Part of my Tiny Retreat Living Series — where I’m slowly transforming our ranch space into a private, cozy outdoor escape.
There’s something about working on a space slowly — piece by piece — that changes how you see it.
We were back at the ranch this past weekend, continuing our little “tiny retreat” transformation, and while we didn’t finish everything we thought we would… we ended up making a much bigger (and better) decision.
What started as a simple fence update has now turned into a full refresh — and honestly, I’m so glad we didn’t rush it.
Because sometimes the best design choices don’t happen at the beginning… they happen after you live in the space a little longer.
If you’ve been following along with our tiny retreat journey, you’ll know we’ve already tackled some of the bigger foundational pieces like the fence and gravel — and those projects completely changed how the space feels. (Read more about our backyard fence project here →)https://sharmedlife.com/ranch-fence-project-progress/
🔨 What We Actually Got Done This Weekend
This trip was all about finishing what we started on the perimeter — specifically the neighbour’s side.
Jason wrapped up:
- The remaining fence panels along the side
- Securing the back portion
- Reinforcing that sense of privacy we’ve been trying to create
And let me tell you… it’s already making a difference.
There’s something about having that enclosure that instantly makes the space feel more like a retreat and less like a work in progress.
(Also — small win — it keeps the neighbour’s very sweet dog from wandering in unannounced 😄)
Creating that sense of enclosure was something we didn’t fully appreciate until we started building it — and it’s honestly been one of the biggest upgrades to the space. (I shared more about how we created privacy in an open backyard here →)https://sharmedlife.com/tiny-retreat-fence-plans-landscaping-ideas/
💡 The Moment We Realized… This Wasn’t Enough
Originally, the plan was simple:
- Replace a few sections
- Add a gate
- Call it done
But standing there this weekend, looking at everything together, something felt off.
The newer panels looked fresh, clean, and intentional…
But the older front panels?
Flat. Worn. Kind of forgotten.
And that’s when it hit me:
We didn’t want the first thing we — or anyone else — sees to feel like the “before.”
That front section is the first impression.
It sets the tone for everything behind it.
So instead of patching… we pivoted.
🪵 The New Fence Plan (And Why It Makes More Sense)
Now the plan is to replace the entire fence — not just sections.
Here’s what that looks like:
- 4 new panels total
- 3 for the front
- 1 for half of the gate
- The remaining section will:
- Finish the right side
- Fully enclose the space
And once that’s done:
- We’ll cut all fence posts to a consistent height
- Add solar fence cap lights for that soft evening glow
👉 This is one of those upgrades that’s small… but makes everything feel finished.
🔁 Why Doing This in Phases Was the Best Decision
If I’m being honest, this wasn’t the original plan at all.
We thought we’d go in, get it done quickly, and move on.
But doing it in stages actually turned out to be the better approach — and here’s why:
✔ We avoided costly mistakes
If we had done the entire fence at once, we would have stuck with the original plan — and regretted it.
✔ We got to “live in the space”
Seeing the finished sections next to the older ones made the decision obvious.
✔ We spread out the cost
Let’s be real — this stuff adds up quickly. Doing it over time made it manageable.
✔ The design evolved naturally
Instead of forcing a vision, we let it come together in a way that actually works for how we use the space.
This is something I’d 100% recommend if you’re doing any kind of backyard makeover.
We actually saw this same thing happen when we worked on the base of the space — especially during our gravel project, where every small step made a bigger impact than we expected. (You can see that transformation here →)https://sharmedlife.com/tiny-retreat-living-tiny-retreat-living-gravel-ranch-update/
🌿 What’s Next for Our Tiny Retreat (May Projects)
We won’t be back at the ranch until May — which is killing me a little — but we’ve got a full list ready.
Next up:
- Custom gate build
- Painting the patio
- Pressure washing everything (very needed)
- Building planter boxes (front + push-out area)
- Updating cushions and throw pillows
- Possibly adding a couple of new patio chairs
What I love about this space is that it’s already functional — especially for group dinners — so anything we add now is just elevating it.
A lot of these ideas are building on the original vision we had for this space — something calm, neutral, and a little bit like a private resort. (I shared the full design direction for our tiny retreat here →)https://sharmedlife.com/10-simple-patio-ideas/
The DIY I’m Most Excited (and Slightly Nervous) About
🌿 The Branch Chandelier
This one has been on my mind for a while.
I have everything ready:
- Branches
- Twine
- Structure
But the lighting is where I’m hesitating.
Right now, I have white twinkle lights — simple, clean, easy.
But I don’t want it to look like something we just threw together.
I want it to feel:
- Intentional
- Styled
- Part of the overall design
Not bulky cords. Not messy.
👉 If I get this right, I honestly think it could be one of the standout features of the entire space.
(And yes — this will absolutely be its own blog post.)
🍷 The New Idea I Didn’t See Coming (And Love)
The Rustic Bar Build
This one came out of nowhere — and I’m kind of obsessed with it.
We have:
- The pallet from our fence delivery
- Some beautiful, worn 2×12 lumber
And instead of letting it sit…
We’re turning it into a long bar-style table.
Something that can:
- Act as a serving space
- Double as a gathering spot
- Add character to the entire setup
The wood isn’t perfect — and that’s exactly why it works.
It’s textured, worn, and has that “found piece” feel that you just can’t replicate.
I can already picture people leaning against it with a drink, talking, laughing… it’s going to be one of those spots.
🔥 Lighting Plans (Because This Changes Everything)
Lighting is going to be a big focus next round:
- Fire pit area
- Bar space
- Chandelier feature
- Fence lighting
Because once the sun goes down…
That’s when this space should really shine.
If you’re trying to create this same kind of relaxed, neutral outdoor space, I’ve been saving all the pieces I’d actually use (and love) in one place.
👉 You can browse my curated picks here: (Simple Patio & Tiny Retreat Finds)
Think:
- Soft neutral cushions
- Solar fence lighting
- Warm outdoor string lights
- Simple planters and textures
It’s everything I’d use to pull this exact look together — without overcomplicating it.
🔗 Follow the Tiny Retreat Transformation
If you’re new here or want to see how this all started, you can catch up on the full journey:
- Our backyard fence build (start here)
- The gravel project that changed everything
- How we created privacy in an open space
- The tiny retreat design direction
You Might Also Love
- How to Create a Cozy Outdoor Space for Entertaining
- Neutral Outdoor Decor Ideas That Feel Expensive
- Easy DIY Projects to Upgrade Your Backyard
✨ Final Thoughts
This project hasn’t been fast.
It hasn’t been perfect.
But it’s starting to feel like something.
Something intentional.
Something inviting.
Something we actually want to spend time in.
And honestly… those are always the projects that turn out the best.
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