10 May 7 Outdoor Design Principles to Help You Build a Backyard You’ll Never Regret
Designing a backyard can feel overwhelming. Where do you put the fire pit? How do you make the space feel cozy and connected? And why does that curvy patio just… feel weird?
We get it — you don’t want to pour time and money into a space that doesn’t actually get used. That’s why we came up with our 7 simple design principles to help people like you create outdoor spaces that feel good, flow well, and invite you (and your friends) to actually use them.
Let’s dive in.
1. The Caveman Principle
Do you ever walk into a room and just feel exposed — like something’s off but you can’t put your finger on it? That’s exactly what this principle solves.
We’re wired for comfort and safety. Imagine a caveman backing into a cave with the fire at the front — protected behind, alert to what’s ahead. The same goes for your patio. If your seating area has a wall, fence, or even some shrubs behind it and a good view of the rest of the yard in front, you’ll feel more relaxed. It just feels right. That’s the Caveman Principle.
2. Creating Hallways
You shouldn’t have to awkwardly tiptoe through a maze of chairs to get to your grill. That’s why we always plan for clear, natural hallways in a design.
Each space — the kitchen, fire pit, seating areas — should feel like a destination, not an obstacle course. Traffic should flow smoothly from one area to the next. If your guests are side-shuffling through your furniture, it’s time to rethink the layout.
3. No Curves Without Representation
We’re not here to curve-shame, but let’s be honest — a random kidney-bean-shaped patio usually just ends up feeling… weird.
Our take? If you’re going to use curves, make sure they do something. A curve should lead somewhere, connect two elements, or frame a focal point. Otherwise, go with strong, intentional shapes — squares, circles, straight lines — that help organize your space and make it feel purposeful.
4. The Coffee Spot
Everyone deserves a little slice of privacy in their yard — especially first thing in the morning when you’re just trying to sip coffee in peace.
The Coffee Spot is your private retreat. Ideally, it’s right off your back door, so you can step outside — pajama-clad and barefoot if you want — and feel hidden from the world. Maybe it’s tucked behind a privacy screen or nestled in landscaping. However you do it, having a designated private corner makes your space yours.
5. Big Rocks First
Don’t sweat the small stuff. When designing a space, always start with the “big rocks” — the most important elements to you.
That might be a bar with the perfect view, a cozy fireplace, or an outdoor kitchen. Place those first, then connect them. It’s like a game of connect-the-dots — once you have your anchors in place, the rest of the design just falls into place.
6. The Kitchen Window
If you’ve ever been stuck doing dishes while the kids are outside, you know the value of a good view.
The Kitchen Window principle is about visibility. Can you see your kids playing? Can you check the fire pit from inside? It’s not just about safety — it’s about feeling connected to what’s happening outside, even when you’re not out there. A good layout brings peace of mind and makes you want to join in.
7. Memories Lost
This one’s a little sentimental — and probably the most important of all.
We call it “Memories Lost” because if you can’t see your outdoor space from inside, you’re way less likely to use it. That perfect fire pit? If it’s hidden behind a shed, it’ll sit empty. But if it’s right in your line of sight, it’ll call to you. You’ll text a friend, grab a blanket, and head out.
Your backyard should invite you back outside — again and again. Because the more you see it, the more you use it… and the more memories you make.
Watch It Come to Life
Want to see how these design principles actually play out in real backyards?
In this video, Micah walks through several real-world examples using a whiteboard to sketch out his thought process. Whether you’re a visual learner or just want to peek behind the curtain of how we design outdoor spaces that feel right, this is the perfect next step.
Ready to Design a Space You’ll Actually Use?
Still not quite sure how to lay it all out? You’re not alone — even the best yards need a thoughtful design to really come to life.
Schedule a call with Micah and let’s create an outdoor space you’ll actually use, love, and never regret.
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