Do you have plans to take your patio to the next level this season, but don’t know where to start? Making some simple DIY improvements to your outdoor living space is like adding a whole new room to your home, one you can enjoy almost year-round.
Bring the Indoors Out with Cozy Furniture
Many of the elements that make your other living areas comfortable can be used outdoors in your patio space. There is a wider variety than ever of weatherproof furniture, complete with plush cushions, that can stand up to anything Mother Nature dishes out. The same goes for rugs and other homey accents. These pieces give the illusion of blending your indoor and outdoor spaces into one. Just decide how your space will be used – for dining or lounging – and plan out your space accordingly. If space is tight, there are clever fold-up table and chair options that can be stowed away when not in use.
Let there be Light
The market has exploded in recent years with a vast array of solar-powered lighting options that allow you to bring instant drama to your backyard living space without having to worry about electrical outlets or unsightly wiring. Use solar path lighting to illuminate walkways or borders, and hang decorative solar-powered lanterns as beautiful accents near seating areas. Stringed lights now come in a variety of solar styles and bulb sizes, and add drama to shrubs and trees with their soft, twinkling glow.
Spruce up the Landscape
Add some natural elements with simple, but eye-catching landscaping. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, some simple flowerbeds or artfully placed potted plants can add colorful texture to your outdoor space. If you’re feeling a little more ambitious, consider adding a water feature, such as a fountain or waterfall. All the tools and know-how you’ll need can be found at your local equipment rental store.
Turn up the Heat
Adding an element of warmth will allow you to enjoy your patio during all four seasons. You can build a simple fire pit, or add a chimenea for enticing ambiance regardless of the weather. Finish off your space with a grill and now you truly have an additional multi-use space that will get you out of the house and into the great outdoors when it’s time to kick back and relax.