, cracking, and peeling, so you can relax knowing you’re making a smart investment for the long haul.
Think Beyond the Furniture: Landscaping Completes the Look
Your outdoor design doesn’t end with the patio furniture—it begins there. Some of the best backyard landscaping ideas are actually what surround and frame your seating area, bringing the whole space to life. Even if you’re not much of a gardener, adding potted plants or raised garden beds can make a big impact. We especially love combining low-maintenance greenery like boxwoods or ornamental grasses with a few bold statement planters for a balanced, stylish look.
Lighting is another major element. Think about installing soft solar-powered lights along a path, string lights overhead for a romantic vibe, or even some lanterns on the table for an elevated finish. These touches might seem small, but they all contribute to a more layered, thoughtful space.
Choose Function with Style
Your outdoor space should work just as hard as your indoor spaces. One of the best backyard design ideas we’ve come across is designing your outdoor setup to suit multiple purposes. You want spots for lounging, dining, socializing, and maybe even some quiet solo time. Polywood makes mixing and matching pieces across collections super easy, so your space can feel cohesive but still serve different needs.
For example, a client we know paired their dining set with a couple of Adirondack chairs on the side for casual hangouts, and a small coffee table nearby for holding drinks or snacks. This allows people to naturally move between zones without feeling like the space is disconnected.
Design with the Planet in Mind
As you’re putting together your outdoor space, don’t forget the environmental side of things. One of the reasons we love Polywood so much is because their furniture is made from recycled plastic, meaning you’re reducing waste while also getting furniture that’s tough enough for all seasons. It’s a win-win.
Choosing eco-friendly patio furniture doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort anymore. Polywood proves that you can have both. You get the peace of mind that comes with a sustainable product and the satisfaction of a backyard that truly feels like home.
Final Thoughts
Designing an outdoor space doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with quality, durable outdoor furniture, focus on color and comfort, and build from there with small details that reflect your personality. Whether you’re drawn to clean modern lines or a more traditional look, Polywood has you covered with pieces that are as beautiful as they are tough.
The key to a successful backyard design is blending style with function. Think about how your space will be used and who will be using it, then build it out with comfort and durability in mind. Trust me, when everything comes together, your backyard will become the go-to hangout spot for family, friends, and even solo relaxation.
Feeling inspired to transform your outdoor living space? Explore the wide selection of Polywood furniture for sale at Spas of Colorado. From full dining sets to cozy lounge chairs and everything in between, we offer pieces that suit every style and space.
Looking for a standout piece? Browse our curated collections of Polywood patio sets to find the perfect match for your backyard. Whether you’re starting from scratch or simply refreshing your setup for the season, Spas of Colorado offers the quality, variety, and service to help you create the outdoor oasis you’ve always wanted.
