35 Family-Friendly Backyard Designs

Turf can double as a kid’s play area as well as a court for games that people of all ages can enjoy — like bocce ball. “Having that turfed space is a really nice way for the family to let the kids be able to play and run around and then still have a clean space for entertaining and adult time,” says Scott Frankel, co-president and principal of Frankel Building Group + Avea Pools.

A treehouse is a place for kids to call their own and become immersed in their own little worlds. “To encourage imaginative play, I like to create a cozy clubhouse up high that gives kids a real sense of getting away from it all,” says treehouse and play structure designer Barbara Butler. “I think it’s important for the clubhouse to be different than the family home — more of an outdoorsy cabin, more fun colors and features.”

There’s nothing like a good old-fashioned plank-and-rope swing for adding simple charm to your yard. They’re also ideal for smaller yards that might get overcrowded by a large play structure. Design by Mom’s Design Build.

Fire pits are perfect spots for quality family time, whether it’s cooking s’mores or just warming up cold hands. For DIYers, making a festive fire pit is as easy as purchasing a fire pit kit and encircling it with colorful Adirondack chairs. Design by Jenna Sue Design Co. and Lowe’s Home Improvement.