Emily Flores
Your patio has potential—lots of it. Right now, it might feel more like an afterthought than a true extension of your home. The good news is that a few simple additions can change everything and make it a comfortable retreat you’ll never want to leave. If you’re ready for an upgrade, start with these ten things.
Plush Seating
How lovely would it feel to sink into a deep, cushioned seat—the kind that makes you never want to get up? So, swap the stiff chairs for an outdoor sectional or oversized lounger. It’s also a good idea to consider a weather-resistant daybed.
An Outdoor Rug
A bare patio feels cold and unfinished. That’s where an outdoor rug comes in. It defines the space and makes it feel warm. Everything looks instantly pulled together. You can’t go wrong with a soft, durable rug that can handle the elements while still giving you that indoor-level comfort underfoot.
Soft Lighting
You want a cozy atmosphere, and a single harsh bulb won’t create that. Thankfully, layered lighting will. String lights overhead, then attach lanterns into corners or add candles on tables to give your patio an inviting glow. When the sun sets, these little details will turn your space into an outdoor sanctuary.
A Coffee Table
A patio is incomplete without a coffee table, where memories are made over drinks and conversation. The centerpiece brings style and functionality to the area. Just ensure it is sturdy and weather-resistant (stone or metal are great options besides wood) and complements your outdoor aesthetic.
Throw Pillows And Blankets
A sofa without pillows? Unthinkable. The same applies outside. Toss a few outdoor-friendly throw pillows onto your seating and include a cozy blanket for those cooler evenings. The best part is that you can play around with colors and patterns to refresh your patio’s look. Small details, big impact!
A Fire Pit
Chilly nights become cozy gatherings when there’s a fire pit at the center of your patio. Think about the warmth on your face, the flicker of flames, the soft crackle of burning wood. You can’t go wrong with a fire pit, whether it’s a gas-powered model or the wood-burning kind.
A Ceiling Fan
Summer heat can turn your patio into an oven. So, the solution is a ceiling fan. It keeps the air moving and creates a cooling effect. Plus, it helps keep bugs at bay. There are many stylish designs available, so it can be both a useful upgrade and a statement piece.
Side Tables
Where do you keep your things while you lounge outside? If you don’t have a side table, the answer is probably in your pocket, on the coffee table, or worse—on the ground. A couple of stylish, weatherproof side tables solve that problem and bring a decorative touch.
A Privacy Screen
Your patio should feel like a retreat, not a stage for the neighborhood to watch. To create an enclosed vibe, get a privacy screen. The options for this include outdoor curtains, wooden panels, and more. Besides the privacy they offer, the right design gives the space’s beauty a bump.
Built-In Speakers
A little music improves every space. So, set the mood with built-in outdoor speakers. Don’t always depend on your bluetooth speaker of phone. When alone, you can relax there with soft jazz or enjoy a peaceful morning with nature sounds. If you’re hosting a party with many guests, your patio speakers will fill the area with more energy.