Outdoor patios can provide the perfect space for relaxing, entertaining, or just enjoying the fresh air. However, turning your patio into an inviting oasis takes a bit of planning and decorating savvy. Follow these tips to transform your outdoor living area into a gorgeous and functional patio paradise.
Choose the Right Furniture
Selecting patio furniture is one of the key aspects of decorating your outdoor space. Consider the following when picking pieces:
Comfort
Look for patio furniture made with weather-resistant cushions for optimal comfort. Avoid metal or stone surfaces, which can be hot or cold depending on the weather. Focus on wicker, wood, or padded seating.
Durability
Since your patio furniture will be exposed to the elements year-round, durability is paramount. Teak, redwood, cedar, aluminum, wrought iron, and synthetic wicker or rattan are all good options. Avoid less weather-resistant materials like pine or fabric.
Style
Match the style of your outdoor furniture to the overall aesthetic of your home and patio. For a classic look, choose wrought iron or painted wood furniture. Contemporary homes look best with sleek aluminum or teak furniture.
Placement
Arrange furniture in conversational groupings to promote socializing. Leave enough room between pieces to allow for easy traffic flow. Angle groups towards the best views or focal points in your patio.
Ancillary Furniture
In addition to the main seating, consider adding patio-friendly extras like side tables, ottomans, chaise lounges, dining tables, and decorative screens.
Incorporate Cozy Seating Areas
Create dedicated lounging areas on your patio for chatting or quietly reading a book. Position a pair of weather-resistant armchairs or a loveseat around a coffee table. Top with throw pillows and an outdoor rug to define the space. Place the area near an architectural feature, garden bed, or soothing water feature.
Add Inviting Patio Dining
An outdoor dining table and chairs allow you to enjoy al fresco meals in your own backyard. Seek out durable dining sets made of topped aluminum, teak, recycled plastic, or all-weather wicker. For easy cleaning, avoid upholstered patio dining chairs. Decorate the space with an outdoor rug, centerpiece, and lighting.
Incorporate Stylish Planters and Potted Plants
Gorgeous blossoms and greenery help soften an outdoor living area. Choose planters and pots in colors and materials that coordinate with your overall patio decor. Opt for weather-resistant materials like terracotta, concrete, wood, or metal. To elevate your containers, place them on decorative plant stands at varying heights.
Fill pots and planters with annuals, ornamental grasses, succulents, or small trees. Arrange them in corners, along the edges, or clustered in groups. This helps delineate different functional areas on your patio.
Add Ambient Lighting
Proper illumination allows you to utilize your patio long after the sun sets. Incorporate lighting into your outdoor decor to create a beautiful nighttime oasis. Options include:
- String lights – Drape above seating areas or line the patio perimeter. Choose classic Edison bulbs or LED for energy efficiency.
- Lanterns – Line walkways or hang from trees. Select solar or electric models.
- Spotlights – Shine on architectural or garden focal points. Go for adjustable shades.
- Floor lamps – Place next to seating areas for localized light. Pick waterproof styles.
- Table lamps – Sit on side tables to illuminate lounge areas. Opt for concrete or wood bases.
- Under-counter lights – Mount beneath a grilling station or bar to provide task lighting.
Add Pops of Color with Decor
Don’t be afraid to incorporate color and pattern into your patio decor. It creates visual interest while also showcasing your personal style. Some ideas:
- Outdoor pillows – Choose vibrant patterns and solids. Add texture with tufting or embroidery.
- Rugs – Layer patios with weather-resistant rugs boasting bold prints and colors.
- Umbrellas – Select canopy shades in cheery hues and fun designs.
- Planters – Paint terra cotta pots or pick containers in colors that pop.
- Tables – In addition to wood tables, pick pieces featuring colorful concrete, metal, or ceramic tops.
Incorporate Water Features
The tranquil sound of moving water helps create an oasis-like feel. Fountains, ponds, or splash pools also provide visual intrigue. Options like self-contained water walls are easy to install. For pools, ensure proper safety measures are in place. Locate water features in visible spots where the soothing sounds can be appreciated.
Add Architectural Interest
Unique architectural elements infuse patios with character and style while providing function. Some ideas:
- Pergolas – Construct overhead and outfit with string lights and climbing vines for an intimate feel.
- Trellises – Affix to walls for vertical green spaces. Train vines or roses to climb.
- Privacy screens – Use rattan, wooden, or lattice screens to seclude hot tub areas.
- Fire features – Add standalone chimineas, fire pits, and fireplaces tailored to outdoor use.
- Bars – Build a covered bar area for patio parties. Include features like granite countertops and storage cabinets.
- Ceiling fans – Install on patios or pergolas to keep air circulating on hot days.
Relax with a Hot Tub Area
Designating a spot for an outdoor hot tub creates a relaxing oasis for daily use. Strategically place it in a secluded corner or install privacy screens. Surround the tub with patio tiles or decking and comfy outdoor furniture. Accentuate the area with potted plants, candles, and ambient lighting. Ensure proper safety measures are in place.
Delineate Space with Fences, Gates, and Pathways
Installing fences, gates, and pathways provides both aesthetic appeal and practical function. Fences and gates securely enclose a patio while complementing the home’s architecture. Meandering garden pathways guide people to different areas while adding visual interest. Use materials like wood, wrought iron, pavers, or stone.
Choose Weather-Resistant, Durable Materials
Patios undergo a lot of wear and tear from heavy foot traffic, weather, and UV rays. Using durable construction materials helps everything withstand the elements. Some top options include:
- Natural stone – Granite, bluestone, limestone (withstands changing temps)
- Concrete pavers – Pre-cast blocks available in shapes, colors, and textures
- Composite decking – Made from recycled plastic and wood materials (low maintenance)
- Ceramic and porcelain tile – Withstands weather fluctuations and resists moisture
- Pressure-treated lumber – Handled to prevent rot, mold, and insects
Proper patio maintenance keeps everything looking fresh. Periodically clean surfaces, touch up paint, and refinish damaged wood. Replace broken furniture pieces and faded cushions as needed.
Choose Low-Maintenance Plants
Patios and gardens require upkeep. Reduce work by selecting plants suited to your climate that need minimal care once established. Some top options include:
- Succulents – Hardly need watering once in the ground. Opt for sedums, aloes, and agaves.
- Ornamental grasses – Only need pruning once a year. Try miscanthus or pennisetums.
- Native shrubs – Adapted to local conditions requiring little water or pruning. Seek out boxwoods, elderberry, and sumac.
- Drought-tolerant perennials – Require less watering including lavender, coneflower, and blanket flower.
- Fruit trees – Dwarf varieties work well in patio gardens. Try citrus, apple, olive and nut trees.
Consider a Multipurpose Area
Maximize smaller patio spaces by choosing versatile furniture that allows you to adapt the area for different needs:
- Chat area by day, dining space by night – Cluster chairs and tables that can be rearranged.
- Seating on one side, yoga space on the other – Use foldable chairs that can be moved out of the way.
- Grilling station and outdoor bar – Select an island design to incorporate both uses.
- Fire pit seating that doubles as ambient lighting when not in use.
- Weather-resistant furniture that can be moved indoors during colder months.
Proper planning is key to creating a multifunctional patio. Analyze how you want to use the space and pick adaptable, movable furniture. Maximize every square foot.
Incorporate Privacy Features
Patios are meant to be your personal sanctuary. Using screens, fences, walls, and foliage helps block unwanted views and noise from neighbors. Strategically placed landscaping also provides natural privacy. Some other easy ways to create seclusion include:
- Tall shrubs and trellised vines
- Lattice screens and wooden fencing
- Masonry or stone walls
- Tiered planter boxes around the perimeter
- Bamboo panels as sleek, natural barriers
- Noise-reducing trees like pines and cypress
- Outdoor curtains on steel tracks that glide open and closed
Combine hardscape features like fences with plants for the best privacy buffer. Leave openings to retain views and breezes.
Provide Adequate Shade
Spending time on a blazingly sunny patio isn’t appealing. Keep your space comfortable by incorporating shade sources into your decor:
- Market umbrellas – Use freestanding bases so umbrellas can be moved as needed.
- Sails – Mount triangular canvas shades on posts to filter sunlight.
- Trees – Plant leafy trees like maples and oaks to naturally shade the patio.
- Verandas – Construct covered, roofed porches along the perimeter or over seating areas.
- Pergolas – Install wood, metal, or vinyl structures and cover with vines.
- Pavilions – Build open-air structures with fully covered roofing to block sun and rain.
Point canopy shades east to reduce morning sun glare and west for hot afternoon sunlight. Retractable models offer the most versatility.
Include an Outdoor Kitchen
Serious patio chefs will love having an outdoor kitchen for grilling, prep space, and storage. Build a fully-equipped cooking area into patio design plans. Essentials include:
- Grill station with cabinets for storing tools.
- Countertops that withstand weather (stainless steel, stone, concrete).
- Sink with running water for washing up.
- Under-counter refrigerator to keep food chilled.
- Serving bar with stools for casual dining.
- Weather-resistant appliances like side burners, beverage coolers, or pizza ovens.
- Firepit, chiminea, or fireplace to expand cooking options.
- Weather-resistant surfaces that are easy to clean.
Pay special attention to ventilation, smoke detectors, gas lines, and electric hookups when designing and building your outdoor kitchen.
Cleanup and Maintenance
While decorating your patio can be exciting, don’t neglect general cleanup and regular maintenance. A few key tasks:
- Sweep frequently to keep debris, leaves, and dirt under control.
- Use a hose to spray down hard surfaces occasionally. Avoid pressure washing.
- Wipe furniture with a damp cloth to remove pollen, dust, and bird droppings.
- Store cushions, umbrellas, and other accessories when not in use.
- Watch for chipped paint, faded finishes, and rust on metal furniture and features. Touch up or repaint promptly.
- Note cracks in concrete, loose stones, warped wood, and other issues so repairs can be made before problems worsen.
How to Decorate an Outdoor Patio: FAQs
How much should I budget for patio decor?
This depends on the patio size and how much furniture and upgrades you want. As a general rule, expect to spend $2,000-$4,000 for a basic furniture set and accessories for a standard 10 x 12 foot deck or paved area. For a more lavish entertaining area, budget $10,000-$15,000.
What colors work best for outdoor decor?
Earth tones like browns, tans, and slate look classic paired with nature inspired greens and blues. Red and yellow add cheerful pops of color. Avoid hard to match colors like purple or bright pink. White frames outdoor views beautifully.
What fabrics work well outdoors?
Performance fabrics like Sunbrella and Outdura are designed to withstand weathering, UV rays, and moisture. Canvas, denim, acrylic, mesh, and solid vinyl also hold up well. Avoid delicate fabrics like silk or linens outdoors.
How can I create an outdoor dining space?
A basic setup includes a square or rectangular patio table with 4-6 weather resistant chairs. Make the space more inviting with an outdoor rug, pendant light over the table, and planters. Protect the area from wind and sun with a pergola.
What are smart spaces to put a patio?
South or west facing patios get the most sun. North-facing spaces will be shadier and cooler. Locate patios off the kitchen for easy access or steps from the backyard pool. Shelter patios from strong winds if possible.
What are good patio privacy options?
Plant tall trees like conifers and hedges around the perimeter. Install latticework or trellises and let climbing vines create living screens. Use woven panels, outdoor curtains, or wooden fencing to seclude spaces. Position patio furniture away from neighbors.
What types of plants work well in patio gardens?
Succulents, grasses, herbs, and native plants suited to your climate thrive with minimal care. Citrus, rosemary, lavender, geraniums, and hydrangeas also add beauty and scent. Place plants in decorative pots that can be moved indoors in winter.
How can I light up my patio at night?
String lights illuminate seating areas beautifully. Place lanterns along pathways and steps. Install spotlights to highlight architectural details. Use exterior floor and table lamps for soft light. Put lighting on separate switches for custom control.
What are good materials for patio flooring?
Flagstone, pavers, pea gravel, and crushed stone create stylish and drainage-friendly surfaces. For a wooden deck, use cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine. Concrete and ceramic tile withstand the elements in sleek style.