Close-up of the Frank Lloyd Wright Garden Sprite sculpture It is an authorized reproduction of the full-sized sculpture that was created for the Midway Gardens in Chicago (1913-14). Renn Kuhnen Photography

Updating the Existing

Marilyn's Dreamscapes L.L.C.

Design ideas for a mid-century modern landscaping in Chicago.

Skokie Mid-Century

Calafia Design

Photo of a mid-century modern landscaping in Chicago.

Find the right local pro for your project

Find top design and renovation professionals on Houzz

The Grove Round Rock Deck (TimberTech)

TimberTown

An expansive multi-level TimberTech deck at a new venue in Round Rock, TX. Built by Jim Kelton of Kelton Deck.
Huge 1960s backyard deck photo in Austin with an awning

Backyard Hillside Drought-tolerant Design

Flores Artscape

Inspiration for a large mid-century modern drought-tolerant, desert and partial sun backyard river rock landscaping in Los Angeles for spring.

Riggs Residence

Green Works Construction & Design Inc.

Inspiration for a large mid-century modern metal railing balcony remodel in Los Angeles with no cover

Saratoga

HWH Home and Garden

Belagard Pavers - Catalina Grana Toscana and Aspen border.
Inspiration for a mid-sized 1960s backyard concrete paver patio remodel in San Francisco with a fire pit and no cover

Learn More

A gravel path beckons guests

Eve's Garden Design

This native-CA rich front yard welcomes guests with a custom arbor, large boulders, and naturalistic plantings.
This is an example of a mid-sized mid-century modern drought-tolerant and full sun front yard gravel and wood fence garden path in Other.

Reinterpreted Mid-Century

Marc-Michaels Interior Design

©Edward Butera / ibi designs / Boca Raton, Florida
Huge mid-century modern backyard rectangular pool photo in Miami

Cliff May Rancho 1

Avenue 39 Landscape Design

Design ideas for a mid-century modern landscaping in Los Angeles.

Toyopa Drive- Pacific Palisades

Groundswell Landscape Design

Inspiration for a mid-century modern landscaping in Los Angeles.

Vista House

The Design Laboratory

Jacob Costello
Photo of a mid-century modern landscaping in Phoenix.

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.

Get a Free Quote

palm springs mid-century remodel

Gary Fredricks Landscape Design

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

Mid-Century Modern | Arapahoe Acres

Blu Design Group

Example of a 1960s patio design in Denver with a fire pit, decking and a gazebo

Bonifield Residence

Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture

This is an example of a mid-century modern side yard landscaping in San Luis Obispo.

Landscaping

Green Value Landscape + Design

Design ideas for a mid-century modern front yard landscaping in DC Metro.

Mid-Century Modern Outdoor 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.