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With summer just around the corner now is the perfect time to transform your outdoor space. There are plenty of ways to create your dream hangout spots full of comfort and style.
I’ve rounded up my favorite ideas, with everything from beautiful planter arrangements to dreamy outdoor kitchens. With these ideas, you’ll have a functional and comfortable patio just in time for the warm weather.
1. Create Conversation Areas
Comfortable seating and furniture are the focal points of the patio. And this doesn’t have to mean a large furniture set.
A small table with some chairs can make the perfect patio, and can feel much more intimate.
Or if you like to host gatherings, invest in a nice furniture set to complete your space. Outdoor cushions and throw pillows make the space feel more relaxing and inviting.
RELATED: Viral Walmart Patio Set Review.
2. Define Areas With a Rug
A outdoor rug is the cherry on top of your patio decorating.
A rug is also the easiest way to clearly define different areas of the patio. While you probably don’t want a rug under an outdoor dining table, having one around a seating area is a great idea. It adds color, a soft texture underfoot and makes your patio feel like an extension of your living room.
3. Outdoor Fireplaces
Speaking of living rooms, is there anything better than sitting by a warm fireplace? With an outdoor fireplace it can be your favorite thing all year long! Not only is an outdoor fireplace the perfect source of warmth on chilly nights, but it’s definitely top of the list for relaxation and the perfect ambiance!
4. Fire Pit Areas
An outdoor fireplace may only be a dream for some of us, but a firepit is very attainable and easy to add.
A couple of years ago, we added a fire pit area to our backyard and it quickly became our favorite spot to hang out. It creates the perfect centerpiece for an outdoor gathering and even just for ambiance.
Adding built-in seating or chairs around the pit creates the perfect night-time hangout. My family and I love to roast marshmallows here during the summer, and it’s a great place for us to make memories!
If a designated open firepit area is not possible, a gas fireplace with a built-in tank is also a great option. We previously had a gas firepit on our patio, pretty close to the house and it was a great feature to have.
5. Dining Al Fresco
There’s nothing better than being able to enjoy a meal outdoors during the summer months. It’s the perfect way to extend your home and get use out of your backyard space.
You don’t need to have a big space to get a perfect dining area either. A small table with some chairs can be just enough to fit your needs.
Of course, if you have a larger patio area like I do, you can add a separate dining space to accompany your seating area and really get the most from outdoor living.
Having a patio with just a dining table creates a backyard oasis. It makes for a quiet and secluded dining experience perfect for hosting dining parties. Add some planters and string lights for the perfect ambiance.
6. Dreamy Outdoor Kitchen
For those who love to cook and entertain, an outdoor kitchen is a must.
You can easily enjoy the convenience of cooking and dining without having to keep going back inside. From built-in grills to refrigerators and coolers, you can customize your space to fit your needs.
6. Layer Outdoor Lighting
Lighting can quickly bring a space together and add the perfect amount of ambiance. It can turn any spot into an evening hangout to get more use out of your patio.
Around my firepit, I have solar-powered string lights and they are amazing! It elevates the space while being functional and decorative. They are quick and easy to install and you don’t need to worry about cords and electricity.
We also added solar powered puck lights throughout our landscaping that add soft uplighting. Similarly to how we layer lighting in our homes (table lamps, sconces, overhead lighting), doing the same outdoors will create a much more inviting space.
8. Planters and Greenery
Plants and greenery are the best finishing touches to a patio. They truly bring the space to life and are beautiful. Mix and match planters of different sizes and materials to add depth, color and texture.
RELATED: Summer Planter Ideas.
I like to fill my planters with all sorts of seasonal flowers and plants. Picking a neutral planter is best so you can style it with all colors without worrying about it clashing.
9. Shade Solutions
The summer days can get uncomfortably hot so having shade is essential for enjoying your patio in comfort. Adding an umbrella, pergola, or awning not only provides relief from the sun but also creates a stylish element.
10. Hammocks or Swing Seats
Hammocks and swing seats are a great way to spice up your patio. They are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the warm weather. These are a comfortable alternative to regular patio chairs. They can easily be removed making your patio functional for different occasions.
11. Bring the Inside Out
Adding decor pieces to your patio can transform the space and pull everything together. A console table can add a sense of comfort like you are in an outdoor living room.
Add elements like a tray or a pretty vase and flowers on the table as the final touches. It also serves as a place to store pool towels or blankets.
12. Decorative Tiles and Paving
The patio floor is one of the biggest elements of the space, and a great opportunity to add some design flair!
If you want to make the floor the focal point then opt for a patterned tile like this:
If you want to do a DIY project that really adds a wow factor to your patio, then a stenciled pattern on concrete can look truly amazing. Just look at what Jenna Sue did to hers!
Another idea is having large pavers separated by gravel. This is a good option for separation of spaces while adding a design element.
14. Cohesive Decor
Just like when designing your home’s interior, you want the decor on your patio to look cohesive and flow. I continued the colors from my interior outside to our patio, but just made them more vibrant. Having the throw pillows, rug, lanterns, etc. all match creates a cohesive look.
Don’t forget to break up the space by using varying textures – wicker, rattan, wood, concrete and ceramic.
Final Thoughts
Creating a functional and comfortable patio will be so rewarding come summer. I promise it will quickly become your favorite place to spend time! By incorporating these ideas, you can create the patio of your dreams that fits your space and style.
