Did you know that over half of Americans prefer to live in hot, sunny conditions?
As the seasons get warmer, many of us are ready to break out of our winter layers and soak up the sunshine. There’s no better way to do so than relaxing on your own home patio!
Is your patio feeling outdated, cluttered, or boring? Are you unsure about how to decorate your patio so it will feel open and relaxing all year long?
Check out these five awesome decorating tips for the perfect outdoor patio.
1. Incorporate Your Personal Style
The first tip on how to decorate a patio: don’t leave your style at the door. Create a natural transition from indoors to outdoors by carrying your home décor style through to your porch.
Your outdoor space should feel comfortable and natural to your family’s lifestyle. We’d recommend choosing a patio theme that flows well with the rest of your home and works in all seasons. Creating a mood board or online shopping list may help you narrow down your overall patio design.
First, determine your home’s overall color scheme. Do you like a coastal beach, country farm, or uptown glamour vibe? Consider how you would like to feel in your outdoor space, for example, luxurious and classy.
2. Prioritize Large Furniture
No matter how large or small your outdoor space is, it’s important to select the right furniture pieces. It is better to choose large, comfortable furniture pieces first if possible.
Large pieces will actually make your space feel larger. They give guests more comfortable places to rest, eat, or set their wine glasses. Large furniture also makes your patio feel more luxurious and put together.
Patio sets are one way to create a cohesive and comfortable look for your patio, but they can be somewhat boring. Don’t be afraid to mix and match with chairs, hammocks, and swings to give yourself a variety of positions to relax in.
Of course, small furniture also has its place for porch decorating. Use little side tables and benches for setting cocktails and potted plants. Avoid cluttering your patio with knick-knacks and flimsy pieces unless they suit your style!
3. Use Natural Elements
Just as you incorporate your indoor tastes to match your outdoor areas, it’s important to honor the natural environment around you. Potted plants, gardens, and living walls add color and dimension to your outdoor retreat.
Furniture and decor made from natural materials are best for decorating a patio. Materials like concrete, canvas, and wood blend with the open-air environment to make your patio seem larger. Even for porches with an uptown lounge aesthetic, natural materials are a must-have.
Some creative materials to mix and match include:
- Concrete
- Iron
- Wicker
- Rattan
- Canvas
- Wood
- Stone
- Ceramics
- Metallics
If you have space available, consider adding a fire or water feature to your patio. These elemental features create a focal point for the space and make your patio feel more relaxing. Water can make your patio feel cooler in the summer, while fire can keep the outdoors cozy all winter long!
4. Add a Touch of Whimsy
When it comes to decorating a patio, don’t be afraid to play. Decorating a patio with whimsical elements creates a playful, happy atmosphere. Children will take special delight in finding hidden treasures like acrylic ornaments, birdhouses, and garden gnomes.
Add wall art, suncatchers, and quirky lawn decor to your patio area. Indulge your guests’ sense of sound with wind chimes and water fountains. If you like doing yoga outdoors, wind chimes and reeds can aid in meditation and relaxation.
If you don’t like noisemakers or knick-knacks, consider adding Bluetooth speakers to your patio. Many modern speakers come in inconspicuous designs like rocks, flower pots, and wine connoisseur frogs. With a Bluetooth speaker, you can take your patio from a garden spa retreat to a classy rooftop party in seconds.
5. Lighten Up
Of all the tips for decorating a patio, this one may be the most important. Proper lighting is key to setting the mood for your outdoor space. With the right lighting, you’ll be able to use your patio any time of day or night.
Most patios and balconies already have a built-in porch light, but this light can be harsh at night. Hang fairy lights or above your seating area for softer nighttime vibes. If your patio is completely open, place lanterns and solar-powered lighting around the area.
If you have any large trees or shrubs, highlight their natural shapes with string lights. Water features are another excellent place to incorporate light elements. The flowing water will cast beautiful webs of light across your patio walls.
Consider investing in lights with multiple color modes. When your Friday night party guests come around, switch it up!
Bonus Decorating Tips
The five tips above are guaranteed to improve your patio space by making it more luxurious and comfortable. After you’ve set up your perfect patio, don’t forget to try these bonus ideas:
- Sweep and dust regularly
- Choose native plants that thrive year-round
- Switch your patio cushion with the seasons
- Use citronella candles to repel bugs
- Keep outdoor tools and toys in a designated area
- Have fun and bend the rules!
Soak Up the Seasons
A cozy patio is the perfect addition to your home. Patios give us a place to relax outdoors, socialize with loved ones, and enjoy a refreshing lunch or evening cocktail. Hopefully, these five decorating tips have helped you to perfect your patio space!
Are you looking for unique patio ideas? Look no further than Lesera! Shop our collection of garden décor and whimsical pieces perfect for gifting!
