Ah, the patio. That sacred outdoor space where you can sip your morning cup of joe like a philosopher and then, sip a margarita like a reality TV star at night!
Your patio has so much potential. It could be a charming oasis- but right now it’s mostly a collection of mismatched chairs, a table covered in dust, and a sad single plant hanging on for dear life.
Fear not! A few easy upgrades can take your outdoor space from meh to magnificent without requiring a reality TV makeover budget.
Say Goodbye to the Plastic Relics
If your patio furniture cracks when you sit down, it’s not vintage- it’s just broken. Don’t get me wrong, I still keep a couple plastic chairs by the pool for the dripping wet kiddos, but as a general rule- those white plastic chairs from 1997 have served their time! Retire them with honor before they crumble into dust. Try something a little more polished but still budget friendly, like these:
Add Some Mood Lighting (Without Burning Down the House)
Solar string lights make everything look magical-your patio, your Instagram photos, even your questionable life choices. Just make sure to hang them high enough that guests don’t have to do the limbo on their way in. Pro mom tip: Use string lights in conjunction with a thin cable to help give them support so they don’t sag or snap in two. Solar lanterns are also a great touch. They are eco-friendly and perfect for people who always forget to buy batteries.
Chic Coffee Tables-You Need Somewhere to Set Your Drink
Let’s be honest- if you don’t have a coffee table outside, where are you going to put your snacks?! A couple things to keep in mind when picking the perfect one include, Weather Resistance-Wood, metal, or a sturdy rattan that won’t disintegrate after the first rainstorm. Multi-Functional is a great choice! Look For options with built in storage so you have somewhere to hide the ugly bug spray. Bonus points for some uniqueness.
Table Decor- Because a Bare Table is a Sad Table
Now that you have a coffee or side table for your seating area, let’s make it look intentional with centerpieces that don’t scream wedding reception. A stylish outdoor tray is perfect for corralling drinks and creates an illusion of tidiness. A simple lantern, potted plant, or quirky sculpture works wonders.
Final Touches-Making It Feel Like a Place You Want to Be
I like to make the outside space somewhat of an extension of the inside of the home. Spruce up your fence or patio wall with some wall art (if you have a place to safely display it), outdoor rugs and throw pillows, and some greenery or flowers. Real or fake, it doesn’t matter.
With a few simple upgrades, your patio will go from neglected to next level fabulous and be the new favorite hangout spot. Just be warned: once your friends see the transformation, you might have a hard time getting them to leave!
Post pics of your upgrades in the comments! I’d love to see them!
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Love all the ideas!
Thank you! Can’t wait till the weather is nice, for more than a day or two and we can actually do something outside!