Is an out-of-town getaway a “once a year only” dream for you? Well, then, plan on treating yourself to some R&R much closer to home and every weekend, if you wish! We’re back with another post on how to create a backyard getaway for yourselves (see our previous ones here and here). And this time it’s all about bringing the look of a Southwestern Desert Garden to your patio, porch or poolside! (*this post contains affiliate links)
5 Fab Examples for Styling a Desert-style Backyard Getaway
To get you inspired, here are 5 amazing approaches to desert-style outdoor decorating. See which one will suit your garden space – then start envisioning your dream getaway coming to life.
Patio play area
Here, you have no less than the Hyatt Piñon Pointe, a timeshare resort in Sedona, Arizona, to give you a cool idea for a semi-covered recreation area. If you have a patio opening out into your backyard, arrange outdoor lounge seating and snack tables, along with a ping-pong or billiard table, a mini bar, and perhaps your home fitness equipment.
Image credit: Vacatia
Poolside lounge area
The desert sun can get pretty scorching, so a dip in your home pool is always welcome! Especially when it’s complemented with a lazing-around section of your backyard, with casual armchairs and comfy cushions protected by shade-sails.
Image credit: Sunset.com
Outdoor grill deck
For chilly evenings, imagine the luxury of sinking into comfy outdoor seating arranged around a blazing fire pit – and chatting over cocktails and snacks. A chic entertainment area for grownup gatherings, while being perfect for family time, too!
Image credit: The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Dove Mountain, Arizona
Southwestern-style retreat
If you have a patio or a partially-roofed stretch of backyard, transform it into a showcase of Southwest style that you’d love to relax in. Set out metal outdoor sets cushioned in warm desert colors, lay rough stone paving, cover posts with rugged flagstone – and add an outdoor fireplace and small dipping pool for good measure!
Image credit: Century Custom Homes, via Houzz
Inviting relaxation nook
Have only a tiny garden space? Pretty it up with your favorite plants (giant cactus not required!) and arrange a pair of lounge or rocking chairs with a table between them. Such a charming spot to put your feet up and relax, read a book and enjoy a cup of tea or a tall glass of juice.
Image credit: Four Seasons Resort, Scottsdale, Arizona
Editor’s Picks for Desert-inspired Outdoor Decorating
Now, we help you create a similar themed getaway area with furniture pieces, plants and pottery, and fabric and woven accessories – all with that stylishly relaxed and rugged flair of the Southwest.
Outdoor Furniture Pieces
With just a few key choices like these, you’ll have the basics to build upon for your backyard retreat.
1 – All-weather Wicker Andalusia Outdoor Chair – Crafted with a grey-painted iron frame and a durable woven seat of resin wicker. (via World Market)
2 – Wood-slat Trapani Deep Bench with Cushion – Ideal for outdoor relaxation with a deep wood-slat surface with side extensions for perching drinks and snacks, plus a comfy reversible cushion. (via World Market)
3 – Handcrafted Cotton Solid Rope Hammock – The ultimate lazy day must-have, this hammock is hand-woven from unbleached cotton by Maya artists of the Yucatan. (via Novica)
4 – Wicker Club Chairs – The perfect excuse for a staycation! These two club chairs come with comfy water resistant cushions (Ships from and sold by GDFStudio, via Amazon)
Desert-style Plants and Pottery
Think Southwest and you immediately imagine its distinct landscape – stretches of desert, rugged mountains and rock formations, hardy plant life. Capture that atmosphere, even in miniature form, with clay pottery, wood, stones, and lots of cacti and succulents.
1 – Macrame terrarium hanger – DIY a whole bunch of plant hangers like this one from a tutorial on World Market’s Discover blog, give them a modern spin with geo-style terraria, then fill them with assorted air plants and succulents.
2 – Corten steel planter – With that “weathered by the desert air” look, this unique planter made of heavy-gauge steel will be a sure stand out piece in your backyard getaway. (via Wayfair)
3 – Crassula “Moonglow” rare white cactus succulents – Here’s a unique addition to the desert-style greenery for your getaway. Order with ease via Amazon.
4 – DIY succulent planters – These brown paper bag planters we found via Wayfair’s Ideas & Advice have got to be the easiest way to make succulents even more adorable. Imagine them gracing your outdoor retreat!
Fabric and Woven Accessories
Hand-woven rugs, throws, pillow covers, blankets, wall hangings and the like are another distinct component of Southwestern style. What fun to choose some for your special spot!
1 – Southwestern Area Rug – This vibrant area rug features stylized geometric patterns in desert-inspired colors. Ships from and sold by Amazon.com.
2 – Bohemian Woven Wall Hanging – This pair of boho-style mini tapestries are made with cotton yarn and wool on wooden dowels – a crafty touch for your garden nook. (via Amazon)
3 – Boho Fringe Throw Pillow – A hip, rug-inspired accessory with boho flair thanks to that fringe! (via World Market)
4 – Bella Floral 9-foot Umbrella Canopy – Bring instant shade and a splash of color to your getaway with this floral-patterned outdoor umbrella. (via World Market)
We’ll have more posts on backyard getaway inspiration coming up. So keep stopping by!
This post contains affiliate links and Bellenza, Inc. will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking the affiliate links. You can find our disclosure statement here.