"Vertical elements, such as tree canopies or trellises ... square pavers—which double as a walkway—frame a "sunken patio," with concrete stairs leading down to the main seating area.

You have options if you're looking for a budget-friendly upgrade for your plain concrete patio. This DIY lets you go from ...

Your backyard is your personal part of ... A simple way to do this: Extend a cable from tree branches or poles set in concrete and hang inexpensive fabric screens. You can also hang the screen ...