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Growing up, having a patio wasn’t a thought. Our backyard had grass and dirt. There was a well connected to the septic tank. A few steps led from the back door. There was no cozy sitting area, no fire pit, and certainly no cute throw pillows adding a pop of color.
When my husband and I built our home, we had a clear vision. We wanted a functional patio space. It would be a place to relax, unwind, and create family memories.
In our first home, we had a patio, but it was more of an afterthought. We had plans—big plans. A pergola, comfy furniture, a mounted TV… you name it. But those plans never made it past the brainstorming phase. Honestly, I think it was because we could barely see the patio from one window in the living room. Out of sight, out of mind, right?
Fast forward to our current home.
When we moved in, we made it a goal to create an inviting outdoor space. It took us three years (yes, THREE — much like our landscaping) to get it together. But we finally have a patio we love. If you’re looking to update your outdoor space, here are five simple ways to do it—without breaking the bank!
1. Keep It Clean & Tidy
Our patio is a family (and pet) favorite, which means keeping it clean is a full-time job. Our two English Mastiffs love lounging outside, but when it rains? Oh, they take full advantage, leaving muddy paw prints everywhere. We got tired of constantly mopping up after them. So, we installed a small garden fence. This keeps them off the patio after wet weather. A quick and easy fix that made a difference!
Tip: Invest in a good outdoor broom and a pressure washer. A clean patio instantly feels more inviting!
2. Upgrade Your Seating
Patio furniture can make or break your outdoor vibe. We wanted something unique, so my husband’s friend (who builds furniture) made us custom patio chairs. They were perfect—but unstained. Choosing the right stain turned into a mini-marriage debate (light vs. dark), but we compromised with a Ready Seal exterior wood stain in natural cedar. A win-win!
If custom-built isn’t in the cards, look for comfortable and durable seating. Adirondack chairs, egg swings, or even a cozy outdoor couch can transform your space.
3. Add Plush, Weatherproof Cushions
Seating is one thing, but if you want to make your patio feel cozy, you need cushions! I originally thought I’d DIY them (thanks to my daughter’s sewing skills). However, after realizing the cost of foam and fabric, I had to pivot. We finally found affordable, thick outdoor cushions at At Home—just the right size and level of comfort.
Lesson learned: When buying patio cushions, make sure they’re labeled for outdoor use. Regular indoor cushions will soak up moisture like a sponge!
4. Bring the Heat with a Fire Pit
My husband was set on having a fire pit. He wanted to roast marshmallows, stay warm on chilly nights, and add a cozy ambiance to our space. We landed on the Master Forge Rancher 47.24-in W Black Steel Wood-Burning Fire Pit from Lowe’s, and let me tell you—it’s a game-changer.
If you’re adding a fire pit, remember:
- Make sure it’s safe for your patio material.
- Consider a propane version if wood-burning makes you nervous.
- Grab a weatherproof cover to protect it when not in use.
5. Roll Out a Rug for Instant Coziness
A rug ties everything together! I wanted a 9×12 outdoor rug that fit perfectly under our seating area. Finding the right one was harder than expected. After visiting multiple stores (and almost giving up), I found the perfect rug at a local discount shop. It was the last one left—meant to be! My daughter and I measured the patio space. We determined the size. We agreed that a 9 x 12 outdoor area rug would suit it perfectly.
When choosing an outdoor rug:
- Go for durable, weather-resistant materials.
- Pick a color that complements your furniture and cushions.
- Make sure it’s easy to clean and maintain.
Bringing It All Together
Once we had everything—chairs, cushions, fire pit, and rug—it was time to put it all together. I intended to document the entire process. However, excitement took over. Before I knew it, my sons and I were arranging everything. The final reveal? A warm, inviting patio perfect for family nights, morning coffee, and everything in between.
To see how we fully transformed the space…take a look at this Instagram reel. You can also check this Instagram post for the final reveal.
Now that the patio is finished, it’s time for the next home project.
Let me know in the comments! And if you’ve updated your patio recently, I’d love to hear about it—drop your favorite patio must-haves below!
