There’s nothing better than spending lazy summer days soaking up the warm weather in our very own patch of paradise – our backyards!

It’s where we play, relax and gather, so it’s only natural that we want our backyards to become an oasis – somewhere to escape and be with our loved ones. And whether you’re hosting a shindig, or just want to enjoy the beautiful weather, there are a few mod-cons that take the humble backyard from so-so to sublime.

Landscape expert and Adbri Masonry brand ambassador Jason Hodges has created the DIY projects we can all tackle this summer, and they’re more cost effective than you think!

“There are lots of great and simple projects that can be done in the backyard that will complement the home and spruce up the outdoors, ready for summer. It’s a great way to get the whole family involved and enjoy our beautiful climate,” explained Jason.

Here’s a look at three DIY projects to do in your backyard this summer.

Outdoor Shower

If you’re close to the beach (lucky you!) or have a pool, an outdoor shower is a fabulous addition to the backyard. And if you don’t have anywhere nearby to take a dip, an outdoor shower can provide a cool escape from summer’s blistering heat, as well as a tranquil space to connect with nature.

Jason says you need to consider a few things before attempting a DIY outdoor shower, including plumbing points, privacy screening and a sustainable water management system. And think about the products you’re using; Adbri Masonry’s Ecotrihex Permeable Pavers which are specially designed to allow water to permeate through the surface into the layers below where water can be harvested or redirected. Surface water runoff is minimised and the need for additional surface drainage is reduced.

Outdoor Pizza Oven Or BBQ

Once you’ve had a pizza cooked in your very own backyard pizza oven, you’ll never go back! Jason recommends using Adbri Masonry’s Versaloc® to create the perfect base for a BBQ bench top or pizza oven. The dry stack system is easy to lay, doesn’t require any mortar or glues, and gives a clean finish.

“The beauty of these blocks is, with no glue or mortar required to keep them in place, you aren’t stuck to one location. If you want to move your BBQ in the future, you can easily do so. Another great advantage, you can paint, render, or even clad the blocks to match the look of your outdoor entertaining area. Adding a wood fire pizza oven can really make that outdoor area your favourite room of the house,” said Jason.

Built-In Furniture

Creating pockets of seating in your backyard adds to the ambience and designates areas of rest from areas of play. Jason says you can easily construct custom, freestanding walls that double as seats. To achieve a neat contemporary look, use Adbri Masonry’s Versasmooth® which provides a smooth, flat surface texture in a range of colours. Just add some outdoor cushions and a cosy throw to soften the look and make the area look even more inviting!

What backyard projects will you be tackling this summer? Let us know in the comment below.