In an ideal world, we’d have backyards with luxe water features and elaborate outdoor kitchens. But for those of us living in urban areas, most of us only get a small space with a patch of grass. However, with the right furnishings and decor, even the tiniest patio can become a secluded oasis, perfect for relaxing and entertaining.
If you’re searching for patio decor inspiration, we’ve got your back. Here are the top patio decor ideas to create a space you’ll love — and make the most of all summer long!
Experiment With The Flooring
Credit: Topps Tiles
If you’re looking to upgrade the entire vibe of your patio, start with the flooring. Experiment with different shapes, patterns, and prints to bring your space to life — and make sure it complements the furnishings, too. You can install the flooring yourself with sufficient know-how, but we’d recommend leaving it to professionals if you’re not up for building concrete forms.
For example, if the flooring uses light and dark grey, you may want to go for dark grey wicker furniture. More on furnishings below!
Upgrade The Furniture
Credit: Argos
Upgrading the furniture of your patio offers a quick way to transform the entire ambience of your outdoors. You can purchase complete sets from furniture stores or mix and match individual pieces that go with your personality.
However, remember that patio furniture may get pricey, so you’d want to invest in pieces that last more than one season. For example, rattan can withstand UV light and changes in weather, so you wouldn’t need to replace it often. Other suitable options for outdoor furniture include wicker and teak.
You can also upgrade your old patio furniture by upcycling it and giving it a fresh coat of paint.
Build A Pergola
Building a pergola over an existing patio helps create versatile shade and provides relief from certain weather conditions, such as too much sunlight. It also allows you to extend your living space outside; pergolas are perfect for placing comfortable furniture and perhaps even setting up a small outdoor kitchen.
If you’re looking for a degree of privacy, consider hanging curtains to accent your existing decor. There are several other options that can do the job, too, such as utilising privacy screens or retractable shade covers.
Add A Punch Of Colour
If you intend to entertain friends and family this season, why not invest in the aesthetics of your patio? One fantastic way to do so is by incorporating a pop of colour; it will inject playfulness and lift the overall mood of your space!
You can add a pop of colour by incorporating bright-coloured furniture. Alternatively, you can step it down a little by injecting colour through easy-to-change accessories, such as throw pillows and colourful vases.
Make A Statement With The Lighting
Credit: Bespoke Lights
The lighting makes or breaks an outdoor space. With the right fixtures, you can create a cosy and warm ambience. If you have a pergola (or any overhead structure for support), use chandeliers for ambient/general lighting. Bonus points for choosing unique fixtures that contribute to the aesthetics, too.
Proceed by layering fairy lights around certain structures, such as pergola legs. You can also hang these overhead in open gardens. Additionally, you may opt for tiki torches and lanterns — perhaps even a fire pit for illuminating dark nights!
Focus On The Details
The secret to an inviting patio lies in the details. Be sure to amp up the accessories on your patio. For example, woven trays to serve drinks offer functionality whilst also doubling as decor. Incorporate wicker baskets to hold blankets — these will come in handy when the nights get cooler. Add candles and lanterns to set the mood.
You can also surround your patio with easy-to-grow flowers for a beautiful summer garden — or use potted plants if your patch of grass won’t help.
Final Words
Make your summer afternoons cosy by upgrading your patio decor — you (and your loved ones) will cherish the moments spent there for a lifetime! The key is to create a space with cosy lighting, durable seating, aesthetic views, and optimum functionality. Be sure to bring life into your patio with potted plants and incorporate decor pieces, such as vases and artwork. Pro tip: consider a projector screen if you’re in for a movie night under the stars. Thank us later!
Need some help with sprucing up your patio? Just book one of our Landscape Design Gurus here! They can look at your space over video chat and give you tips, ideas and guidance on how to achieve your dream outdoor space.