thanks for breaking this topic out of the mowing thread. though it may not be less work than mowing grass, caring for fruit trees, veggie beds, and native ornamentals is a satisfying hobby, which also provides food for your family and friends, habitat for wildlife, and support for soil and watershed.
for sitting outside, a casual paved area can be made with broken pieces of concrete, stained a terracotta color, with a small groundcover in the cracks (depending on location, sun, shade, etc). an area covered in bark or pine needles can also be a nice place to park your chaise, especially if it's under a tree. all these materials can be sourced on the cheap.
happy summer everyone!