Creating a backyard space that’s both stylish and serene is in the cards for 2023. Whether you’ve been banking on a luxurious fire pit or a custom outdoor kitchen, now’s the time to start planning the outdoor living space that you’ve been dreaming of (and saving for).

“The [COVID-19] pandemic taught us to not take our outdoor spaces for granted. Even the tiniest yard can be transformed into an extension of your indoor living or dining space as an oasis for hosting family and friends,” says Tamarra Younis of Union of Art Interiors.

With all that thought and money you’re about to put into the look of your backyard, the last thing you want to do is stay inside the box. You want to toe the line between functional and fabulous while also adding your personal design touches.

If your goal is to create a truly one-of-a-kind outdoor space, here are a few common backyard design moves you should set aside.

1. Staying minimalist with the gardenscapes

More is more in 2023, so plant abundantly.

“In 2023, we expect to see a new approach to gardening with drought-tolerant and native plants,” says Younis. “Instead of the sparse minimalist approach, we are starting to see layered, meadowlike gardens full of native flowers, herbs, and shrubs that attract birds, butterflies, and people alike.”

Younis says this kind of garden can enchant guests with fragrant local plants that are not only sustainable, but also highlight Mother Nature’s magical charm.

Mary Maydan, founder and principal of Maydan Architects, says the biggest rule to be broken is the notion that a modern house must have a straight-lined landscape design surrounding it.

“The new trend is a return to nature, in which landscapers try to make the house feel as if it was planted in the middle of a forest or a wild field,” says Maydan. “We find that it creates a sense of calm and authenticity.”

2. Using bland materials

Joe Raboine, outdoor living expert and director of residential hardscapes with Belgard, says mixing natural materials like wood, stone, and plants with manufactured materials like glass and metal can create a variety in texture and color that transforms a space.

“Homeowners are becoming more adventurous with color and texture,” says Raboine.

When it comes to choosing stones and other hardscaping materials, Raboine says shades of gray are still dominant, but warmer tones like browns, tans, and dark greens are gaining popularity because they add depth and dimension.

3. Thinking pool parties require big pools

Some of the most happening pool parties take place around small pools—plunge pools, in particular.

“Not everyone will want to be in the water at a pool party. People also enjoy being around water, enjoying the reflection, or the movement of the water,” says Karen Larson, co-founder of Soake Pools.

She says small pools provide the opportunity to host pool parties year-round. She says some plunge pools can be heated to hot tub temperatures in the winter, too, unlike most larger pools.

4. Using only concrete

A large concrete patio slab is functional, but it’s not very pretty. Instead, we invite you to dream bigger in 2023 by choosing a more luxurious stone option for your backyard flooring.

“Instead of concrete and pavers, create visual interest outdoors with striking stone selections,” says Nar Bustamante, president and principal designer at Nar Design Group.

Bustamante says his go-to choice is Dekton by Cosentino since it is the most durable, low-maintenance solution with a range of colorways.

“The recently introduced Onirika collection brings movement and contrast to any space from your patio, pool, outdoor bar top, and fireplace,” says Bustamante.

5. Playing it safe with outdoor kitchen design

If you’re planning on building an outdoor kitchen, chances are you’re anticipating it will be a prime gathering spot. So make it special.

“When it comes to outdoor kitchens in particular, most homeowners stick with neutral choices, but the outdoors can be a perfect place to play with bolder colors and styles—as long as they make sense with your home,” says Laurie March, remodeler and designer for HGTV.

March is a fan of the cabinetry options from Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens because they offer a wide range of durable powder-coat finishes.

“These cabinets are perfect for embracing a color you adore while still creating a low-maintenance space,” says March.

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