Amp up the charm, comfort and personality of the outdoor space with drapery, lighting and more. Is your outdoor space more drab than fab but the truth is don’t have the inclination (or budget) for any big makeover? Whether your patio space is very large or small, here are eight easy-on-the-wallet ways to ensure it is more alluring and cozy.
5 Budget-Friendly Ways to ‘Fun Up’ Your Patio
Opt for circular tables over rectilinear shapes. If you’re in the market for an outdoor table and chair set, consider a circular or oval-shaped table over square or rectilinear. Rounded tables are easier to navigate around and can better accommodate another guest in a pinch. No one likes to sit at the corner during dinner. Add drapery for privacy, sun protection, softness and drama. Drapery panels are effective at softening the harsh rays of the sun as well as making your patio a bit more private and cozy. They’re also more flexible than shades, allowing you to shift them left to right as needed.
Use an indoor-outdoor fabric, such as Sunbrella, particularly for areas that are exposed to the elements. Also look for panels with weighted bottoms so they don’t blow into your barbecue if it’s a breezy day. You’ll need to anchor them to an overhead structure, like the underside of this patio overhang. Sheers are semi-private and soften the hard lines of pergolas and overhangs. While they don’t protect from sun and rain, they can help keep bugs out and add a sense of drama and romance to a backyard space.
String up lights for an inexpensive transformation. String lights can make the saddest of spaces look upbeat. Cost varies from about $10 to $175 per string, depending on the quantity of lights, material, bulb type and whether they’re heavy-duty-rated for commercial outdoor use. Most are in the $20 to $40 range. Design options abound, from small to large globes and with or without decorative shades. My favorite is strung paper lanterns. While paper isn’t an ideal choice for outdoors, you can find these in nylon and in a rainbow of colors and patterns. For maximum longevity, install them in a covered area. A string of flags is always a festive addition to a patio, whether it’s someone’s birthday or not.
Nix neutrals – weave in pattern and color. Decking material, pavers, fencing and home exteriors tend to be neutral, so without some pattern and a punch of vivid color, your space can look lackluster. These days, indoor-outdoor carpet and area rugs come in a bevy of patterns and colors, like the one shown here. Throw pillows are another easy way to introduce pattern, color and texture without a lot of commitment. Here, the pillows are actually what you notice first. Pillows also make sometimes stiff outdoor lounge seating more comfy. Make sure the fabric and insert are appropriate for outdoor use if they’re not going to be covered.
Reuse what you already have. Check your attic, basement and garage for underused pieces that might find new life outdoors. This tiered plant stand spent a previous incarnation as a candle holder. Hanging baskets often come with too few holes, but that’s not the case here. These colorful kitchen colanders have been cleverly repurposed. This vintage soda crate, meanwhile, became a charming planter for a checkerboard of succulents.
If you love all these ideas, but don’t have the outdoor space needed to create the space you want. Nick & Cindy Davis can assist you in finding your new home in the Tampa Bay and surrounding areas. We are always just a click here or call to 813-300-7116 away.