Summer is just around the corner, and your patio is still not ready for the season? Time to refresh and redecorate to bring out new colors to your old deck. Create a comfortable, stylish, and functional area that will reflect your lifestyle and serve both as your happy place for those peaceful mornings with a cup of coffee, as well as a perfect setting for hosting a social event. These 10 tips will help you spruce up your outdoor area in unexpected ways.
1. Deep clean
You should always start here, especially after a harsh winter. Sweep away all the leaves, twigs, and dirt that have collected over the year, paying special attention to the corners and spaces under the furniture. Follow up with a power wash of your concrete, stone, or tiles to remove all the built-up grime and stains. If your patio is of a wooden nature, clean it with a wood-specified product and apply sealant. Don’t forget to deep clean your deck furniture and check for mold in all the areas that stayed damp throughout the winter.
2. Fix the lighting
Never underestimate the power of proper lighting. Good lighting enhances ambiance and allows you to enjoy your outdoor space well into the night. You can use string lights draped overhead for a cozy, feel-good vibe. Solar path the walkways and garden borders. Using lights under the railings or stairs can improve both mood and safety. If you have a table, you can apply a little soft mood lighting to it by putting a lanterne or battery-powered candles in the middle. There is no end to deck lighting ideas when you start to dig into the subject.
3. Upgrade your furniture
If, after deep cleaning, your outdoor chairs and tables still look washed out, maybe it’s time for a change. Provided none of the legs are broken or wobbly, you might fix everything with a simple cushion exchange. Remember to go weather-resistant this time. You can also repaint and apply a little varnish on the wooden things. If you feel like going all the way and buying entirely new furniture, be hip and use versatile pieces, like a storage bench, a side table, and cute little stools. Focus on durability and comfort, and opt for materials that will survive the weather wear.
4. Create shade
As much as everybody loves the sun, there comes a moment during the summer when it might make spending time on your patio unbearable. That’s why it’s so important to add shade to your outdoor space. You can use colorful umbrellas, freestanding around the garden, or mounted on the tables. Outdoor curtains and sails are also a stylish and affordable way to block those UV rays and create a little privacy at the same time. If you want a more permanent option, you can install pergolas and awnings to cover a larger area. Pro tip: plant vines like wisteria or jasmine so that they grow over the pergolas, creating a natural atmosphere.
5. Bring more green
There can never be enough green on a patio. Plants will bring new life and freshness to your deck, and if you choose low-maintenance and sun-loving ones, they will take care of themselves and thrive in your local climate. Consider container gardening if your space is limited. Add lots of colorful flowers for a vibrant effect and wonderful fragrance, and mix perennials with annuals for a season-long effect. If you love to cook, consider growing your own herbs like basil, rosemary, or mint. If you take good care of your new garden, it will pay you back a thousandfold in bringing peace and calm to your deck.
6. Add a fire
Fire has a way of connecting people and bringing up cheerful thoughts. Adding a fire feature to your patio is a great idea, especially if you live in a place where, even in the summer evenings, it might get cold. Even a small patio can accommodate a little fire pit, either wood-burning or gas-powered, and it will add infinitely to the ambience of your outdoor area. If you have space and conditions for it, you can even consider adding a built-in fireplace. Just remember to always follow safety guidelines and check your local regulations for fire usage.
7. Final touch
Decor is everything, and to truly make your patio feel like an extension of your home, you need to add some personal touches. Outdoor rugs will bring color and make the area more defined, while throw pillows will create a cozy feeling. Paintings and hanging planters will complete the space. You can repurpose indoor items or go second-hand shopping, so you don’t break the bank and find unique things.
Ready for the new season
With a bit of planning and effort, your patio can become the ultimate summer retreat, a place where you can unwind, as well as entertain. From cleaning and organizing to adding lighting, greenery, and personal flair, every detail will bring something extra to the overall experience. So grab your sunscreen, your favorite drink, and step outside—it’s time to plan your new patio-look for the summer.
