">HomeOwnerNut

Even though I hail from a people that only see temps above freezing for half the year (and by “people” I mean “people from Michigan”) I have an obsession with outdoor rooms.

And while it’s nice to look at these photo-shoot pictures for inspiration, we can’t all live magazine all of the time.

Some of us actually have to roll up our sleeves and shovel. Without TV crew interns to do all of the work for us. (I’m looking at you, HGTV.) So let’s talk reality people.

Here are some Real DIYers of Genius back yard ideas.

From Corey at Baltimore Row House, this small-yard transformation.

Really, has concrete block ever looked so good? I would have thought going for concrete over grass or wood would have resulted in a cold, uninviting look. Just the opposite in fact with the decorative lighting and built-in planter.

Brooke from The Little Orchard House went with something more organic, but no less inviting…

Her backyard space isn’t done yet, but I love the straw bales anyway. Pretty, practical, and flexible. And they smell good, too.

Sara from Russet Street Reno took one look at her overgrown almost-non-existent patio, and picked up a shovel.

And, a whole lot of pavers later, it’s a lush outdoor space.

I’ve even dabbled in a little outdoor building myself…

And by “dabbled” I mean I broke out the power tools and went to town.

Fit for a magazine? Probably not… but the things that real people do are fit for actually living in a whole lot better.