How to make a dirt yard look good?

The solution – build a pathway using stepping stones or gravel to minimize direct contact with muddy areas . Alternatively, you can install a deck or a patio over the mud using budget-friendly materials like concrete pavers or composite wood. A concrete surface can also help.

How can I make my back yard pretty?

Consider planting a thicket of fast-growing shrubs to buffer your patio, deck, or porch . Try planting a variety of shrubs (types and sizes) in a triangular pattern. This will provide widespread coverage and look more natural rather than adding a single type of plant in a row (which looks odd if a shrub suddenly dies).

Why is there no grass in my yard?

Compacted soil that inhibits nutrients including water from reaching the roots will inhibit the growth of grass . This problem can be eliminated by regular aeration. Getting sunlight and air down into the roots is absolutely crucial.

How to landscape under trees where grass won't grow?

The easiest solution is to simply mulch the area . Leaves, pine straw or other mulching materials can be applied 4 to 6 inches deep over the areas under a tree where grass no longer grows well. This is relatively inexpensive and easy to do and, I think, looks very attractive and natural.

How can I smooth my yard without killing grass?

Topdressing with quality topsoil or compost could be your best solution for minor problems. Cut the lawn or affected area very short before topdressing. It'll be easier to see the area and level the topsoil. Apply no more than ½” at a time and gently level it without completely covering the grass.

20 Backyards Without Grass That Still Look Stunning (2024)

Room Design

Outdoor Spaces

Sarah Lyon

Sarah Lyon is a freelance writer and home decor enthusiast, who enjoys sharing good finds on home items. Since 2018, she has contributed to a variety of lifestyle publications, including Apartment Therapy and Architectural Digest.

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Published on 04/23/23

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20 Backyards Without Grass That Still Look Stunning (2)

While many people picture a backyard and imagine a large, green space, maybe with a swing set and a small patio, not all backyards fall within this category. If you're faced with a no-grass backyard of your own and are struggling with how to make the most of your outdoor space, you'll want to keep reading.

Below, we're sharing 20 of our favorite no-grass backyards that are sure to provide you with inspiration, whether you're designing a poolside lounge area or living somewhere in the countryside.

01 of 20
Combine Concrete and Gravel

This backyard combines the best of several worlds—a gravel area adds textural flair and elegance, while a patio easily accommodates seating of all kinds. If your backyard allows, carving out a bar area can add an extra festive, hotel-like touch. The grass running through the concrete looks ultra luxe, too.
02 of 20
Install a Grill Area for Entertaining Galore

This no-grass backyard is made for entertaining thanks to its large grill area, which is just begging for the party to get started. So what are you waiting for? Invite everyone over for burgers and hot dogs followed by a jump in the lake, and you're guaranteed to be the most popular family in the neighborhood all summer long—we promise.
03 of 20
Grab a Seat by the Fire

See Also
13+ Unique Small Backyard Ideas with No Grass to Create a Cozy Outdoor Space 10 Small Backyard Ideas No Grass: Transform Your Yard With These Fun and Creative Solutions 11 Low-Maintenance Backyard Landscaping Ideas Without Grass 10 Ways to Create an Amazing Garden Without Grass - Small Space Garden Pros
Come night time, everyone will want to cozy up by the fire pit in this spacious no-grass backyard. When the sun is shining, the seating area is perfect for reading and even working.
04 of 20
Make Room for a Covered Dining Area

This pool area backs right up onto a lake, making for a super serene view. A covered area allows for outdoor dining without the presence of too much sun during the hot parts of the day.
Continue to 5 of 20 below
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Set Out Plenty of Chairs for Lounging

Pull up a chair! This backyard allows for plenty of space to kick back by the pool. Lounge chairs are excellent for sunning and reading, while a bench and coffee table are ideal during mealtimes.
06 of 20
Brighten Your Space With Lots of Lights

This tiered backyard offers poolside lounging as well as an upper area for socializing. Be sure to brighten things up with a few lanterns or some string lights so that you can enjoy your outdoor space after the sun goes down.
07 of 20
Get Comfy by the Water

Make the most of life at the lake by purchasing comfy outdoor furniture and cushions. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the peaceful view.
08 of 20
Grab Some Umbrellas for Maximum Comfort

Don't forget the umbrellas! Bring a beach resort feel to your own home by outfitting your backyard with all the essentials—stylish lounge chairs, outdoor pillows, and yes, something to protect you from the sun's rays.
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09 of 20
Embrace a Darling Country Look

Not all no-grass backyards are by the pool or lake, though. This one has a quaint, countryside feel, thanks to the gravel and stone pathway and classic wrought iron furniture. We can imagine sitting out here for a cute afternoon tea party.
10 of 20
See Also
Side Yard Ideas Without Grass: Creative Alternatives for a Low-Maintenance Landscape - No Lawns
Create the Perfect Patio With These Essential Pieces

If your backyard is solely a patio area, you can still make the most of it with the right combination of furnishings. A dining table, bench, side table, and fire pit are all you truly need.
11 of 20
Say Yes to Yellow

Funky curved furniture isn't just for inside the house. Add a little personality to your backyard by opting for a curved sofa, for example. Then, don't forget to add pops of color in the form of pillows and throw blankets. Why not think outside the box a bit with a bold yellow?
12 of 20
Make It Minimal Yet Practical

Fun egg chairs shine in this minimalist yet welcoming no-grass backyard. The yard features different zones for eating and relaxing and feels quite spacious due to its thoughtful layout.
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13 of 20
Don't Forget to Design With Plants

Plants are the ultimate backyard accessory. If your no-grass backyard is feeling a bit sparse, it's easy to jazz up your surroundings with a few green friends—or a ton. Use plant pots as centerpieces or scatter some succulents around your space.
14 of 20
Design a Private Oasis

You can also use plants and tall trees to make your backyard feel more lush and secluded. It's easy to carve out your own little private slice of paradise.
15 of 20
Set Up the Ultimate Outdoor Lounge Space

Jump in the pool, then hop out and warm up by the fire pit...ahh, bliss! There's no better way to spend a summer night at home, if you ask us.
16 of 20
Arrange Some Poufs

A curved sofa fits perfectly in this outdoor space and can accommodate the whole crew. Poufs serve as an additional form of seating, but you can also turn them into side tables as needed—simply place a tray on top. They're lightweight and easy to move around the yard as you need, too.
Continue to 17 of 20 below
17 of 20
Install a Safety Gate Around the Pool

If you have young ones running around, you'll want to keep your pool area gated off for safety purposes. This allows the rest of your no-grass backyard to serve as a family-friendly area for lounging.
18 of 20
Try This Acrylic Version for Maximum Style

Not a fan of metal? An acrylic barrier like this one is a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to a standard pool gate. It's barely there visually yet ultra functional at the same time.
19 of 20
Get Ready for Fun

If you have older children and do not need a gate around the pool, a setup like this one is tons of fun. If your backyard has a small patch of grass—or even sand—install a play area complete with a slide and swings.
20 of 20
Create a Cozy Escape

All typesof seating, moody candles and string lights, and plush accents prove that no-grass backyards can be ultra cozy. You could even set up a projector out here to watch movies as the sun goes down.