Top 4 Quick and Easy Projects to Tackle Over a Long Weekend

Long weekends are the perfect opportunity to tackle home improvement projects you’ve been putting off. Your backyard has the potential to be so much more than just a patch of grass!

With a little planning, you can transform underutilised spaces in your backyard into functional and inviting areas. These are our favourite quick projects to make a big impact.

“It’s a waste to leave side gardens and backyard corners sitting gathering weeds – you paid good money for your land and there are clever ways to ensure you use all of it,” says Adbri Masonry brand ambassador and expert landscaper, Jason Hodges.

If you have spaces in your backyard that are underutilised, overgrown, or simply need a refresh, now is the time to take advantage of the extra day off and create a space perfect for relaxation or entertaining. Here’s how:

1. Upgrade Your Side Pathway

Every house has that one shady side where grass won’t grow, and every time it rains, it turns into a muddy mess. Why not use the long weekend to fix it? A stepping stone path is a simple and stylish solution that DIYers can easily complete in a weekend.

Our tips for success:
• Use large format pavers to achieve a sleek, designer look.
• Lay them in a staggered (stretcher bond) pattern to add visual interest.
• Fill the gaps with decorative stones or greenery for added appeal.

2. Build a Backyard Fire Pit

Looking for a project that brings people together?

A fire pit is a fantastic addition to your backyard, providing a cozy space for family and friends to gather on chilly evenings. The best part? You can build one in a single weekend!

Pro tip: Use Miniwall for a fire pit that can be easily assembled and disassembled. When the warmer months roll around, you can repurpose it by filling it with soil and creating a mini herb or veggie garden.

3. Create a Herb & Vegetable Garden

Have a bare fence or a neglected corner of your yard? Turn it into a thriving herb and vegetable garden! Raised garden beds add dimension and functionality to your backyard and can be easily constructed with retaining wall blocks like Natural Impressions. Explore our How To guide for step-by-step instructions to guide you through.

Want to take it a step further? Install a vertical garden to make the most of your wall space. Green walls are not just a trend – they add natural beauty and provide fresh herbs year-round!

4. DIY Sleeper Footpath/Steppers

Adding a pathway through your backyard can enhance its flow and functionality, providing a clear route between outdoor spaces while adding to the overall aesthetic. Whether connecting the patio to the garden, the fire pit to the back gate, or simply leading to a focal point, a well-designed pathway can make all the difference.
Style tip: For a rustic and stylish look, DIY Concrete Sleepers are a fantastic option. They mimic the appearance of timber sleepers but offer the durability of concrete, making them a low maintenance and long-lasting choice for outdoor spaces.

Style tip: For a rustic and stylish look, DIY Concrete Sleepers are a fantastic option. They mimic the appearance of timber sleepers but offer the durability of concrete, making them a low maintenance and long-lasting choice for outdoor spaces.

Make the Most of the Next Long Weekend!

With a little time and effort, these projects can completely transform your backyard into a space you’ll love. So why not use the upcoming long weekends to make some impactful upgrades? Whether you’re creating a stylish walkway, a cozy fire pit, or a lush garden, you’ll be amazed at how much you can achieve in just a few days.

What project will you tackle first?