Summer is fast approaching and we thought it might be fun to look at some ideas for decorating your porches and patios.
Porches and patios give you the opportunity to catch a breath of fresh air while still enjoying a measure of privacy in your own apartment home. An extension of your apartment home, balconies and patios give you another opportunity to express your personal style, while also blending with the outdoor environment for a seamless, natural look. Here are a few tips to create your ideal outdoor space:
- First, select your “anchor” items and then you can decorate around those for holidays and special occasions. Anchor items are those items that probably won’t change much – bistro table and chairs and chaise lounges, potted plants, and the barbeque grill, if applicable. Once you have these items in place, you can change your patio’s look with accent pieces like rugs, chair cushions, and outdoor art.
- Don’t forget to measure the patio or balcony space before you buy your patio furniture. It seems like that’s a no-brainer, but we’ve all made the mistake of eyeing a space and making that purchase, only to find out the new furniture is never going to fit. Save yourself the hassle and get out the measuring tape.
- Blend, blend, blend. If your patio is directly off your living room or dining area, consider blending your décor style for a consistent look. Then accent with a pop of color in a rug or seat cushion. For instance, if your apartment home décor is mid-century modern, scout out some retro pieces, representing the outdoor version of your current style.
- Choose plants and flowers that will thrive on your patio. Make sure the flowers and plants you choose for your outdoor space are a match for the sun exposure and temperature. Then – don’t forget to water your newfound friends! Make sure your plants have a tray for excess water so you don’t drip on your neighbor’s outdoor space below or stain your patio rugs.
- Get patriotic! Here are 200-plus great ideas from Pintrest, to express our gratitude and sense of freedom to gather with family and friends on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veteran’s Day. Another idea is to display photos of beloved family members and friends who have bravely served and sacrificed for our freedom. Surround the photo with mini-flags, a string of lights, and some beautiful flowers to say that we will never forget.
- Turn your patio into an outdoor yoga studio. Turn your patio or balcony into a Zen-palace with bamboo plants, yoga rugs, and plenty of comfy seating where you can meditate afterward.
What are your décor ideas for a festive patio this summer? Share them with us at #LifeatWeidner.
-The Weidner Team