Now that the sun is setting later and the ideal weather is settling in, it's the perfect time for open-air cocktail parties and lazy afternoons. 

But first, and being spring, you likely need to do a patio makeover to create that backyard oasis.

Not sure where to start with your patio makeover? I hear you.

Check out this handy guide, which has everything you need to know to get your outdoor space in shape in no time.

Start Your Patio Makeover with a Deep Clean

Give your deck or patio a good clean. Sweep up leaves, cobwebs, and debris with a broom that has outdoor-grade bristles, then wash away the winter with your hose.

Note: Don’t power wash stained wood — only concrete, brick and stone. (No power washer? Most big-box hardware stores allow you to rent them for the day.)

Refresh Your Outdoor Furniture

Instead of investing in new pieces, try restoring them. Hearty woods like teak and acacia are meant to survive harsh weather; however, if the woods start to turn gray and muted, give them a facelift with a fresh coat of teak cleaner.

If the woods start to turn gray and muted, give them a facelift with a fresh coat of teak cleaner.

Wash your table with soap and water, sand the gray spots and apply two coats of cleaner. Scrub pieces made of plastic or composite materials, such as Polywood and Trex, with liquid dish soap and water.

Add Color to Enhance Your Patio Makeover

Most outdoor furniture pieces come in wood styles and neutral colors, which makes for a palette that blends in well with the great outdoors.

Layering in a few pillows in bright colors and fun patterns will give your patio a fresh look.

Layering in a few pillows in bright colors and fun patterns will give your patio a fresh look.

Brighten Your Space with Rugs in Your Patio Makeover

Rugs are a fun and easy way to brighten your outdoor living space.

Rugs are a fun and easy way to brighten your outdoor living space. If you spot a stain, vacuum up the dirt and dust, then give the rug a good wash with a hose.

Rugs are an easy way to brighten your outdoor living space.

These days, stylish designs that will also hold up to outdoor living should be pretty easy to find.

Prep the Grill

Use a stiff wire brush to clean your grill’s grates before inviting the neighbors over for a backyard feast.

Use a stiff wire brush to clean your grill’s grates before inviting the neighbors over for a backyard feast.

If you’re ready for an outdoor kitchen upgrade, let me know and I can steer you in the right direction for your outdoor cooking inspiration.

Add a Few Side Tables for Spring Sips

Freshly squeezed cocktails and chilled glasses of Sauvignon Blanc deserve to rest on a chic side table.

Freshly squeezed cocktails and chilled glasses of Sauvignon Blanc deserve to rest on a chic side table.

Consider a ceramic stool for easy maintenance and cleanup. The right color or pattern will add some pop to your patio makeover.

Consider a ceramic stool for easy maintenance and cleanup for your patio makeover.

Create Ambiance with Lighting in Your Patio Makeover

Create ambiance for your al fresco dinners with twinkling lights. Wrap them around trees, line them along your pergola roof, or string them from tree to tree for an instant mood lifter.

Create ambiance for your al fresco dinners with twinkling lights.

Choose bistro lights with bigger bulbs for more impact.

Hanging string lights from tree to tree is an instant mood lifter for any outdoor space.

Hanging string lights from tree to tree is an instant mood lifter for any outdoor space.

Mulch and Refill Pots for a Fresh Patio Makeover Look

Late spring is the best time to mulch your planters, pots, and containers. Add a fresh layer to discourage weeds and keep your plants nicely hydrated.

Late spring is the best time to mulch your planters, pots, and containers.

Depending on where you live, flowers like pansies, marigolds, and petunias add beautiful seasonal color, while plants like cacti and succulents add texture and greenery.

Consider hanging baskets filled with hearty begonias to add dimension.

Create Seating Vignettes

Keep the conversation flowing with cozy arrangements. Arrange Adirondack loungers around a fire pit to encourage a warm chat, or take your patio to new heights by adding a whimsical hanging chair or hammock.

Take your patio to new heights by adding a whimsical hanging chair or hammock.

Throw Some Shade

Shaded spots are necessary for a respite from the Florida sun. If your deck or patio isn’t covered, add a stylish umbrella to the mix. From freestanding styles to patio tables with umbrellas, there are plenty of options.

If your deck or patio isn’t covered, add a stylish umbrella to the mix.

Take it one step further and add a gazebo to your backyard’s scheme. Talk to me first, I'll steer you in the right direction for an incredible patio makeover!

For some beautiful shade, add a gazebo to your backyard’s scheme.

If you're considering sprucing up your outdoor patio or deck for spring – and year-round enjoyment – talk to me! Especially if you're considering an upgrade. Let me come by and see the areas you're thinking of enhancing, and I guarantee I'll have some ideas for you that will make your outdoor spaces delightful! 

These ideas are just the beginning of possibilities – let's talk about it! Message me here, right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link, or you can email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com You can call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.


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