12 Beautiful Canadian Backyard Escapes Perfect for Fall

If you have the luxury of space, consider building a rustic oasis in your very own backyard. Brian McCourt and Sarah Keenleyside of Backyard Builds brought charming cottage flair to the city when they transformed one couple’s yard into a private outdoor escape – complete with a fire pit for cool autumn nights – within the urban jungle. See more details on the backyard renovation.

Designer Paul Lafrance helped one couple transform their backyard into a beautiful space to relax and enjoy the weather, simply by adding a deck. Consider using accent colours that evoke a natural vibe (such as crisp blue, which references water). Check out before and after photos of the complete deck renovation.

If you live in the city and don’t have much private outdoor space, don’t let that stop you from creating your own sanctuary. String up fairy lights to enjoy at twilight, and stock up on cushions and blankets to curl into during cooler weather. Toronto-based business and marketing consultant Jen Reynolds adores her space, which is located just off the kitchen. “I love that while the upper patio is used as a chic entertaining space, the lower garden is a private area, perfect for writing and relaxing as it’s completely enclosed by trees,” she says.

Modern design elements make it possible to enjoy indoor creature comforts outside your home. This backyard deck by Paul Lafrance blends technology and rustic charm perfectly, with a television installed into the stone-clad feature wall. Check out the entire backyard transformation.

Make the most of your time outside, either on your own or with your special someone. Fall is one of the most romantic seasons, and when the weather is crisp and just right, you’ll love nothing more than lounging outside, wrapped in warm sweaters and blankets. This his-and-hers backyard oasis was designed by Backyard Build’s Brian McCourt and Sarah Keenleyside. Check out the entire transformation.

A tranquil outdoor escape doesn’t have to take up an entire backyard. Bryan and Sarah Baeumler’s Highview property in Burlington, ON, boasts a second-level balcony that overlooks the Niagara Escarpment. A simple conversation set is all the space requires, as the stunning surrounding area is the real highlight. Check out the entire transformation.

A backyard with a pavilion and outdoor kitchen means al fresco entertaining can continue well into early autumn. This space, designed by Partridge Fine Landscapes in Mississauga, ON, comes complete with a stone fireplace, flagstone patio and a pergola – all the elements needed for a perfect backyard escape!

There’s no need for complicated design and elaborate decor when enjoying quality time in your backyard. This patio, designed by Jillian Harris, is the perfect place to catch up with friends and family (bonus: it’s just steps away from the back door). In cooler weather, simply light a fire and snuggle up into cozy comfort.

Are you a nature-enthusiast at heart? Then perhaps it’s best to skip the patio furniture, embellishments and outdoor decor altogether, and let Mother Nature’s whimsy inspire you. A simple platform and pavilion can easily be transformed into a dreamy outdoor escape with strings of fairy lights and a hammock, as pictured above.

Let the warm, comforting colours of autumn inspire your backyard decor as summer heads to a close. Consider switching up your patio accents (cushions, blankets, tableware, etc.) from bright summer hues to rusts, browns and oranges. You’ll feel more inspired to spend time outside if you’re one with the elements!

Cool weather and fire pits go hand in hand, especially when the season changes from summer to autumn. This space (another eye-catching design by Paul Lafrance) brings the comfort of a living room outdoors. Two levels break up the backyard, with a pergola highlighting an outdoor kitchen and a luxurious fireplace accenting the seating area.

Imagine sitting outside and staring at a lake while letting the cool, crisp autumn air engulf you in a hug. This dreamy deck in Ontario’s cottage country is the epitome of outdoor bliss. A large sectional and additional seating make it perfect for entertaining, plus umbrellas and nature’s canopy offer shade from early-autumn sunshine.