Home Updates

My Back Patio: Sad to Fab!

My patio was in dire need of an upgrade. The cushions were falling apart, the metal seats had broken slats, and the whole space just looked sad. I originally planned to just replace the disintegrating cushions, but I fell in love with a new look with more modern, neutral chairs with texture and a couch with texture, too. With new plants, it ended up looking so fresh and I love sitting out there even more now.

Before photo of the tired space. It became cluttered, too, over the several years.

Here’s what I did to upgrade my patio:

  1. Shopping and thrifting: I didn’t rely on one store, nor did I buy sets as they came. To get a curated look, you want to mix and match.
  2. Removed the old cushions and seats: I started by removing the old cushions and seats that were in disrepair. This gave me a clean slate to work with. BONUS: it was garbage overflow day that week, so I immediately got rid of the broken stuff.
  3. Removed the orangey rug: outdoor rugs get a beating, and mine had formed an orange color from being wet so many times and have countless tree stuff land on it. It was time to go!
  4. Cleaned the patio: I swept and hosed down the patio to remove any dirt or debris.
  5. I laid down a new rug: also an outdoor rug, I think I snagged the last of its kind over at TJ Maxx. I fell for the neutral colors and texture in the design.
  6. Assemble the seats: These black and rope chairs instantly looked fresh and modern. I knew my husband would like the more neutral look.
  7. Assemble the couch: My husband helped me as getting those screws in between the ropes was a little tricky. But so worth it! I originally contemplated an L-shaped couch but it would have taken up too much space. This compromise still gives me more seating than the former loveseat, and I can even lay down if I want.
  8. Added new pillows: I added new pillows that felt like a fun complement to the new tan and gray furniture.
  9. Added new plants: I added new plants to the patio to give it a fresh look. I especially love the cascading vines – it adds some romantic magic to the space.
  10. Added new accessories: My little table to host my cold drinks cost me just $5 at the thrift store. All I did was sand off the old, dark stain and paint the mosaic tile a gray to blend in with the rest of the decor. Plus, new ceramic pots in blacks and creams to match the neutral backdrop.
After the remodel: new furniture, rug, plants, and accessories.

Here are some tips for upgrading your patio:

  • Start with a clean slate. Remove any old or damaged furniture or accessories.
  • Choose a color scheme for your patio. This will help you to choose the right furniture, accessories, and plants.
  • Start with the big stuff and work your way down: furniture, rug, pillows, accessories.
  • Add plants to your patio to create a relaxing and inviting, life-like atmosphere.
  • Add personal touches to your patio, such as photos, artwork, or candles & blankets.
  • Enjoy your new and improved patio! Since we’re in Wisconsin, I’m using it as much as possible.
I loved the texture on the sides – gives it a modern, airy look for outdoors.
Plus, the lavender pillow was clearanced for just $10.
Isn’t the rope texture on these chairs fun? I did buy covers to keep these white cushions from the Morning Dove’s early droppings from the top of the pergola. 🙂
And this table was just $5 at the thrift store. You can find amazing deals if you imagine them differently.

I’m so happy with how my patio turned out. It’s now a space that I love to spend time in. I hope this blog post has inspired you to upgrade your patio.

Thank you for reading!

Please leave a comment below if you have any questions or comments.

Be inspired!

Kellee


See what’s next! Subscribe to my Blog to get future posts sent right to your email.

Leave a comment


Copyright © 2024 Charm & Grit. All Rights Reserved.

Leave a comment