Expert Tips for Styling Your Patio

If you’re ready to give your patio a facelift this spring but aren’t sure where to start, keep these tips in mind to help you put your best design foot forward:

Channel your interior design and bring it outside
Whatever style, colors and textures you love for your interior should be the focus of your exterior design plan. If you love the Bohemian style, find a way to transform your patio into a boho paradise. If you love a more classic and structured look, bring it with you outside. You’ll use the space more when your view seamlessly transitions from indoors out.

Mix and match furniture instead of purchasing a suite
While many stores sell outdoor furniture in sets, some stores, like Target, sell furniture “separates” so you can curate a look that is coordinating but not matchy-matchy. Their online selection is excellent, as is Amazon’s. You can find ideas for coordinating furniture here.

- Sponsors -

Keep it simple
Your exterior space doesn’t need to be complicated. Adopt the mantra “Keep it Simple” as you curate items for your patio. Make a plan and stick to it. It’s easy to go overboard at HomeGoods, but planning will save you money, and, eventually, time cleaning, when the pollen falls and you have to dust a thousand outdoor tchotchkes. 

Make it comfortable
Pretty and Instagram-worthy shouldn’t be the only goals in designing your new space. Make sure you find furniture that is comfortable to sit and lounge so you’ll get maximum use from your investment.

Make it durable
We live in a pretty harsh environment for outdoor furniture. If your porch, patio or deck doesn’t have a roof, your furniture will need protection from the sun and rain. I recommend using Rustoleum’s Never Wet to keep water from soaking into cushions.

Catherine Arensberg is an exterior designer who specializes in finding ways to create your ultimate outdoor space, no matter the budget. Browse more of her work here: catherinearensberg.com

Get the best of Mobile delivered to your inbox

Be the first to know about local events, home tours, restaurant reviews and more!