How to Decorate a Patio Living Space
While it may seem contradictory, you can use a lot of interior design principles when decorating outdoor spaces like decks, porches and patios. Your main goal should be to promote a comfortable atmosphere that allows you to relax while keeping the layout flexible so you can also enjoy fun, engaging activities with family and friends.
However, it’s also important to select furniture and accessories with the colorful finishes, chic designs, performance fabrics and sturdy frames you need to complement your stylish tastes and accommodate various outdoor activities. Use the tips in this guide as you shop for patio furniture so you can find the perfect pieces for your space.
With the right furniture and decor, you can establish a fun and cozy feel for your backyard hangout.
Conversation Spots
Start by creating an area for your friends and loved ones to gather and chat while enjoying each other’s company. Cozy conversation sets help you establish a second living room outside. Piece your seating set together using sofas, loveseats, chairs and sectionals with the teak, metal, wood or wicker finishes you prefer. Or, choose a complete outdoor seating collection for a more cohesive look.
Once you decide on a size, shape, color and style for your seating arrangement, you can accent the space with chic and functional outdoor decor. Add patterned throw pillows to your Sunbrella sofa or U-shaped sectional and frame your seats with coordinating lamps atop a pair of end tables. You can also use a stylish coffee table or a stunning fire pit to create an eye-catching centerpiece for your setup.
Fire Pit Table and Adirondack Chair Conversation Set
Dining Setups
An outdoor dining set is an essential addition to your patio, especially if you’re planning to host backyard barbecues and parties. Since these arrangements come in several shapes and sizes, it’s easy to find bar and bistro sets for enjoying brunch and coffee on your balcony, as well as sets with large extension tables and comfy chairs and bar stools for as many as eight guests.
If you’re going for a uniform look across the different areas of your patio, select a dining set featuring the same outdoor materials as your seating arrangement. Set up a wooden, wicker, aluminum, steel or wrought iron dining table and chair set to coordinate with the couches, Adirondack chairs and lounge seats on your patio.
Mix and match different patio furniture materials to establish a charming, eclectic vibe for your outdoor dining area.
Lounging Areas
Whether you want to kick back beside the pool or take a nap beneath the trees, lounge-worthy seating options help transform your patio into a relaxing outdoor oasis. Outfit your terrace with a set of metal, wicker or sling chaises so pool party guests can stretch out and soak up the sun. Or, add a hammock or daybed to the backyard to create a cozy spot for reading, sleeping and star gazing.
To save on floor space, consider modular or dual-purpose pieces that double as traditional seating and stand-ins for chaise lounges. Add an outdoor recliner or adjustable Adirondack chair to your sofa set so you can sit up and talk with guests, then lay the seat flat when you want to work on your tan. You could also use high-back glider and rocking chairs to sway and relax while sitting upright.
Chaise lounges help you establish a tranquil relaxation spot on your patio.
Outdoor Decor Items
Depending on what furnishings you choose, decorative accents can be the perfect option for tying your outdoor layout together. Want to put the finishing touches on your patio design? Incorporate some of the following pieces to give your outdoor living spaces a practical boost and a cozy, personalized look.
- Side Chairs: A set of stackable outdoor chairs provides extra seating when you need to accommodate unexpected guests.
- Rugs: Lay down different-size outdoor rugs for additional softness underfoot and to designate the various zones of your patio.
- Storage Pieces: Use storage chests, chairs, benches and bar carts to keep your patio layout neat and organized.
- Planters: Show off your green thumb by placing vases and planters full of lush greenery and colorful blooms around your terrace.
- Heaters: Add a patio heater to your space so you can feel warm and cozy while relaxing outside on chilly evenings.
- Patio Umbrellas: Add a table umbrella to your outdoor dining set to block sunlight during al fresco meals.
- Wall Decor: Spruce up your patio layout using outdoor wall art. For a practical touch, hang up a patio clock, suncatcher or thermometer.
Accent benches, small play areas and decorative lawn ornaments also make perfect additions to an outdoor living space.
Whether you’re working with a small enclosed patio or a sunny and spacious backyard, adding these furnishings to the layout can transform it into the perfect setting for tranquil relaxation and fun get-togethers. Use the decorating tips from this post to help you make the most of your gorgeous outdoor living space.