Summer Living: 5 Tips for Decorating Outdoors

May 12, 2017
by Jessica

The warmer weather is finally here and we are so excited to get the patios and decks cleaned, the outdoor furniture set up and the planters filled with flowers. There is nothing better than having an intimate outdoor space that is warm and welcoming. I recently helped some friends set up their deck space that overlooks the lake. Talk about a beautiful spot right?

They moved in about a year ago so this is essentially their first full summer in their new home. The goal was to add greenery and furnishings, but not block the view. The first order of business was to create a seating area that would act as an extension of the inside of their home. Outdoor furniture that is made of resin (but looks like wicker) is a great solution for providing appropriate outdoor seating.

Photo by Four Generations One Roof

Anchor the space with an outdoor rug. This particular rug is a 5′ x 7′ and fits perfectly on their deck. I love how the blue outdoor furniture cushions and rug coordinate together.

Photo by Four Generations One Roof

I picked up a few ceramic planters in varying sizes and colors from HomeGoods and filled them with floor plants, fresh flowers and annuals. We decided that white planters in different textures, along with sand colored planters, would help balance the blue rug and cushions.

Photo by Four Generations One Roof

Instead of a traditional coffee table, we opted for an outdoor firepit that acts as a table too. The outdoor floor pouf from HomeGoods serves as extra seating for guests.

Next, add all weather throw pillows. For those of you who know me, you know I love pops of color in space. So, I purchased all the throw pillows from HomeGoods featuring pops of orange, along with tan stripes and a geometric pattern.

Photo by Four Generations One Roof

I always add one or two indoor floor plants (this one is a small palm tree) to my outdoor space. Most days and/or nights, it’s fine to leave them outside, but if we are getting a rain storm or extremely hot weather, I will bring them inside.

The addition of the white table and floor candle holders from HomeGoods finished off the look, acting as both mood lighting and bug repellant! The citronella candles from HomeGoods are absolutely gorgeous.

Photo by Four Generations One Roof

I also love adding a fresh hydrangea plant to my patio or deck. You can plant them in a planter for the summer months and then plant them in the ground during the fall. I have done this for several years and they come back every year looking amazing! I also do the same thing with small rose bushes.

Now, I just need to get my own deck decorated for summer! Needless to say, I plan on having a few cocktails on this deck and enjoying the view this summer.

Jessica is a paid blogger. View more of her work at Four Generations One Roof.

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