10 tips for transforming your rental courtyard this summer

With summer just around the corner, now is an exciting time to transform your rental courtyard into a space you will love and enjoy spending time in.

Sjanna Sandalova

There is no denying that West Australians love spending time outdoors, especially during the festive season.

With summer just around the corner, now is an exciting time to transform your courtyard into a space you will love and enjoy spending time in.

Here are 10 ways you can spruce up your courtyard, no matter its size, without needing the permission of your property manager or rental provider.

1. Start with a blank canvas

After a wet winter, your courtyard might be looking messy and neglected. The best starting point for transforming your outdoor space is by doing a big cleanout.

Get rid of any weeds or debris from recent wild weather, throw out any junk that has accrued over time like boxes, furniture or rubbish that may be laying around.

De-cluttering this space will allow you to envision your dream courtyard without any eyesores in the way.

2. Add some greenery

Even if your courtyard does not have any plants or trees, that is okay! There are plenty of outdoor potted plant options you can get to add some greenery to your outdoor space.

A pot plant or two can really transform the atmosphere by adding colour and texture to the space. You can also get as creative as you want with the pots which can also add a personal touch!

If you have the space and are thinking about adding plants or trees into the soil, make sure you check with your property manager and get approval first.

3. Add some lighting

Lights are such an affordable and easy addition to your courtyard. You can add some fairy lights or festoon lights to create the ultimate entertainment space for when the sun goes down.

Or, for a more romantic mood you can add some lanterns or candles around the place.

4. Make some DIY bench seats

You don't need to break the bank to get some trendy outdoor furniture for your courtyard. If you go to Bunnings, there are plenty of materials you can get to create the ultimate bench seat.

For example, get a couple of besser blocks and planks of wood and you have yourself a stylish seat.

If DIY is your thing, the possibilities are endless. Make a day of it with your friends and get building!

5. Throw in an outdoor rug

If your outdoor area has shade, then that is great for rugs and furniture. However, if you don't, you can still find plenty of weatherproof rugs that are protected from the sun and rain.

Outdoor rugs are a great element to any space. They add a touch of warmth in winter and are a saviour for bare feet in summer.

6. Slide in a decorative screen

If your courtyard is bound by boring fences, find a decorative screen to act as a backdrop.

There are so many colourful, trendy screens out there you can find for your courtyard. From the Italian breeze brick look to an earthy bamboo screen - just pick your theme and get shopping!

7. Add some comfort

With your DIY seats you will need some comfort! Add some cushions or pillows to your outdoor furniture for a cozy element. Use this as an opportunity to add some colour as well as comfort.

This will be handy on those late-night summer naps after dinner with friends.

8. Get some shade

If your courtyard has no shade, consider buying an umbrella. Umbrellas are an easy way to add shade to your courtyard without making physical amendments to the property.

Adding this element of shade will also mean you can spend more time out there in summer.

9. Add a mirror

Adding a mirror is the best way to enlarge your space and enhance all the new aspects of your courtyard.

For a rental friendly option, consider a free-standing framed mirror and position it so it captures the most open spaces of the courtyard.

10. Buy a portable planter box

Another creative DYI project that you can use as a flower bed or herb garden. This is great for those courtyards with no good soiling or space for root garden beds.

You can paint these any colour and choose whatever plants you want in them. Whether it is growing your own herbs or adding some hanging plants, this is a nice way to add greenery and take it with your wherever you go.