Creating Our Dream Ranch: Outdoor Decor, A Poolside Oasis, and Unique Home Touches
Living on a ranch is a dream come true, and over the years, we’ve worked hard to turn our land into a sanctuary of beauty, function, and comfort. From adding outdoor décor that complements the natural landscape to installing a pool in the front yard, every project has been a labor of love. We’ve also made some creative home improvements, like brightening up a windowless bathroom with strategic mirrors.
Today, I want to share our journey in making our ranch feel like home while embracing the rustic charm and modern comforts that fit our lifestyle.
Outdoor Décor: Blending Nature with Charm
One of my favorite things about living on a ranch is the opportunity to create an outdoor space that reflects our love for nature while adding elements of beauty and relaxation. Our big porch serves as the perfect gathering place, and we wanted it to feel cozy yet stylish.
We incorporated rustic wooden rocking chairs, oversized planters filled with native flowers, and wrought iron lanterns to provide soft lighting in the evenings.
To add a personal touch, we hung a handcrafted wooden sign with our ranch name near the entrance. A vintage wagon wheel leans against one of the porch columns, giving it that old-fashioned charm. To bring even more warmth, we installed an outdoor rug under the seating area and added a few throw pillows with southwestern prints.
Pondside Paradise
Another cherished addition to our ranch is our pond, which serves as both a beautiful focal point and a refreshing retreat for local wildlife. To enhance its appeal, we landscaped around it with a mix of native grasses and wildflowers. A small wooden dock extends over the water, offering the perfect spot to sit back and take in the peaceful surroundings.
At night, solar-powered lanterns reflect off the water, creating a magical atmosphere. We also added a bench nearby, making it an ideal spot for morning coffee or evening stargazing. Our pond isn’t just for looks—it provides a natural water source for our animals and attracts birds, frogs, and butterflies, making it a vibrant part of our land.
A Pool in the Front Yard? Why Not!
When we first talked about installing a pool in our front yard, some people thought we were crazy. Most pools are tucked away in backyards, but with the way our ranch is laid out, the front yard was the best option. And honestly, we love it!
We opted for an inground pool with a natural stone border to blend seamlessly with the surroundings. To enhance privacy, we surrounded the pool area with a combination of wooden fencing and lush greenery. Since the front yard gets plenty of sunshine, it turned out to be the perfect location for afternoon swims and relaxing poolside with a good book.
One of my favorite additions was an outdoor pergola right next to the pool, draped with string lights and climbing vines. It provides the perfect amount of shade while adding a touch of elegance. We also included a fire pit nearby, creating a cozy atmosphere for cool nights. The pool area has quickly become a favorite gathering spot for family and friends, proving that unconventional choices can sometimes be the best ones!
Our Big Porch: The Heart of Our Ranch
Our big porch is truly the heart of our home. Whether we’re sipping sweet tea in the afternoon or enjoying a peaceful sunrise, this space is where we unwind and soak in the beauty of our land. We wanted to make sure it felt inviting, so we invested in comfortable seating, a porch swing, and a long farmhouse-style table for outdoor meals.
To give it more character, we repurposed an old wooden ladder as a plant stand, showcasing potted herbs and flowers. A few antique finds, like a metal milk jug and an old wooden crate, give the space a nostalgic feel. Wind chimes made from repurposed silverware add a charming touch while offering a soothing melody whenever the breeze picks up.
Brightening Up a Windowless Bathroom
Inside our home, one of the trickiest spaces to design was our windowless bathroom. Without natural light, it felt small and dark. Rather than letting it feel closed in, we decided to use mirrors strategically to brighten the space.
We installed a large, antique-style mirror above the sink, which instantly made the room feel more open. To enhance the effect, we placed a second mirror on the opposite wall, reflecting more light and creating the illusion of space. Soft LED lighting fixtures were added to mimic natural daylight, making the room feel airy and welcoming.
To keep things from feeling too heavy, we went with a light color palette—soft cream walls, a white vanity, and touches of natural wood for warmth. Small decorative elements like mason jar storage, a vintage-style rug, and wrought iron towel hooks tied the whole space together. Now, even without a window, our bathroom feels bright and inviting!
Making Our Ranch a True Home
Every addition we’ve made to our ranch has been about more than just aesthetics—it’s been about creating a home that reflects our lifestyle and brings us joy. From the peaceful pond and cozy porch to the unexpected but much-loved pool in the front yard, each project has added something special to our everyday life.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through all these home improvements, it’s that your home should be a reflection of you. Whether it’s a small décor change or a big project like a pool installation, the key is to create a space that makes you happy and fits your way of life.
Have you made any unique or unconventional updates to your home or ranch? I’d love to hear about them! Share your ideas in the comments and let’s keep inspiring each other to make our homes the best they can be!
Your ranch is so beautiful. I love that painted gas tank, your outdoor decor and that dreamy pool. I’m really enjoying following your pioneer wifestyle journey.