Don’t be discouraged if you’re on a budget. Pick one part of your yard to focus on at a time. Start small with one-off purchases that make a difference visually as soon as they’re unboxed, such as new plants or a dining set.

Consider taking on smaller DIY projects you can do yourself on your own timeline with more affordable materials:

• Hang string lights for cozy ambient lighting.
• Paint your patio for an artsy wow factor.
• Upcycle wooden crates to create rustic outdoor tables and decor.
• Construct a small sandbox or sensory table for playtime with your kids.
• Build a raised garden bed using poplar wood, which is affordable yet sturdy.
• Thoughtfully arrange stones and an outdoor rug for an instant meditation space.

Every small project you check off your list is a step closer to a yard you’ll love and your very own Yardtopia.