Five Ways to Make the Most of Your Patio or Deck
Everything has its season. Including seasons. And for most of us, the shift from winter to spring is the most welcome turn, turn, turn of them all. No matter where you live, the thought of less inside and more outside is intoxicating. Less forced air, more fresh air! Less living room, more patio! Less tech, more deck! So it’s the perfect time for an annual assessment of your outdoor space. If your great outdoor space ain’t so great, I’ve got you covered. Here are 5 fun and easy ways to make your patio or deck the go-to spot for relaxation, entertainment, and pretending to have a green thumb.
5 Fun Ways to Get the Most out of Your Patio or Deck
1. Create a Cozy Lounge Area (a.k.a. Outdoor Living Room)
Forget stiff metal chairs that leave weird marks on your legs. Invest in some comfy outdoor furniture with plush cushions, a weather-resistant rug, and a coffee table for all your summer beverages in preparation for iced tea and margaritas. Bonus points if you add a few throw pillows to tie things together. While you’re at it, you may want to consider creating flow from indoors to outdoors or incorporating nature directly into where you will be hanging out.
2. Mood Lighting for Maximum Vibes
Lighting can make or break an outdoor space. Twinkle lights, lanterns and solar-powered path lights can add instant charm and make your deck feel like that special place you want to be. Plus, good lighting is essential if you plan on staying out when the sun turns in for the night.
3. A Mini Garden (Even If You’re a Plant Killer)
Even if you have a history of murdering houseplants, outdoor greenery is surprisingly forgiving. Some easier options include potted herbs or a vertical wall planter. I’ve been told (though I wouldn’t know myself, ahem), that succulents thrive on neglect and are forgiving for any shades of thumbs from green to black. Not only do plants add beauty to your space, in the case of herbs they also contribute meaningfully to delicious nutritious summer dining.
4. Outdoor Dining: Because Food Tastes Better Outside
Speaking of dining, there’s something about eating outside that makes everything taste better, assuming you have a way to keep away those pesky insects. Whether it’s a full dining set or just a small bistro table, having a designated space to enjoy meals al fresco makes your patio feel like an extension of your home.
5. Add Some Fun—Games, Fire Pits, and More!
Sitting is great. In fact it’s a great American pastime. But your patio can “stretch its planks” and become much more. It can be the entertainment hub of your backyard! Cornhole, giant Jenga, or a fire pit for roasting marshmallows all add an element of fun. I’m glad I’m nearly through this blog now that the seductive thought of s’mores have entered my consciousness.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it—five simple and enjoyable ways to transform your patio or deck into space you want to spend your spring. Enjoy the work to redesign your space then sit back, grab a drink, and enjoy the great American dream waiting just a few feet outside of your home.
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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