What better time than now, when you’re spending more hours in the fresh air, to take your outdoor living space to the next level? Getting your dream backyard—not to mention maintaining it—takes a lot of work. If your space is looking a little unloved, consider these upgrades that will have you enjoying your outdoor space in no time.

Establish a Focal Point or Create an Outdoor Room Effect

Adding something as simple as an iron trellis will give your garden an instant facelift! According to SFGATE, a major news website, decorative trellises are actually one of the more versatile garden structures. With enough creativity, not only can a trellis obscure a view you’d like to hide, but you can draw the eye to areas of your yard that you would like to feature. You can even create a magical garden room effect by surrounding your seating area with them and choosing some colorful climbing plants!

Light Up Your Yard with an Outdoor Fire Pit

Nothing beats spending time with friends and family while roasting marshmallows and sharing stories around a roaring fire. Homeowners who install an outdoor fire pit will not only create charming memories but will also realize a 67 percent return on investment. Fire features that have a gas burner and patio area cost an average of $6,000 to construct, and you’ll recoup about $4,000 when you sell your home, according to the National Association of Realtors®’ (NAR) and National Association of Landscape Professionals’ (NALP) 2018 Remodeling Report: Outdoor Features. If you’re ready to add a warm glowing ambiance to your backyard, check out this article we found: No Money to Burn? 9 Fire Pits You Can Afford.

Add a Water Element

Adding a fountain or pond to your backyard can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. According to HGTV’s Chris Lambton, most water features have the same basic pieces—a liner, a pump, and an electrical source—making them fairly easy (and inexpensive) to install yourself. Whether you choose an earthy vibe or a modern concrete design, a water feature can elevate your backyard’s relaxation factor and act as a mini stress reliever. And, after all, isn’t that one of the main reasons to have a pretty, well-maintained outdoor space?

Brighten Up Your Iron Railing

If you’re like many homeowners, you’ll have some sort of railing, whether it’s around the pool or your patio deck. Iron Railings on their own bring structure, texture, and definition to your outdoor space. If you want to add a little more color but not sure how, brighten up you place with some colorful flower pots with draining holes and hooks so the plants inside can thrive while they sit there looking pretty.

Create a Beautiful Entrance to your new Oasis with an Iron Gate

Adding a beautiful custom iron courtyard gate to your yard could be the little extra elegance you are looking for. A custom ornamental garden gate with a design that aligns with that of your home can be a great addition. Iron gates are not only aesthetically pleasing but are very sturdy and long-lasting additions that are low maintenance.