I don’t know about you, but the transition to summer is always my favorite. When the calendar says summer and the weather is cooperating, I feel ready to bring the lightness of the season to our outdoor spaces.
This year, I decided to decorate by the calendar, so I have been lightening and brightening our patio for the last couple of weeks. Today I’m sharing a few easy decorating tips for a fresh look.
Add a Fireplace
A larger fireplace creates a really bold statement and makes the whole area feel so much more expansive and alive.
If you have enough room for a fireplace, I say absolutely go for it. This is a perfect way to really elevate your porch. You can take it even further by adding a TV with it, which instantly creates the best part of your outdoor area.
This combo turns your porch into a second hangout spot for you and your guests. It’s all about transforming the space and giving it the most relaxing vibe possible.
Go with Built-ins
When you’re looking for furniture that fits your space and personal style perfectly, it’s time to consider built-ins. I love this option because not only is it incredibly versatile and works with the decor you already own, but it also gives you a chance to get creative without holding back.
The whole goal is making the room feel as cohesive as it can be. Trust me, once you go with custom built-in decor, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
Create a Tropical Vibe
I mean, who doesn’t dream of a decorated space that feels like a mini-vacation every time you step into it? It’s totally possible to create that getaway vibe right at home. You can do this by bringing in some lounge chairs and adding a few tropical touches here and there.
This will make your area feel so unique and fresh. If you don’t have a lot of natural plants around, think about adding some large planters to embrace the room and nail that tropical feel.
I’d suggest keeping the landscaping looking as luxurious as you can for a truly engaging atmosphere.
Play with Bold Patterns
While not every spot in your house needs to shout “summer,” I think the porch definitely should! This is the perfect place to bring in bold patterns throughout your decor. Think about using patterned cushions or even some upholstered pieces.
The idea is to pack in as much character and pattern as you can without missing a beat. I like to work with a mix of neutral and colorful pieces to really get the most out of the space in a super chic way.
Make It Feel Cozy
Making an outdoor area feel cozy should be a totally natural process. You can start by bringing in a swinging chair, lots of cushions, and maybe even a rug to get that welcoming, intimate feel.
Crafting an intimate space gives your home a really sharp, chic atmosphere that it absolutely deserves. I’d try to work with as many intimate items as possible, like candles, a comfy seating spot, and a little table for your drinks.
Decorate the Ceiling
One of the best tricks for creating height and a cool contrasting look is to decorate the ceiling. Dressing up your ceiling is a fantastic option if you want to create a stylish space without going totally overboard.
Bring in some unique light fixtures and hanging plants. Having a mix of both is perfect for anyone who wants a chic way to display their favorite things.
For the best result, I recommend going for a charming approach that has a bit of a colorful twist.
Add Mudroom Function
Instead of letting your main mudroom get overcrowded, why not treat your porch like a second one? Just secure a few hooks on the wall and maybe add a bench or two. This simple addition gives you a bonus mudroom where you can hang coats, jackets, or sweaters.
This little trick creates that functional mudroom feel that also serves as a spot where you can sit and enjoy the outdoors. I’ve found that minimal decor works really well with this setup.
Load Up on Greenery
Okay, so you’ve got a gorgeous porch, but there aren’t enough plants to give you good shade. What’s the plan? The answer is super simple! Just bring in more greenery and let the plants be the main event.
Think about getting multiple plants and just scattering them around the space. Doing this lets you work with the area you have and makes the room feel fresh and clean all the time. I love using different sized plants for a look that’s both contemporary and chic.
Create a Little Contrast
It doesn’t matter if your space is huge or tiny—creating some contrast is always a great move. You could take a decent-sized table and pair it with a few stools to make a little spot for eating.
It’s a flexible space you can use to eat, hang out, or just show off some of your decor. For an extra touch, bring in a built-in bench that’s always there and ready for you when you step outside.
Scatter Your Seating
Having plenty of seating options can really help you handle all kinds of situations. Whether you’re having guests over or just want to sit outside with the whole family, it lets you make the most of your space.
The key is to use different types of seating, like a chair and a sofa, and arrange them around the room. Creating this kind of contrast makes the area feel new and put-together at the same time.
I recommend scattering your seats to take up as much space as you can while keeping things versatile.
You can totally take your porch to the next level with any of these ideas, or even by mixing and matching a few of them. So, which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
