Ideas for Decorating Your Outdoor Living Spaces

Temperatures are rising, flowers are blooming, and we’re all excited to get out of our homes and into the fresh air. After a long year of staying indoors, many of us are looking forward to redesigning or redecorating our outdoor spaces, so we can gather with friends and family in a safe, controlled area. 

We’ve got some fun ideas for you, whether you're building new spaces or are just looking for easy-to-incorporate ideas.

Maybe this is the year you take on that project you’ve been putting off. If you’re starting from scratch, you might consider a deck or patio. These structures are a great extension from the back or side of your home into your yard. And there is some much you can do with them. For example, imagine a beautiful stone patio coming off the back of your home where you can gather with friends and family or just relax with a cup of coffee. Decks and patios are like blank canvases you can decorate to make your own. 

But building a deck or patio can be pricey. Maybe you’re looking for something a little smaller and cheaper. No problem! There are plenty of affordable options out there. Have you considered a pergola or gazebo? These structures provide a semi-covered escape from the sun and are great spaces for a café or outdoor dining table. If you haven’t dined under a pergola, you have to try it--it’s magical. 

If you want something smaller than a pergola, try an arch or a trellis. They’re easy to set up and so easy to decorate with climbing plants. They also break up the space by giving you the feeling of walking from one space into a new space. Another great way to define your outdoor spaces is with fencing. Not only do fences offer privacy, but also an opportunity for decoration. 

If you’re looking for decoration ideas that require less work, you’ll love these. 

When you’re brainstorming outdoor décor, think about all of the possibilities. You can incorporate typical décor like rugs and pillows, as well as fun lighting, plants, and even fire and water features. 

There are tons of outdoor fabrics in unique designs available. Find a unique piece to be your accent and build the colors for your space around it. You can also find awnings and patio covers with unique designs to fit your taste and provide cover from the elements. If you need help finding the right fabric for your space, reach out to a professional upholsterer near you. 

Speaking of the elements, try harnessing fire and water. For example, a firepit gives you and your guest a warm place to congregate around, not to mention the extra light when the sun starts to set. And you can balance out the fire pit with a lovely flowing fountain. Fountains and their constant trickle really set a relaxing mood. Like fire and water? Combine them! Fill a glass vase with water and set floating candles atop. The effect is mesmerizing.

When it comes to lighting, you have so many options. Candles, tiki torches, LED lights, the list goes on. But right now, string lights are in. Whether they’re draped over the patio or wrapped around a trellis, they are beautiful. But so are Chinese lanterns, which you can hang around your outdoor space.

And finally, what would an outdoor space be without plants? A pergola, trellis, or lattice fence are great opportunities for climbing plants. You can also try hanging plants like ferns. Or, try placing a variety of types and sizes of plants around your outdoor space. You can move these around as much as you want to give a different effect. 

Whatever you decide to do with your outdoor space, make sure it fits your sense of décor and makes you want to spend more time there. And prepare yourself for the compliments when you host friends and family