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50 Inspiring Decor Tips to Make Your Patio the Outdoor Area You've Always Wanted

Affordable ways to make your space stand out, regardless of its size.

Brie Williams

Don't worry if embarking on a major renovation isn't a priority for you in the near future. You can still craft a stylish and comfortable space without breaking the bank, and your patio is a great place to start. From arranging vertical gardens to choosing the right furniture and lighting, a well-decorated patio can make all the difference.

Get ready to enjoy the warm weather ahead by browsing these 50 creative patio and porch decor ideas. You're bound to land on some clever design pointers that are worth incorporating into your outdoor retreat.

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Experiment with Checkered Flooring

If you've had enough of your drab patio flooring, bring your space to life with tiles in a checkered pattern that complements your furnishings.

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Display Plants on a Fence

Looking for a way to elevate a basic wooden fence? Mix and match your favorite potted plants to give it an eye-catching look.

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Amp Up Accessories

Simple yet stylish accessories, like a woven tray for serving cocktails and easy desserts, is a must-have for an inviting patio.

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Swing Chair

Any patio can benefit from a playful piece of furniture, like a swing chair crafted of materials such as rattan or wicker.

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Anchor Seating with a Petite Table

Curious about the easiest way to bring charm to a patio setup with woven chairs? Place a low-profile table, topped with a colorful floral arrangement, right in between them.

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Incorporate a Foundation

Balance a yard full of greenery — and add a sophisticated flair to your space — with a tall garden fountain.

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Place a Rug Under Your Dining Table

Rugs never fail to make a design scheme feel more cozy. Bring a dose of comfort to your patio setup by placing a graphic rug under your dining table set. Your guests are guaranteed to be impressed.

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Don't Overlook Brick Flooring

Brick flooring isn't just a long-lasting option for your patio — it looks great, too.

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Weave in a Hammock

There's nothing quite like enjoying the warm weather in a hammock, which is perfect for reading or taking a quick nap.

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Try an Oversized Ottoman

A large ottoman isn't just great for serving drinks—it can also function as extra seating.

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The More Greenery, the Better

Breathe life into your patio with potted plants, hanging planters, and trailing vines.

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Incorporate Preppy Touches

Embrace your preppy side by opting for gingham cushions to brighten up your space.

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Hang Paper Lanterns

Enjoy an evening outdoors by illuminating your patio with paper lanterns. Layer them with candlelight to make your outdoor oasis really shine.

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Put Up a Shelf

Who said shelves can't be incorporated into outdoor spaces? Consider one to showcase your styling skills or keep entertaining essentials close by.

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Use a Patterned Stool

A graphic stool can be used to rest drinks or double as extra seating in a pinch.

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Purchase an All-Weather Patio Set

Durable furniture (think wicker) will carry you through season after season. Give it a fresh look with graphic cushions and pillows.

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Add a Flower Box to the Fence

If you've had enough of your drab fence, turn it into a conversation starter with a simple flower box.

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Experiment with a Hanging Candle Holder

If you're dining al fresco, make your table arrangement more inviting by dressing up a hanging candle holder with faux greenery.

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Snag a Foldable Umbrella

Celebrate the arrival of warm weather with a foldable umbrella that will instantly make your space feel chicer.

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Go Big With Pillows

Oversized pillows can hide any unforgiving marks or nicks in your furniture. Just keep in mind that you'll likely want them all to be the same shade or pattern to help bring the room together.

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Stick With a Theme

The owners of this gorgeous patio stuck with an Americana theme throughout each piece of decor and furniture, creating a comfortable yet cohesive space.

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Grow Your Porch With Pavers

Lay stone patio tiles next to an existing deck to expand the usable space. Neutral stone creates the perfect canvas for all styles. Leave it bare or cover it partially with an outdoor rug.

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Hang an Instant Green Wall

Floating plants are like a gallery wall for the outdoors! Attach flat-backed planters to the slats using zip ties or small hooks. Include plant, flower, and herb varieties for maximum interest.

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Put a Garden Bench to Work

Think of a gardening table as a multi-use station for all your backyard duties, from repotting plants to serving up food and drinks for guests. Paint it a bright color or add hooks for further customization.

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Transform a Window Into an Outdoor Bar

With a single trip to the hardware store, you can create a clever serving and hangout area close to your kitchen. For the serving ledge, install sturdy brackets (they should be slightly shorter than the depth of the board) to the exterior wall under a window and screw a painted piece of plywood on top. Highlighting the window with with a charming awning will make it appear bigger.

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Paint the Fence Black

Make your outdoor space feel even more like a private enclave by installing a high fence and painting it a chic, muted shade of black, like designer Megan Pflug did here. (This shade is Raccoon Fur by Benjamin Moore.)

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Cozy Up on an XL Outdoor Sofa

This entertaining all-star has a place outside the living room! In outdoor-friendly materials and clever configurations, a multi-piece sectional can turn your patio into a party-ready hangout spot. Layer in an outdoor rug and some colorful pillows and you've got yourself a pretty new spot to lounge day or night.

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Create a Backdoor Perch

Here's an easy way to keep the house clean: Stick a bench on the porch to give kids a place to ditch muddy shoes.

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Relax on Poolside Loungers

No matter the size of your pool, tasseled towels and fringed umbrellas will make you feel like you're at a fancy resort. Don't forget the giant swan float!

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Get Creative With Bricks

Build a fire pit fast and get straight to s'mores. Curved paving stones hold steady without mortar, making this a 30-minute project. Metal patio chairs add a hit of color and a retro vibe.

Caroline Picard Health Editor Caroline is the Health Editor at GoodHousekeeping.com covering nutrition, fitness, wellness, and other lifestyle news.

Monique Valeris Senior Home Editor, Good Housekeeping Monique Valeris is the senior home editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers decorating ideas, home tours, gift guides and more.

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