Before And After: 5 Tips For Fixing Up Your Outdoor Patio Space

As you can see this patio was a mis-match of outdoor furniture collected over time.  The finishes did not match (black railings, green table and chairs, bronze finish on lower level).  None of the fabrics matched in tone or color either.  And the style was out of date.  If you have a a similar situation and are looking to update a little at a time you can follow some of these tips to be sure your finished look will be cohesive.

Tip 1: Stick to neutrals on your furniture.  When redoing this outdoor patio space I took a hint from the railing on the patio which was black.  Then I found this dining set that incorporated both black and brown.  This allowed me more flexibility with materials and finishes as I added other pieces to the assortment for seating on the patio and in the yard. This furniture came from Lowe's Hardware and Pier 1.

Tip 2: Add color with pillows, cushions, containers, and other accessories.  I love this mixture of pillows.  The combination of a more modern graphic pattern and a petite floral creates visual interest.  The color palette I chose incorporated shades of aqua with brown and tans.  These containers are gorgeous and really make a statement. There are so many great lines with pillows crafted of outdoor fabric.

Tip 3: Be sure to have plenty of seating available.  If you have a large space create separate seating areas that provide for easy conversation and the comfort for your guest.  Because our dining set had both black and brown finishes these chairs in a brown finish blend nicely together with it.  The wicker sofa adds texture and a softness with natural materials to counteract all of the metal and mimic's the weave in the back of the dining chairs.

Tip 4: Coordinate all of the separate areas of your outdoor space.  These existing chairs had a bronze finish that I thought worked for this lower level area after we added cushions that incorporated our color palette of aqua brown and tan.  This paisley is really nice. A pair of black iron benches continues the theme in the yard area.  As with my interior designs, you can see that I prefer to have a more collected feel to furnishings.  I prefer to mix things up instead of buying everything from one matching set. This strategy of done right will create a pleasing but visual interesting space.

Tip 5: Activate the senses with a little added attention to detail.  Soft cushions to touch, candles and lighting for visual appeal, a little music for our ears which sets the mood, some live plants to transition between house and yard, and last but not least the aroma and taste of good food and beverage.  Put it all together and you will have a cohesive outdoor patio space that creates a total experience for family and friends.


We have had more icy weather here so I am surly looking forward to some sunshine and spending a little time outdoors.   -  Marianne