Whether your weather is reflecting spring, stubborn winter, or too-soon summer, the calendar tells us spring is officially here.  Now, or eventually, is the perfect time to make plans to refresh to your patio or deck space.

Just like our interior spaces in our home, our outdoor spaces can use a little update from time to time. In this post, I will give you some ideas for easy and affordable changes you can make to help make the most of your outdoor living spaces.

Sprucing Up Outdoors

1. Replace, recover, or deep clean your furniture cushions: If it’s been several years of using the same cushions, it may be time to bite the bullet and replace them. However, if they’re fairly new a deep cleaning may be just the ticket to give them a newer, fresher appearance. Finally, if they fall somewhere in between those two, recovering might be the right option for you. Whatever approach you take, you’ll enjoy the benefits of getting rid of grimy, grungy appearance. Enjoy the view. Enjoy the sit.

2. Replace/repaint outdoor furniture: Along the same lines as idea number 1, you first need to determine what kind of shape your furniture’s in. Metal, wood, or even plastic furniture can have a long life with regular repainting using a good quality paint. Spray paint is the way to go to save time and get in all those nooks and crannies.

Tip: Make sure your spray paint is made for whatever material you are painting and that it works well outdoors. If you’re unsure, ask for help at the paint counter.

3. New Plants/Flowers: This one is fun and can be really affordable if you watch for sales at your local home improvement stores. Adding brightly colored flowers and plants really makes a statement. Also under this category I would include planters. Updating the finishes of your pots and planters can be a fun and affordable way to add some pizazz to your patio.

4. Add or recover throw pillows: Just like indoors, throw pillows can bring the pop. With so many options at all kinds of price points pillows are also a great solution for any budget. Make sure you check online for options instead of being limited to what you see in your local stores.

Tip: Make sure the fabric is made for outdoor use. This way you know it can hold up to extended sun exposure as well as water exposure.

5. Add an area rug to your seating area: This will not only help define a specific area of your outdoor space but it also can add color, pattern, and texture all in one convenient item! If you already have an outdoor area rug, consider whether a deep cleaning can help bring it back to life or if it may be time to replace it with something new.

6. Add Lighting: Lighting also helps define a space and create a warm feel, inside and out. They sell all kinds of nifty outdoor lights at home stores and lighting stores. Don’t forget to check your local dollar stores and discount stores for lower priced alternatives. Adding lights to planters or under an umbrella can add truly unique personality once the sun goes down. Outdoors isn’t just for daytime. 

Your Outside Space Matters Too

I’ve known many people who get hung up trying to set up an outdoor living area. If you feel intimidated by this challenge, don’t give up. Just remember that most of the same design/decorating tips and tricks that apply inside your home, will also apply outdoors. As you make your outdoor plans, just think of the area as a room that’s extra roomy.

I hope this blog helps give you some inspiration and ideas for things that you might do this year to make the most of your patio or deck for this spring, summer, and fall!

Now, what will you do next to love where you live?

Please feel free to reach out to us at The Redesign Habit and ask questions or simply share a project that you are working on or have completed.

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