The Outback Blog

Here’s a fun thing to try next time you drive up to your commercial property: pretend you’re not you. Would you want to stop and go in?

Would you want to rent there? Shop there? Do business there? 

How’s your curb appeal landscaping?

Some days, you just want to grill burgers in your robe.

Or lounge on the deck with your hair a mess.

And even if you love your neighbors, you don't necessarily want to watch them skim their pool or wash their dog.

Maybe you love living in the city, but the street noise interferes with your backyard chill.

You need some privacy.

Brick wall? Too fortress-like. Tall wooden fence? Too much work.

Plants might offer just the privacy you need.

Here's a look at some of the best plants to use for privacy, from trees to shrubs, grasses to vines.

There you are, happily standing in the middle of your great new patio or strolling your nifty new deck.

The next big question: How to decorate my outdoor space?

We’ve got you covered, with these outdoor living space decorating ideas from top to bottom.  

You’ll love your stylish new hangout.

The sound of water makes everything better.

Boss driving you crazy, moving up deadlines? Kids bickering over the fudge pops again? Brother-in-law still sleeping on the couch? 

Head outside to your patio, where your bubbling fountain is an automatic stress reliever. Take a stroll out to your gurgling garden pond teeming with koi. Plop down next to your flowing stream and listen to the birds twitter.

Fireplace? Or fire pit?

Either way, we see you toasty and cozy on a chilly Idaho evening, warmed by a flickering glow, sipping hot cocoa topped with a mountain of fluffy marshmallows or warm spiked cider with a fragrant cinnamon stick, captivated by the flames and happily content under the shimmering stars.