In this article we’ll look at some ways to decorate your CURRENT patio and spruce it up for a fantastic outdoor season.
Think of this as the fun part…without all the grunt work of laying flagstones or building gazebos.
15 Ideas to Help Decorate your Patio
Scroll through the list and see what’ll help make your patio a truly amazing outdoor space.
1. String Lights
Add a magical glow to your patio with string lights. Drape them overhead or around the railing to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. They’re perfect for evening gatherings.
There are so many things I like about this patio built and decorated by Sarah at ThriftyDecorChick.com but I especially like the string lights. It makes her patio look so inviting!
2. Swaying Faux Firefly Lights
It seems like every year there are new and intriguing outdoor lights available.
This is a unique set of LED lights supported by flexible wires that sway in the wind to resemble fireflies dancing in the dark.
If you want to add some unique appeal to your patio at night, check these out.
3. Wind Chimes
Do you love the gentle tinkling of wind chimes? (My mom sure does. They’re a staple of her outdoor seating areas.)
Wind chimes are a unique addition to a patio because they provide both visual and auditory stimulation.
4. Outdoor Rugs
Define your patio space with an outdoor rug. Choose a pattern or color that complements your furniture, adding a touch of coziness and style underfoot.
5. Potted Plants
Bring life and color to your patio with a variety of potted plants.
My uncle uses flowers and potted plants on the ground and tabletop surfaces of his patio to soften the harder look of the stone and patio pavers.
Mix and match different sizes and plant types to create a vibrant, lush environment.
Plus, you can add extra color by planting your plants in some vibrant-colored pots.
Kate from the website CentsationalStyle.com uses green potted plants to add color to her white and off-white patio.
Just this little addition really makes the patio look inviting.
6. Patio Curtains
Hang curtains around your patio for added privacy and a touch of elegance. They can also provide shade on sunny days or a backdrop that softens the outdoor space.
Pull-down Roller Blinds
Another option that provides both privacy and shade is an outdoor roller blind like this.
I don’t know exactly which brand the one above is, but they sell similar ones at hardware stores and on Amazon (like the one below).
7. Fire Pit
Incorporate a fire pit for a cozy gathering spot. It’s perfect for roasting marshmallows on cool evenings and adds a central feature that draws people together.
Most municipalities have rules about outdoor wood-burning fire pits, but there are some great propane fire rings available. (We have the Outland Cypress Firebowl and love it.)
8. Water Features
Install a small water feature, like a fountain or a bird bath.
The sound of running water is soothing and can make your patio feel more comfortable and inviting.
9. Hanging Planters
Use vertical space by adding hanging planters. They don’t take up floor space so they are especially good for small patio with a limited footprint.
If you don’t already have structures to hang them from, you can get decorative ground spikes to suspend them. Below is an example of some that are available on Amazon. (But your local retailer may have some too.)
10. Comfortable Seating
Do you wince at the thought of sitting on your patio furniture because it is so uncomfortable?
If so, invest in comfortable seating options like plush sofas or chairs with cushions. Make sure they’re made with weather-resistant fabric to ensure durability outdoors.
Or you could try getting some new cushions for your existing seating.
Above is a popular set of outdoor rocking chairs complete with a side table for your beverages.
11. Accent Tables
Place a few accent tables around your patio to hold drinks, books, or decorative items. Choose materials like metal or teak for outdoor durability.
What’s cool about this table here is that there is storage underneath the table top and a slot to hold an umbrella.
(Just note that the storage compartment isn’t waterproof because there are slits in the table top.)
12. Outdoor Table/Beverage Cooler
This just looks like a regular outdoor table right?
Well, check this out.
The top lifts to expose a hidden cooler underneath. So it converts into a bar table and beverage cooler.
13. Outdoor Art
Decorate the walls of your patio or the sides of nearby structures with outdoor art. This could be weather-resistant paintings, sculptures, or decorative wrought iron pieces.
There are lots of options on the market including metal butterflies (like the ones above), but there is something to match every patio.
14. Other Lighting Fixtures and Options
Apart from string lights, consider other lighting fixtures like lanterns, solar-powered lights, or a stylish outdoor chandelier to enhance the ambiance of your patio.
Lighting is a great investment if you spend a lot of evenings outdoors.
15. Outdoor Patio Signs
What patio sign could you put up to truly put your own personal stamp and style on your patio space?
Here are some popular patio signs that may appeal to you. (Click one if you want more details on it.)
There are some funny ones out there. ????
16. Lattice Privacy Screen
A lattice privacy screen may not immediately come to mind as a decorating idea, but they really do add to the charm of a patio.
Plus, they provide privacy and shade.
This is a wooden lattice in a checkerboard pattern, and wood does require re-staining, but you could opt for plastic privacy lattice if you want a lower maintenance option.
These patio decorating ideas can help you turn your patio into an outdoor space that truly matches your style.
Enjoy decorating your patio…make it yours!
Want to find this list again later? Pin the picture below to your favorite Pinterest board.
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