From spring to fall, I spend almost all of my free time indoors and on my porch. It’s great for everything from my morning coffee to work from home to dinner and drinks with friends. I spent a little time arranging the outdoor decor in my entryway, although the space is not very large, it is perfect for any occasion.
Over the years, I’ve had an entryway that only had enough room for one seat. But I also have a space large enough to fit couches, chairs, plants, and even displays for outdoor movie nights. Regardless of its size, I’ve learned how to get the most out of my outdoor space—because there’s no way I’m going to miss drinking coffee at sunrise. Whether you’re working on a small balcony, a cozy porch, or a large deck with a deck, these outdoor decorating tips will help you transform it into an oasis.
1. Increase your chances
It is possible to turn any size space into your happy place. You just need to be creative and maximize the area you are working on. Either way, you don’t have to sacrifice your style or comfort just because you’re shooting square footage! The key is to choose outdoor furniture that is right for your space and needs.
For just relaxing, choose pieces like outdoor accent chairs, and small tables to place drinks or books. If you want something fun and simple, a bar cart and a set of stools will make your outdoor space an intimate night spot. If you have a larger area, a bistro living room or a love seat and a coffee table are good options, especially if you want to be with your friends or socialize with your roommate.
Large outdoor areas, such as patios and yards, are perfect for hosting dinner parties or summer picnics. You have plenty of space for a dining table and other chairs, and you can even add a sofa.
Source: @goldalamode
2. Add the green leaves
You don’t have to have a green thumb to incorporate plants into your outdoor decor. This year, I bought fake plants for a casual outdoor decor, but I add fresh flowers to my outdoor table every week for a little something extra.
If you want to add real flowers and plants to your outdoor space, consider planters, planters, or other things to bring life to plants. But there’s no shame in choosing faux florals if that suits your style and lifestyle.
3. Use light to correct the situation
I’m one of those people who prefers accent lighting in my home over overhead lighting, and that still applies to doors. My house now has outdoor lighting, but I can’t tell you the last time I turned it on. At night, instead of turning on the string of lights I wrapped around the rail, I lit my candle outside for fun and relaxation.
Outdoor lighting is another great way to brighten up your space. The smaller ones are perfect for lighting other tables, while the larger lanterns work well for lighting patios and gardens.
Source: @sandramorganliving
4. Choose fabric to tie it together
Outdoor furniture adds another level of comfort and relaxation to outdoor spaces. Before you buy plastic bags, make sure you consider and map out where your furniture will be. There are many sizes of bedspreads and a few different ways you can untie them, so you want to make sure your bedspread fits perfectly. Don’t forget to double check that your bag is being used outside before you throw it away.
5. Get your space outside the oasis
Once you’ve got your outdoor furniture, bedding, greenery and lighting, it’s time to finish! Bring out your personality and style in an instant. Outdoor pillows are essential to keeping your furniture cool, and other blankets are good to have on hand, especially for hot summer nights. If your patio or deck gets full sun during the day, an umbrella is a nice touch that will brighten up your space before the sun goes down.
If you like hosting (and have the space for it), you might want to consider investing in some larger appliances. Food is a no-brainer for anyone with a big appetite. And if you love s’mores (who doesn’t?), a small fire pit will be perfect.
Don’t forget the outdoor bowl. Think about things that are indestructible, complete with plates, bowls, glasses, and serving trays. That way, you can enjoy drinking or eating al fresco without worrying about broken glass. Use the small rail to store your dishes and drinks while you enjoy your outdoor space all the time.
