Turn a run-of-the-mill patio into a vibrant outdoor entertainment area with these easy upgrades.
Structures such as a pavilion or pergola can extend your outdoor season and add style to the space.
Boost color with patterned throw pillows and blankets that mirror your indoor decor scheme. Repaint furniture in tropical tints or calming yellows.
Colored Concrete
Colored concrete is becoming increasingly popular in construction projects, and it is ideal for enhancing the look of patios. Staining or painting concrete provides a vibrant new look that is fade-resistant and weatherproof.
Choose from a wide variety of colors to create the desired aesthetic, and use patterns that mimic other materials like stone or wood for added design appeal. In addition, decorative concrete can be stamped to imitate textures and designs that would be difficult to achieve with other materials.
There are many types of concrete coloring applications, but the most common include dyes, stains and pigments. While all three provide a stunning new look for patios, each one has its own unique benefits and pitfalls. To determine which application is best for your project, consider the climate and the desired visual results.
Furniture
Choosing furniture that complements your interior decor is an easy way to instantly make your patio feel like a curated extension of your living room. Extend hardwood flooring from indoors to the outdoor space, for instance, and use matching table chairs or couches to create a seamless transition.
Add a pop of color to your patio with patterned throw pillows or rugs that coordinate with your chosen decorating theme. Rugs can also help to define or break up a large deck, making it feel more cohesive and inviting.
If your backyard has an abundance of natural surface area, consider repurposed items for extra seating and tables, such as tree stumps or upturned wicker baskets. These can even double as planters or vases when filled with low-maintenance succulents.
Lighting
A boring patio can be transformed into a dazzling entertainment area with the addition of landscape lighting. A professionally-designed system of path lights, uplighting, moonlighting and spotlights creates an alluring ambiance that is both functional and beautiful.
Art and sculptures become captivating focal points when lit, revealing intricate details and evoking emotion. Lighting a water feature—like a koi pond or waterfall—is another way to bring a wow factor to a dull outdoor space.
If your patio lacks privacy, add a couple of tall shrubs or trees for natural screening. And if your patio is small, consider dividing it into several seating areas. This will provide a cozy atmosphere and help you stay connected with friends or family. It also looks chic! This DIY whizz shared her stylish new patio on TikTok, and people are going wild for her modern makeover.
Plants
The right plants can transform a patio into the vibrant outdoor entertainment area of your dreams. If your focus is on relaxation, consider adding a hammock or swing where you can gently sway and let go of the day’s stresses. If recreation is your goal, create an inviting space with a mini putting green or bocce ball court.
Use a variety of planters to add an assortment of flowers, herbs, or succulents. Different textures help create visual depth and interest. The key is finding the perfect balance between plants and decor; too few flowers may appear sparse while overcrowding can look cluttered.
Decorative elements such as wall hangings also enhance the patio’s visual appeal. Choose ones that are modern and nuanced to complement the color palette of your home’s exterior.
Screens
When entertaining guests outdoors, having access to comfortable seating and a television is essential. This allows you to watch the game while the kids swim in the pool, host movie nights and more!
Ambient lighting can enhance the mood, creating a cozy atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment. Strategically placed lights can accentuate the features of your landscape, highlight pathways and set the stage for magical evenings under the stars.
Adding screens to your patio allows you to control the amount of sunlight and breezes that flow into your space. Screens are available in various levels of opacity, allowing you to customize your privacy and maintain a connection to the outside while blocking glare and the view of nosy neighbors. You can even use screens to shield yourself from UV rays, which can cause health problems and fade your outdoor furniture.
