Ever since we moved to Swissvale, we’ve emphasized improving our home’s value while simultaneously creating a fun, safe space for the kids to play.
Some of our favorite additions:
A basement swing
A basement hammock
A climbing wall
A bookshelf dedicated to our enormous board game collection
While these updates have been fun, they’ve primarily focused on transforming the indoors through better maintenance and design. But focusing outside is just as important.
And, not to brag, we’ve developed a bit of a reputation for being the fun backyard in the neighborhood.
A sprawling treehouse, a zipline, a built-in slide—our yard has it all! But it didn’t start off that way.
We’ve systematically enhanced our backyard over time, and now we’re going to share some of our best tips!
Unusual Ways to Develop An Awesome Backyard
Sure, you could install a firepit, buy a pool, or install that really cool jungle gym your kids found on YouTube—but there are plenty of other ways to take advantage of what you already have. ‘
Here are a few ways to help you think outside of the box:
1. Work With Your Landscaping, Not Against It
The first time we pictured turning our Swissvale backyard into a workable garden and play area for the kids, we were intimidated.
Much of the yard is on a rolling hill, covered in forest, shade, and tough, unforgiving soil.
Instead of fighting it, we decided to embrace it (and we even chronicled our journey in Developing An Eco-Friendly Yard).
We now have different “levels” of the yard to match our kids’ physical development. For example:
The flat space just outside the back door is perfect for young kids to ride a tricycle or push a toy around on the ground.
The hilly area beyond the level ground is perfect for stronger walkers and runners, and the swing, tree house, and woods offer plenty of electronic-free stimulation for learning and growth.
But here’s one of our favorite parts of the yard: In one hilly area, we simply installed a slide on the ground to help kids and guests travel from one level to another in lighthearted fashion! It’s a fun, whimsical addition, and the kids love it.
Thanks to our willingness to embrace the space we already have, there’s been less need for outdoor toys because there are more built-in opportunities for exploration and development, and that’s been great for the kids.
2. Work With What You Have
One of our goals was to establish a fun, nurturing environment for the kids without digging up the ground or tearing down trees.
Two of our favorite installations were a tree swing and a treehouse—and both blend in with the surrounding vibe.
We chose the tree swing over a traditional swingset for three reasons:
A tree swing is simply more fun. (Sure, we don’t have any scientific evidence to support that claim, but the kids seem to agree!)
A tree swing requires less space. We didn’t need to dig holes in the ground to install a swingset frame—we just tied the rope to a strong tree branch.
A tree swing feels more like a novelty, so the kids and their friends love it.
We put a similar level of thought into the tree house. We considered building a traditional tree house with four walls, a roof, and windows, but we ultimately decided to go with something atypical and open-concept.
Fortunately, my brother’s construction expertise (check out Berna Construction) came in handy. His knowledge of trees and woodworking helped us design a layout that won’t obstruct the tree’s growth while still providing a fun, safe space for the kids to explore.
This experience was a good reminder: Sometimes it’s worth getting an expert opinion, even if you’re an avid DIYer.
3. Let Things Evolve Over Time
If you have the space to play, build, or invent, don’t rush it. Allow the ideas to come organically over time so you can really develop something the entire family loves.
We’re lucky that Ted loves disc golf so much; his fondness for frolf has helped him develop an eye for terrain and a knack for figuring out how to fit unique structures into unusual spaces.
As we’ve become more familiar with the strange, hilly backyard, Ted’s knowledge and vision have helped us gradually find new, exciting ways to improve the space.
A perfect example is our zipline.
When we first moved to Swissvale, Ted spent hours sketching out ideas for the yard—with a major priority being a zipline to travel down a portion of the hill.
That zipline was one of our first installations, and we’ve continued to build around it.
Find A Home You Love
If you’ve given up on your yard and the rest of the house, you may be ready for a complete change of scenery.
We’ve got you covered. We have the tools, resources, and experience to quickly sell your current home and buy a new home you truly adore.
Contact us today to get started!