Category: Outdoor Space

A set of wicker chairs or an outdoor dining set is only the first step of designing a stylish patio space.

Creating a cohesive patio design is no different than decorating one of the interior rooms of your home. If you really want your outdoor living area to shine, you need to take a look at the big picture.

Outdoor patio decor is the secret to breathing life and personality into your backyard seating area or balcony. Keep reading for our favorite patio decor ideas and how to customize them to meet your needs!

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1. Maximize Comfort with Bench Seating

Bench seating is simple, versatile, and all-around perfect for nearly any outdoor living space. It’s also really easy to DIY.

If you’re handy with a set of tools, you can build a bench in a matter of a weekend. You can even include special features — built-in planters, hidden storage, etc. — in your custom bench design.

Of course, you don’t need to be a carpenter to create your own bench. Refinishing a used bench seat or constructing one out of reclaimed pallets or crates are a couple of easy options for DIY beginners!

2. Elevate Outdoor Dining with Patio Sets

Transform your patio into a dining haven with a well-chosen patio dining set. Select a set that complements the size of your patio and your home’s architectural style. Consider durable materials like wrought iron, teak, or aluminum, and add cushions for comfort.

A patio dining set not only provides a perfect spot for meals but also enhances your outdoor ambiance.

3. Create Intimacy with a Two-Person Patio Set

Ideal for small patios or intimate corners, a two-person patio set can create a cozy retreat.

Choose sets with comfortable chairs and a compact table, perfect for morning coffee or evening chats.

Opt for foldable or stackable furniture if space is limited, and add soft lighting and planters to create a romantic atmosphere.

4. Illuminate Evenings with String Lights

String lights can add a magical touch to your patio, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Wrap them around railings, drape them overhead, or string them along fences.

Choose LED lights for energy efficiency and longevity. For a unique touch, pick lights with different shapes or colors to reflect your personal style.

5. Enhance Privacy with Outdoor Curtains

Outdoor curtains can provide privacy and shade while adding an elegant touch to your patio. Choose weather-resistant fabrics in colors that complement your outdoor decor.

Curtains can be hung from a pergola, gazebo, or a curtain rod installed on your patio. They can be tied back for an airy feel or closed for intimate gatherings.

6. Stay Cool Under a Patio Umbrella

A patio umbrella is not only functional, providing shade and protection from the elements, but it can also be a stylish addition.

Choose umbrellas that match your patio’s color scheme and consider features like tilt mechanisms for optimal sun protection. An umbrella with a sturdy base ensures stability even on windy days.

7. Build a Paver Patio Oasis

Paver patios offer endless customization options to fit any style. Choose from various materials like concrete, stone, or brick, and play with patterns and colors for a unique design.

Paver patios are durable and low maintenance, perfect for creating an elegant outdoor living space that blends seamlessly with your garden.

8. DIY Plant Wall Patio

A DIY plant wall can turn a bland patio into a vibrant, living space. Select a mix of hanging and potted plants, and arrange them on shelving or a trellis. Consider a combination of perennials and annuals for year-round interest.

This vertical garden not only saves space but also adds a refreshing, natural element to your patio.

9. Warm Up Nights with a Cozy Firepit

If there’s one thing most backyard patios could benefit from, it’s a fire pit.

It doesn’t take much to make a DIY fire pit. A ring of large stones will suffice in many cases. Or you can invest in an affordable but durable metal fire pit.

Along with offering a wonderful place to gather and keep warm when the sun sets, a fire pit can also be used for roasting marshmallows or as a makeshift light source. All you need are a few comfortable seating options scattered around the perimeter.

10. Transform Patio with Gravel

Differentiating one section of your yard from another can have a huge impact on the design overall. While pavers and poured concrete can cost a pretty penny, gravel can be sourced for surprisingly cheap.

Use gravel to create a makeshift patio slab for furniture and a fire pit. Or use it to fill the gaps between larger stone pavers.

Gravel is also ideal for filling in areas where grass struggles or completely fails to grow. Eliminating unsightly patches is a great way to make your outdoor living space instantly more attractive.

11. Relax in Style with Comfortable Patio Furniture

Selecting the right furniture can turn your patio into a haven of relaxation. Look for weather-resistant materials and comfortable, durable cushions.

Mix and match different furniture pieces like sofas, armchairs, and ottomans to create a welcoming and versatile outdoor living area.

12. Add Elegance with a Classic Pergola

New or old, a pergola can bring a touch of luxury to any backyard patio. But there are also many ways to upgrade this backyard structure on your own.

String lighting is remarkably easy to hang from a standard pergola. Use a nearby outlet or solar panels to power your patio lights.

Keep out wind and prying eyes by mounting curtains or trellises around your pergola’s perimeter. You can do the same with the roof of your pergola to block out some of the sun’s scorching rays.

13. Unwind in a Stylish Swing Chair

There are a couple of ways to go about adding a swing to your patio. The one you choose will largely depend on your engineering skills and confidence with a basic set of tools!

If decorating under a pergola or a covered porch, you may be able to hang the swing right from the structure overhead. Uncovered patios can also benefit from this seating option. You’ll just need to invest in a freestanding swing design instead.

Finish off your porch swing with custom throw pillows, a seat cushion, or even a full-size blanket for colder nights.

14. Separate Spaces with a Wall Divider

Create distinct areas on your patio with a stylish wall divider. This can be a lattice, a vertical garden, or a decorative screen. It’s ideal for separating dining and lounging areas, or for adding privacy. Choose materials and designs that harmonize with your overall patio decor.

15. Ensure Privacy with a Wooden Wall

A wooden privacy wall can shield your patio from neighbors and passersby. It can be a simple fence or a more elaborate design with shelves for plants or integrated seating. Stain or paint the wood to match your home’s exterior for a cohesive look.

16. Embrace Boho Vibes in Patio Design

Bohemian-inspired decor is one of the most popular trends in porch and patio design. With a relaxed look that can be customized to fit almost any space, it’s hard to say no to including some boho charm in your patio decor.

Natural materials are a must-have when styling a Bohemian space. Reach for furniture and accent decor made of wicker, rattan, bamboo, or other organic textiles.

Boho design really shines as a way to mix and match various colors, textures, and aesthetics in one space. Take advantage of local yard sales, consignment shops, and antique dealers when outfitting your patio.

17. Relax in Iconic Adirondack Chairs

Adirondack chairs are classic and comfortable, perfect for lounging on the patio. Made from wood or plastic, they come in various colors and styles.

Pair them with a side table and a soft outdoor blanket for a cozy reading spot or a place to enjoy sunset views.

18. Enjoy Flexibility with a Retractable Canopy

A retractable canopy offers versatile shade options for your patio. It can be extended to provide full coverage on sunny days or retracted for stargazing at night.

Choose a canopy that matches your patio’s aesthetic and ensure it’s made of durable, weather-resistant material.

19. Stay Shaded with a Modern Shade Sail

Shade sails are a contemporary, artistic way to provide sun protection. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be arranged in creative ways to add visual interest.

Ensure they are properly anchored for safety and adjust them seasonally for optimal shade.

20. Define Your Space with an Outdoor Rug

An outdoor rug can tie together your patio’s decor, adding color and comfort underfoot. Choose a rug that’s durable, easy to clean, and resistant to the elements.

It can anchor your seating area, add warmth to the space, and reflect your personal style.

21. Celebrate Autumn with Pumpkin-Themed Decor

Embrace the fall season by decorating your patio with pumpkins and autumnal accents. Arrange pumpkins of different sizes and colors, add fall-themed pillows, and incorporate seasonal plants like mums.

23. Combine Style with a Deck and Patio Combo

A backyard deck offers a ton of space for grilling, entertaining, or just relaxing. While the sheer square footage can feel overwhelming at first, it’s no different than decorating any other type of patio.

Many of the best decor additions will be the ones you don’t expect to see outdoors! Plush cushions and unique patio lighting can make the space feel particularly warm and cozy.

Consider splitting your deck into multiple areas using furniture and outdoor decor. Strategically placed tables, seating areas, and tall decor can divide the space without a need for walls. An outdoor rug can be used to differentiate one part of your deck from another.

24. Channel Rustic Charm with Farmhouse Patio Decor

Do you want your backyard patio to feel as warm and inviting as possible? You really can’t go wrong drawing inspiration from the farmhouse interior decor trend.

All you need to do is invest in outdoor-safe versions of your favorite farmhouse decor to bring this aesthetic to life. Many items, like furniture made of wicker or reclaimed wood, are already popular in patio design anyway.

Potted greenery is a must-have on any farmhouse-inspired patio. While it might not be your first instinct, tropical plants like palm trees and ferns work particularly well with this outdoor decor style!

25. Experience Comfort in a Hanging Egg Chair

Hanging egg chairs can be a cozy nook for reading or a unique seating option for guests. Ensure it’s securely installed and add cushions for extra comfort. Its distinctive design can serve as a focal point for your patio.

26. Opt for Classic Elegance with Red Brick Pavers

Red brick pavers offer a timeless look for your patio. They’re durable, easy to maintain, and can be laid in various patterns. Complement the red brick with neutral furniture and greenery for a classic, elegant outdoor space.

27. Green Up Your Patio with Beautiful Plants

Adding plants to your patio can create a serene, natural environment. Choose a mix of potted plants, hanging baskets, and even a small herb garden.

Consider plants that repel insects, provide fragrance, or add color. Arrange them at different heights for visual interest.

A brick patio has a finished and professional-looking design that elevates your backyard space. You can have one in your backyard no matter what your budget and design aesthetic is. So cover your ugly poured concrete patio or build a new patio that adds more usable space in your backyard.

These brick patio ideas will help you design the perfect brick patio for your outdoor living space.

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1. Circular (Round) Brick Patios

Arranging the bricks in a circular pattern can give your backyard an interesting patio design. However, you’ll need more space in your backyard to build your patio because the usable square footage is smaller. You don’t have the corners like you would with a square or rectangle patio. For maximum space, consider adding a curved portion to one of the straight sides of your patio.

Another great option is to use the bricks as a round patio located in the middle of your backyard. It can be a small patio that joins multiple walkways together. A circular patio is also good as the base for a fire pit because the round patio mirrors the round fire pit. Consider building one in your garden for a small bench or a cafe table and chairs.

2. Fire Pit Designs in Brick Patio Setting

Adding a fire pit to your backyard gives you a warm gathering place. The fire adds a gentle glowing light that is perfect for evening entertaining. The warmth from the fire helps keep you comfortable when the temperatures dip. Bricks are heat-resistant and durable, making them perfect for building your fire pit. You can build a pit that’s the perfect size for your backyard and budget.

If a fire pit seems a bit too casual for your backyard, then build an outdoor fireplace instead. This patio idea is perfect for turning your patio into an outdoor living room. Instead of Adirondack chairs, arrange living room inspired patio furniture like a sofa and accent chairs. Build a cover over the backyard patio furniture so that you can enjoy the fireplace throughout the year.

3. Interlocking Brick Patterns for Stylish Patios

When using rectangular-shaped bricks, you aren’t stuck with laying them in rows. While you can use this simple pattern for the walkways, get more creative with the large spaces, like the patio area. Use the paving stones to create an interlocking pattern. For example, a herringbone pattern looks a bit like a chevron pattern, but the angled bricks interlock with each other.

There are also paving stones that come in a specific shape designed for interlocking. When looked at individually, the stones look strange and lopsided. However, once you start placing them, you’ll see that they perfectly line up with the stones around them. The finished look is an interlocking pattern that looks intricate.

4. Modern and Customizable Brick Paver Designs

Modern clay pavers are the next generation of red bricks. They come in more colors so that you can choose a custom color for your paver patio. They also come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. This helps you create a custom design by using more than one type of paver for your patio. Perhaps you use a wedge shape to create a circular pattern. Then add a border and transition into using a square, rectangle, round, or hexagon shape.

Consider the size, shape, and color when picking out multiple pavers. They need to be different enough to look purposeful and complement each other for a cohesive design. For a modern look, consider using grass as a part of your design. Depending on where you live, you could use moss, dwarf mondo grass, or artificial turf to add natural green accents to your paver design.

5. Traditional Red Brick Patios

Red brick pavers give your brick patio design a traditional look. They are perfect for a colonial style or another classically designed home. They can also elevate the look of your home. To keep the traditional feel, stick with the standard brick size and have them professionally laid. This ensures they have the proper base so that they don’t shift or sink over time.

Plan to add a finished edge of larger bricks or pavers to your red brick patio. A metal rail or concrete edge is also strong enough to hold your bricks in place. This gives your patio a polished look that keeps it in line with traditional designs. Simply using more brick isn’t enough and won’t be strong enough to hold your bricks securely for the long term. You also need to think about the pattern you’ll create with your red bricks. Laying them in lines is easy but boring. Place them in a herringbone pattern for an elevated look.

“Outdoor living rooms are becoming big. People aren’t traveling as much anymore, and they want to add another room to have a vacation at home.” – Cory Curtis

If it’s time to add outdoor living space to your home, bench seating is a great thing to include in your porch or deck design. Bench seating can be freestanding, or built into the deck structure itself. You can also add bench seating to arbors, pergolas, and planters.

Outdoor bench seating adds longstanding value to your home, whether made from wood or composite decking material. Browse our collection of best deck bench ideas and see how much ambiance this extra seating option can add to your new or existing deck.

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1. L-Shaped Deck Bench

L-Shaped deck benches are a smart solution for maximizing corner spaces. These benches provide ample seating while maintaining a seamless look that complements the deck’s geometry. Consider using weather-resistant materials like cedar or composite for longevity. Soften these benches with colorful cushions and throw pillows for a welcoming touch.

2. Deck With Built-In Bench

A deck with a built-in bench merges functionality and style effortlessly. This design transforms the perimeter of your deck into a continuous seating area, perfect for entertaining. Select a wood finish that matches your deck for a cohesive look, and add cushions for comfort. This setup not only saves space but also gives a streamlined appearance.

3. Deck Bench With Backrest

Deck benches with backrests offer superior comfort and support. Ideal for lengthy gatherings, these benches invite relaxation with their ergonomic design. Use a combination of wood and metal for a contemporary feel, or stick with full wood for a traditional look. Enhance these benches with plush backrest cushions for added comfort.

4. Deck Bench with Planter Boxes

Integrating planter boxes into deck benches is a creative way to bring greenery closer. This combination not only serves as a seating area but also as a home for your favorite plants. Opt for built-in planter boxes at the ends of the bench or in between sections for a natural, lively ambiance.

5. Bench with a Fire Pit

A bench circling a fire pit creates an inviting focal point on your deck. This layout promotes social interaction and warmth on cooler evenings. Choose materials that complement the fire pit, like stone or heat-resistant metals, for a cohesive look. Ensure adequate spacing and safety measures for a comfortable, worry-free experience.

6. Wood Pallet Bench

A wood pallet bench introduces a rustic charm to your deck. This eco-friendly option, made from repurposed pallets, is both cost-effective and stylish. Stain or paint the pallets to match your deck’s theme. For a more comfortable seating experience, add custom cushions and throw pillows.

7. Curved Deck Bench

Curved deck benches are perfect for adding a dynamic element to your outdoor space. These benches work well with decks that have circular or curved sections, providing a fluid look. Choose materials that bend easily, like treated lumber or flexible composites. Add curved cushions for comfort and aesthetic appeal.

8. Corner Deck Bench

Utilize every inch of your deck with a corner bench. This design fits snugly into deck corners, offering additional seating without taking up much space. A corner bench can be either built-in or standalone, depending on your deck’s layout. Accessorize with colorful cushions and a small side table for functionality.

9. Deck Bench With Pergola

A deck bench under a pergola combines seating with shade. This setup is perfect for enjoying the outdoors while being protected from direct sunlight. The pergola can be adorned with climbing plants or string lights for a magical touch. Choose a bench style that complements the pergola’s design for a harmonious look.

10. Vintage-Style Church Pew Bench

Introduce a touch of nostalgia with a vintage-style church pew bench. This unique seating option adds character and a timeless elegance to your deck. To maintain the vintage feel, opt for distressed wood finishes and classic cushion patterns.

11. Farmhouse-Style Deck Bench

Embrace rustic charm with a farmhouse-style deck bench. This design typically features simple lines and a sturdy build, often using reclaimed wood for an authentic look. Accentuate the bench with cozy, country-style cushions and throws. Ideal for a laid-back, homey deck atmosphere.

12. Built-In Deck Bench With Storage

A built-in deck bench with storage offers a dual-purpose solution. This space-saving design provides comfortable seating and a hidden area to store deck accessories. Choose a hinged seat top for easy access. This functional addition keeps your deck organized and clutter-free.

13. Floating Deck Bench

Floating deck benches add a modern, minimalist touch. These benches appear to hover above the deck, offering a sleek and uncluttered look. Opt for sturdy brackets and hardware to ensure stability. Pair with clean-lined cushions for a contemporary vibe.

14. High-Low Deck Bench

A high-low deck bench creates visual interest with its varying heights. This design is perfect for decks with multi-level sections. It adds a playful, yet practical element to your seating arrangement. Combine different materials like wood and metal for an eclectic look.

15. Deck Bench With a Privacy Fence

Combine comfort with seclusion by adding a privacy fence to your deck bench. This design is ideal for creating a secluded retreat within your outdoor space. The fence can be adorned with lattice work or climbing plants for an aesthetic touch. A perfect spot for reading or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee.

16. Wooden and Metal Bench

This modern wooden and metal bench is an excellent addition to any deck, offering both style and durability. Position it in a shaded corner or along a railing for a cozy seating area. Enhance its comfort and visual appeal with colorful cushions, nearby planters, and a small side table for drinks or decor.

You don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great outdoor space.  Look for backyard ideas that feature affordable materials and projects you can do yourself. By doing most of the work yourself, you can have an outdoor living space that you can enjoy. Whether your backyard is large or small, you don’t have to spend a fortune on your patio. 

These cheap patio ideas will help you build a backyard patio that you can be proud of.

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1. Spruce Up with an Outdoor Rug

Outdoor rugs effortlessly elevate patio aesthetics, especially in high-traffic zones. Choose durable materials like polypropylene for easy cleaning. To maximize visual appeal, experiment with different patterns and hues, harmonizing them with your existing decor to craft a cohesive, vibrant outdoor space.

2. Elevate Greenery with Pallet Planters

Pallet planters offer a cost-effective rustic charm and a versatile planting platform. Consider cultivating fresh herbs or starting a vegetable patch to enrich your patio. When crafting your planter, integrate varied plants for a personalized touch, ensuring a harmonious blend with your patio’s overall aesthetic.

3. Illuminate Nights with String Lights

String lights offer an affordable solution to cast a cozy glow on patios. Strategically hanging them around or above seating areas can introduce a dreamy ambiance. Consider a zigzag pattern for heightened drama, but ensure they’re securely supported and positioned at a safe height to harmonize function and aesthetic effortlessly.

4. Warm Up with a DIY Fire Pit

A DIY fire pit is both a functional and stylish addition to any patio. Opt for materials like brick or stone for a lasting structure. Before construction, familiarize yourself with local fire codes, then start with a sturdy base using bricks or concrete blocks. Surround your fire pit with cozy seating to maximize enjoyment during colder nights. With proper planning and a touch of creativity, you can have a captivating centerpiece that’s budget-friendly.

5. Swing in a Cozy Hanging Chair

Transform an old chair into a hanging oasis using chains or opt for a DIY macramé chair with thick rope. If you prefer ready-made, consider trendy egg chairs or portable hammocks. These swinging seats offer style, comfort, and a budget-friendly approach to elevate your patio’s ambiance.

6. Shade with a Stylish Pop-Up Gazebo

Pop-up gazebos provide an easy-to-set-up, movable shade solution for patios. Available in various sizes and designs, they’re a budget-friendly roofing alternative. Ensure proper assembly with a helping hand, and anchor securely using weights or stakes for stability. This addition allows for weatherproof relaxation and outdoor entertainment.

7. Craft Comfort with Pallet Furniture

Wooden pallets offer a cost-effective foundation for crafting outdoor furniture, from sofas to coffee tables. For a rustic flair, incorporate reclaimed wood. Ensure pallets are sanded smoothly to avoid splinters and enhance comfort with cushions and throw pillows, creating a cozy and budget-friendly patio seating.

8. Stay Cool Beneath a Picnic Umbrella

Picnic umbrellas offer a budget-friendly solution for shade and introduce vibrant colors to patios. Complement with affordable outdoor seating like colorful plastic chairs or wooden benches. Enhance the ambiance further with string lights or potted plants, creating a cozy, budget-conscious outdoor retreat.

9. Beautify Spaces with Patio Tiles

Colorful patio tiles can swiftly enhance your outdoor area’s look, allowing the flooring to take center stage. Minimize furniture, possibly adding lounge chairs or a bistro set for simplicity. Decorative tiles negate the need for lavish furniture, offering an affordable yet striking patio makeover.

10. Build a Rustic Pallet Deck

A wooden pallet deck is an affordable way to rejuvenate your outdoor area. Source pallets from local hardware stores or online platforms, and craft them into an elegant deck foundation. Enhance the look with vibrant outdoor rugs, comfortable seating, and greenery through potted plants or hanging baskets.

11. Add Texture with a Pebble Patio

Pebble patios offer an affordable and serene upgrade to outdoor spaces. This low-maintenance flooring option imparts a tranquil, zen ambiance. It’s ideal for both outdoor dining areas or calming retreats, ensuring a stylish and cost-effective transformation for any patio setting.

12. Create Seclusion with a Private Fence

Choose materials like wood or vinyl to tailor a fence to your budget and aesthetics. Repurposed wooden pallets offer a rustic alternative, which can be painted or transformed into vertical gardens. Introduce trellises for added privacy, creating a canvas for climbing plants. A classic picket fence, meanwhile, imbues any patio with timeless charm.

13. Relax in Classic Adirondack Chairs

Adirondack chairs exude a rustic relaxation, ideal for sun-soaked lounging or friendly chats. Customize with paint to match your patio’s palette or retain their wooden charm. Complement with a patterned outdoor rug and overhead string lights, effortlessly crafting a comfortable and chic patio haven.

14. Feel Nature with Artificial Grass

Artificial grass offers a low-maintenance, green solution for patios without the upkeep real grass demands. Easily tailored to various sizes and shapes, its installation is a breeze. Once laid and secured, it revitalizes your patio’s aesthetic. Complement with comfortable outdoor furnishings for a complete, verdant retreat.

15. Cultivate in a Raised Garden Bed

Incorporate a raised garden bed to infuse charm and functionality into your patio. Ideal for growing herbs or vegetables, these beds can be easily crafted with affordable bricks. Stack them, fill with soil, and enjoy a cost-effective gardening space. It’s not only a chic patio addition but also an engaging way to connect with nature.

16. Enhance Ambiance with Lovely Plants

Introducing greenery elevates a patio’s ambiance and offers color splashes. Strategically position potted plants around seating areas, corners, or suspend them overhead. Utilize repurposed pallets or ladders for vertical gardens. For added functionality, choose plants like basil or lavender; they naturally repel insects and infuse your space with pleasant aromas.

17. Relax in a Cozy Egg Chair

Relax in style with a comfortable outdoor egg chair, featuring a plush brown cushion and a sleek black frame, perfect for any patio or balcony.