Turning your yard into a space that feels like a resort isn’t just about spending much money. It’s about using innovative design ideas to make it more relaxing, helpful, and enjoyable. Whether you want a place to chill after work or hang out with friends on the weekend, you can make a few simple changes.

This blog is a guide to help you do just that. It includes easy landscaping tips anyone in Lehi, Utah, can try out—no need to travel far when your backyard can feel like a staycation spot.

Expert Tips to Make Your Outdoor Space Look Like a Resort

• Create Different Zones for Your Yard

Breaking your yard into zones can make it feel more organized. Think about what you want to use your outdoor space for—eating, relaxing, playing, or gardening—and then plan little areas around those ideas.

You don’t need anything fancy. Use furniture, rugs, or low plants to create these zones. For example, put a few chairs and a fire pit together in one spot. Maybe place a picnic table under a tree for meals. Resorts do this all the time. It helps the space feel welcoming and easier to enjoy.

• Add a Water Feature for a Peaceful Vibe

Something is calming about the sound of water. It’s one of the quickest ways to give your yard a resort-like feel. You don’t have to install a full-size pond or waterfall, either. A small fountain or bubbling water bowl can work just fine.

Water features are not only lovely to look at, but they also help block out traffic or neighborhood noise. That’s especially helpful if you live in a busy part of town. If you’re unsure where to place it, try near your seating area or at the center of your yard.

• Use the Right Plants for a Lush Look

One of the easiest ways to level up your landscaping is by using the right mix of plants. Try layering them—short flowers or ground cover in front, medium shrubs in the middle, and taller plants or trees in the back. This gives your yard depth and makes it feel fuller.

If you’re unsure what to plant, go with ones that grow well in Lehi. Drought-tolerant plants or native options will save you time and energy in the long run. To make things easier, you can also contact some of Lehi's best landscape contractors. They’ll know precisely what grows well here and how to arrange things for the most impact.

• Lighting Changes Everything

Lighting can transform your outdoor space from plain to extraordinary. While your yard might look great during the day, it can become lost in the dark once the sun goes down. That’s where lighting makes a big difference.

Use string lights, solar lights along walkways, or soft lights under trees and shrubs. Don’t overdo it—just a few well-placed lights can create a cozy, resort-style glow. Good lighting makes walking around at night safer and keeps your space usable after dark.

• Invest in Comfortable Furniture

You can’t relax if your furniture isn’t comfortable. If you’re going to spend time outside, you’ll want something you can sit in for more than five minutes. Look for cushioned chairs, hammocks, or even an outdoor sectional if space allows.

Also, think about how your furniture is placed. Arrange chairs in a circle for conversation or set them up to face a view if you have one. Add a small table to hold drinks, books, or snacks.

• Keep Your Space Tidy and Clutter-Free

A clean space feels calm. If there’s too much stuff lying around—tools, toys, garden supplies—it can detract from the resort vibe. Keep your yard clutter-free by using storage boxes, small sheds, or even benches with storage inside.

Sweep walkways, trim the grass, and keep plants looking fresh. A little upkeep once a week can make a big difference. Even the best-designed yard can lose its charm if it’s messy. Staying on top of simple chores will always keep your outdoor area looking its best.

Final Thoughts

Making your backyard feel like a resort doesn’t mean turning it into something out of a magazine. It just means creating a space that works for you—somewhere you want to spend time. From adding soft lighting to using layered plants and comfy chairs, small changes can transform your yard.

And if you need some help or want to take your design to the next level, Black Diamond Landscape And Lighting is a great place to start. They’ve helped homeowners all over Lehi turn their outdoor areas into places they love. Whether you’re starting from scratch or just want to upgrade a few things, their team can bring your ideas to life.