Embrace Outdoor Living

A large patio can replace much of the lawn and create a space for gathering and entertaining. Add comfortable seating areas surrounded by planted garden beds.

A wide garden path with a focal point such as a fountain can reduce lawn space while guiding guests to different areas of the backyard.

Any remaining grass can be maintained with a small push mower.

Arrange patio furniture so guests can move around the main seating area rather than through it. Make sure every seating area has convenient entry and exit points.

Carve Out a Slope

A sloped backyard can make lawn maintenance difficult. Instead of maintaining grass on the slope, transform it into a usable outdoor space such as a seating area.

A pergola can provide shade, while a stone retaining wall can hold soil and plants in place.

A water feature such as a waterfall can take advantage of the natural slope and create a soothing atmosphere.

Embrace a Minimalist Look

Traditional lawns can require significant amounts of water, which can be a concern in drought-prone areas.

Replace lawn with drought-tolerant ornamental grasses for a soft and low-maintenance landscape.

Water-permeable gravel and large concrete pavers can be combined with ornamental grasses to create a stylish landscape that conserves water.

Widen a Path

Expanding garden paths can create additional usable space in a no-grass backyard.

An extra-wide flagstone pathway can lead to a spacious patio and can also function as additional seating during large gatherings.

A pathway approximately four feet wide allows two people to walk comfortably side by side.

Spread Out

When adding a deck or patio, make use of as much of the available yard as practical.

Create a main seating area and add smaller spaces or niches for intimate gatherings and specific activities.

These smaller areas can include container gardens, fire pits, or cozy seating areas for two.

Swim, Don't Mow

Even a small backyard can be transformed into a resort-like outdoor retreat.

Replacing lawn with an in-ground swimming pool can create a central focal point and provide a space for family activities.

The pool can also connect several smaller entertainment areas within the backyard.

Plant a Slope

Maintaining grass on a steep slope can be difficult and tiring.

Instead, create a wide path through terraced garden beds filled with drought-tolerant plants.

Stacked stone walls can help stabilize the planting areas, hold soil in place, and define the landscape.

Consider a Courtyard

A tired lawn can be replaced with a gravel courtyard to create a welcoming, low-maintenance outdoor space.

Circular concrete pavers can be incorporated into the gravel to create structure and comfortable walking areas.

Use Every Square Inch

A no-grass backyard should make effective use of all available space.

In a small urban yard, tightly fitted flagstone pieces combined with river rock and low-growing plants can create a natural, easy-care environment.

A composite deck can anchor another part of the yard.

Sheared evergreens, bamboo, and small trees can add greenery while also providing shade and privacy.

A tree does not need to be large to become a focal point. Proper placement is more important than size.

Mix Materials

Small outdoor spaces can appear larger when different paving materials are used creatively.

Using patio bricks in complementary patterns can draw the eye through a narrow backyard and make the space feel wider.

Separate small patio areas with different materials, such as strips of concrete, to visually distinguish the spaces and create the impression of a larger yard.

Grow Food

Vegetables generally grow well in conditions similar to those preferred by turf, including full sun and well-drained soil.

Replacing lawn with a vegetable garden can provide much more practical value than maintaining grass.

Rows of lettuce, carrots, greens, and other crops can supply fresh produce for meals while eliminating some lawn maintenance.

Deck the Yard

Wet or uneven ground can be difficult to maintain as lawn.

A large raised deck can provide a dry, usable surface over challenging ground conditions.

A deck also creates additional space for entertaining while eliminating much of the mowing and weeding associated with lawn.

Plant a Garden

Instead of spending time and money maintaining a lawn, use the space to create a lush garden.

Planting beds can be filled with colorful flowers and edible plants.

A garden can provide fresh flowers and vegetables while also supplying food and habitat for birds and butterflies.

Plan for Family Fun

Removing the lawn alone is not enough to create a relaxing backyard. Design the space around how the family intends to use it.

Gravel and large concrete pavers can define an outdoor entertainment area and create a dedicated space for a fire pit.

For drought-tolerant landscapes, make sure the soil drains well. Adding grit or pea gravel to heavy soil can help prevent waterlogging.

Mimic Nature

A traditional manicured lawn can require significant maintenance because other plants naturally try to grow into it.

Instead, allow plants and trees to develop in more natural, organic forms.

Avoid excessive straight lines and hard edges. Let shrubs and perennials spread naturally around stone pathways.

This approach reduces maintenance and creates a more natural-looking garden.

Keep Seasons in Mind

Reducing lawn area creates more opportunities for comfortable outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Consider the characteristics of each season when planning the backyard.

For autumn enjoyment, surround patios with shrubs and trees that provide strong fall color.

A portable fire pit can extend the usability of the outdoor space by providing warmth during cool evenings.