Mid-Century renovation of a Ralph Fournier 1953 ranch house in suburban St. Louis. View of renovated rear patio area with new soffits and siding, bluestone patio, and rock garden.

palm springs mid-century remodel

Gary Fredricks Landscape Design

Photo of a large mid-century modern backyard stone landscaping in Los Angeles with a fire pit.

Prestonwood Modern Angular Pool + Cabana

Randy Angell Designs

Example of a mid-sized 1950s backyard concrete and custom-shaped pool design in Dallas

Mid-Century Modern South Tampa Home

Landscape-Fusion

Ledge Lounger in pool loungers make for a wonderful accessory in this modern pool design. All of our pool builds feature Hayward Pool Products.
Inspiration for a mid-sized 1960s backyard concrete paver and rectangular pool landscaping remodel in Tampa

Rancho Mirage Mid-Century Modern

Lane Design + Build

Huge mid-century modern backyard patio photo in Los Angeles

Mid-Century Ranch | Ramada

Greey Pickett

The renovation of this Mid-Century Ranch features the reintroduction of native plant species highlighted with steel planters, steppingstones, a ramada and small fountain. Landscape Architect: Greey|Pickett Architect: Clint Miller Architect General Contractor: Sonora Sunset Construction Landscape Contractor: West Point Landscaping Photography: Steve Thompson

High Garden

H3K Design

Patrick Ketchum
Inspiration for a mid-sized 1960s backyard concrete and rectangular lap hot tub remodel in Other

Latimer Road Project

Campion Walker Landscapes

Campion Walker designed and built the pool as an inner courtyard and intimate transition from inside to outside living for a dynamic young family. Peaceful pathways shaded by native oaks, sequoias and soft, elegant drought tolerant plants accent the cool, crisp lines of home and poolside.

Mid Century Home

WARREN SHEETS DESIGN, INC.

Inspiration for a large mid-century modern backyard water fountain deck remodel in San Francisco with no cover

Contemporary style pool with silver travertine deck and custom water feature

Thrasher Pool and Spa

Mid-sized mid-century modern backyard stone and custom-shaped pool fountain photo in Atlanta

Rancho Mirage Mid-Century Modern

Lane Design + Build

Hot tub - mid-century modern backyard rectangular lap hot tub idea in Los Angeles

N Rose Project

Shields Residential Inc.

Example of a mid-sized 1950s backyard concrete and rectangular pool design in Los Angeles

Lake Paupac Cabin Remodel 2

J.B. Nicholson Architecture

Ben Nicholson
Inspiration for a large 1960s backyard concrete paver outdoor patio shower remodel in Philadelphia with a pergola

Via Estrella Residence

Michael Wenrich Architects

Ryan Begley Photography
Example of a large 1950s backyard concrete patio design in Orlando with a fire pit and a roof extension

Belclaire Residence

Domiteaux Garza Architecture

Photo: Charles Davis Smith, AIA
Example of a mid-sized mid-century modern backyard concrete pool design in Dallas

Classic and Clean

Vernon Wentz

Looking for hints of whites and grays this pool and spa has it. With a water feature wall, spa and a tanning shelf with lounge chairs this pool is meant to relax and enjoy. The landscaping has a modern flair with clean lines and cement pots for accent pieces.

Morongo

User

Ketchum Photography
Pool - large 1950s backyard concrete and custom-shaped natural pool idea in Other

Outdoor Lounge / Fire Area

Tharp Studios

Inspiration for a small mid-century modern drought-tolerant and full sun backyard gravel landscaping in Other with a fire pit for spring.

Mid-Century Renovation

Canopy Gardens

Design ideas for a large mid-century modern partial sun backyard landscaping in Omaha with decking.

"Original" Rattan Living Room Furniture by Sika-Design

Country Gear Ltd.

Example of a mid-sized 1960s backyard patio design in New York with no cover

Mid-Century Modern Backyard Design Ideas

Even though outdoor spaces are often overlooked, yard renovations and redesigns frequently pack the biggest punch. Your mid-century modern outdoor living area is your first chance to inspire and make an impression on neighbors and guests, so sprucing it up can give your blah house a much-needed boost. When browsing 1950s outdoor decorating ideas and remodel inspiration, keep in mind the following advice to make the most out your great outdoors: Because such dramatic changes can cost a pretty penny, it’s important to carefully consider all 1960s outdoor ideas before delving in. Set your budget ahead of time, and work carefully with your designer to make sure you stick to it. Research materials and landscaping techniques that are appropriate for your location and style, and don't forget add the plan for the final touches, like outdoor decor and furniture, to complete the space.

What are my mid-century modern outdoor design options?

When making changes to your 1950s front yard or backyard, be sure to consider what makes sense for your home and the local weather. For those in dry desert climates, avoid water-thirsty grass and opt for less-thirsty alternatives, then invest in a pool that will keep you and the neighbors cool in the heat. For more mild climates, a pool may not be the most practical of outdoor ideas, but a hot tub or unique water feature could be just the right element for you. On top of thinking about climate, consider maintenance as well. If you have the time and energy to work outdoors every weekend, a flower or vegetable garden would be a worthy investment. If all that effort isn't in your future, consider a nice rock garden, pond or intricate hardscaping instead. Finally, think about what works for your family. Some plants and flowers are poisonous for pets, and kids should have plenty of space to run around and play with friends, whether it be grass or pavement. Ultimately, yards should act as 1960s outdoor rooms, so plan them that way.

How do I create an mid-century modern outdoor room?

During the summer, your outdoor designs become key for entertaining and should flow like an extension of your indoor space. With a few key components, your patio, porch or deck can easily be turned into an entertainment haven; after all, when the weather is nice, most people don't want to be stuck indoors. To make your 1950s outdoor living space really feel like part of the house, create an outdoor kitchen, complete a grill, prep station, countertop and mini fridge. To become the neighborhood party house, you should also invest in a fire pit and hot tub, which are both great outdoor ideas for those cooler nights. If expensive renovations are out of your reach, new outdoor furniture and accessories are great for a cheap yet effective end result. A typical concrete patio or front porch can get a major makeover by simply implementing a few easy 1960s outdoor decorating ideas, such as new furniture cushions and string lighting, or some brightly colored pots and accent statues. Take a look at a variety of pictures and mid-century modern outdoor design ideas to draw inspiration for your own space.