Spring is always a time of renewal — new buds on the trees, new scents and sounds, new clothing styles. It also is a good time to renew your patio or other outdoor gathering place. Here are eight ways to update outdoor living spaces in the spring that you can accomplish with ease and little expense.
First, look at the space you have. There may be more to it than you have considered. Side yards, for example, can easily become a resting spot with a couple of cafe chairs and a small drink stand. Perhaps the main area in the yard can use some pruning of the trees and shrubs to free up more space and create a more orderly border.
Consider switching out your old brick pavers with the rustic feel and irregular shapes of flagstone. You will need some help or specialized equipment to move any heavy stones, but just a few can bring a spacious flat area for furnishings. The shapes will create a more natural feel than staid brick and will help break up the architectural lines of your home.
Less Work for More Appeal
Whether or not you decide to take on the work of changing the look of the base of your outdoor space, there are many possibilities that take much less muscle. A few changes in colors or the addition of some extras can update the overall appearance of your outdoors in no time.
Cushions of outdoor fabric are easy to exchange and will make a dramatic difference. The lawn chairs may remain the same, but visitors will be excited with new colors and patterns, particularly if you add some plush pillows to the mix.
Speaking of furniture, a good way to remove the clutter from your outdoor living space and update the look is to exchange a group of chairs for a couple of benches. They should be covered with cushions that complement the remaining chairs. Consider adding a day bed rather than the typical lounge chair for a more romantic tint.
If you do not have a lot of natural shade from overhanging tree branches, incorporate a quality umbrella that is wide enough to cover those seated around the table. The umbrella needs to be in a solid or pattern that will go with the seat cushions and bring the look together.
Explore the Possibilities
Explore your yard to see if there are any out-of-the-way spots that can be turned into a quiet, romantic meeting spot for two. If the greenery allows, the spot can seem secluded even if it is right out the back door. Just situate a couple of comfortable hoop chairs around a low table rather than a standard cafe table.
Lighting is another consideration. Landscape lighting can make the features of any back yard more dramatic. Visit a lighting specialist or a home decor store to view the myriad new ways of adding lights to your outdoor room, often at a remarkably reasonable price.
Consider the possibility of adding a fire pit to your space as a focal point in the landscape and a natural gathering space. Fire pits come in many styles and sizes and are easy to use and maintain.
Updating your living space can also include adding new foliage to liven the atmosphere. For example, use a potted plant rather than flowers as the centerpiece of your table. Or add over-sized planters that can contain one large plant or a variety bouquet. Add annuals around the perimeter of your patio or deck that you can change as the seasons change for a look that will always be renewed for your guests.