The summer months are upon us, which means spending more time outside. Whether you have a balcony, patio, or deck, you want a space that allows you to relax and enjoy the beautiful weather.
This is something that we understand well at The Pavilion Senior Living! Many of our assisted living apartments feature screened-in porches, allowing residents to experience the benefits of indoor-outdoor living and safely visit with loved ones. Because of this, we thought it would be fun to share a few tips on how to decorate and maximize a small outdoor space – making it more comfortable, enjoyable, and inviting!
Let There Be Light
A quick and inexpensive way to enhance your outdoor patio space is to add lighting. The lights you choose will determine what type of vibe you set for your patio. For example, adding lights to brighten the space up will make it feel bigger, but installing features like string lights or LED candles can create a calming atmosphere and mood.
The lighting you choose is all about preference and function. You want the lights you install to be functional, fit with your décor, and add to your overall design.
TIP: While electric and battery-powered lights are available, many retailers also sell solar-powered lights, saving on energy costs!
Use the Power of Plants
Add life to your outdoor space by adding living (or faux) plants. Not only can live plants add variety and serve as a design element to your outdoor space but including them on your patio can also provide health benefits such as improving the air quality.
The plants you choose should depend on your climate and how much sun or shade your outdoor space gets, but there are endless varieties to choose from. Of course, if you don’t have a green thumb, you can always opt for faux plants to get the same visual effects.
Further spice up your space by using a variety of pots and planters for the greenery you choose. This is an easy way to include design elements that tie your patio together. Additionally, if you are short of square footage, go vertical! By doing so, you are drawing the eye upward and can make the space feel bigger.
TIP: If choosing live plants, be mindful of the ones you select, as some can require more care and attention. If you are looking for the aesthetic of plants with minimal effort, fake plants may be a better option.
Include a Statement Rug
Adding an area rug to your patio or outdoor space is another quick way to pull the design of the space together. It makes the design feel cohesive and purposeful while creating a homey and inviting atmosphere.
TIP: Since this is an outdoor space, make sure the rug you choose is made out of a material that is durable and easy to clean.
Select Low-Profile Furniture
Large, bulky furniture can take up a lot of space and make your patio feel smaller than it actually is. Another tip on how to decorate and maximize a small outdoor space is by choosing low-profile furniture, like a bistro set, to make your space appear large and easier to navigate.
Add Throw Pillows
Adding throw pillows can make your space feel cozier and is a simple way to add an extra touch of design. Furthermore, throw pillows add another layer of comfort when spending time relaxing on your patio.
TIP: Select throw pillows with removable covers that are washable and can easily be swapped to refresh and renew your space over time!
Design for the Way You Live
If you don’t like the space or it doesn’t function for your lifestyle, you probably won’t use it. So decorate your patio in a way that works for you and how you want to use it! For example, if you want it to be an entertaining space, you will need more seating than if it’s just a space for you to unwind.
Spicing up your patio space does not need to cost a ton of money or take up a lot of time. Simple touches can go a long way in maximizing your space.
To learn more about how residents benefit from The Pavilion Senior Living lifestyle, visit our website or contact a member of our team.
