Tag Archives: patio
Porch and Patio Prep
Are you planning a big patio or deck renovation? Or just looking to spruce things up a bit? We all want the outside of our home to be as relaxing and welcoming as the inside but it can seem like an overwhelming task. Planning and preparation are key, and there are a few things you can start doing now so that when the summer hits you can spend every moment enjoying the outdoors.
Marine Sconce from Pottery Barn
Spring Clean
If you’ve already started spring cleaning indoors take your bucket and mop outside as well and wash down all surfaces. Remember the windows and light fixtures, which tend to collect a lot of winter dirt and grime. It’s not the most exciting way to spend an afternoon, but you’ll probably thank yourself for getting it done ahead of time.
Paint it Bright
The weather may be too unpredictable to tackle any major outdoor painting projects just yet, but one warm afternoon should be enough time to paint yourself a cheerful front door. Yellow doors are my favourite, and I love the unexpected spot they’ve chosen for the house number on this home.
Modern Patio Garden via Dwell
Thinking Ahead to Spring Gardening
Depending where you live you may still have a few weeks before you can begin doing any serious gardening, but now is a great time to start thinking ahead to where you want plants and flowers to go, and maybe washing out planters or picking up new ones to replace the ones that haven’t survived the winter. I’ve been playing around with this nifty garden planner from bhg.com; it’s a helpful tool for planning visually what you want your landscaping and patio to look like.
Colourful DIY Wooden Slat Door Mat via Curbly
Welcome All
A new doormat is an instant and affordable way to accessorize your front door. I am totally going to attempt this DIY mat featured on Curbly; it’s colourful, modern and practical. Just the right thing to welcome everyone into your home.
Design a Layout
Like plants, the overall look of your patio, from seating to accessories, is best considered ahead of time. There is nothing worse then completing a big outdoor reno or makeover just when fall rolls along and you have to wait a whole year in order to use it again. A helpful question to ask when planning out a patio or porch is what will the space be used for (entertaining, a play space for kiddos, gardening, relaxing with a book etc.) The answer will help determine what needs to be done and what furnishings and accessories need to be purchased. For a small deck or porch I am loving this built-in bench idea.
It turns out my dream patio already exists and it is at Amy Butler’s house. Beautiful textiles, lush plants, and to top it all off, the perfect swing. I’ll have to ask if I can move in.
Who is ready to get outside? Hurry up spring!
Outdoor Furniture Guide
Loopita Lounger by Victor Aleman via one weekof design
Planning a patio can be full of tough decisions, and one of the most difficult choices to make is what furniture to purchase. To make this a little easier on you we here at The Design Tree thought we would put together a little Outdoor Furniture Guide to get you on your way.
For starters, how stunning is this circular lounger by Victor Aleman? Unique pieces like this can turn an ordinary backyard or deck into a resort-like retreat. The right furniture can truly be transformative, so don’t be afraid to try out unconventional styles.
Designing the Outdoor Room
The first step in choosing the right outdoor furniture is to decide if you want your patio or deck to be an extension of the inside of your home,or its’ own stand-alone space. Either way, planning an outdoor seating area should follow the same conventions as an indoor seating arrangement; think about how best to place seating so as to encourage conversation. Details like accent pillows and throws can be a nice touch and many of these items come in weather safe options. Don’t forget to have a few surfaces nearby for setting down drinks and snacks.
fillingham via Design Sponge
Craftsmanship is Key
Not only is this chair by etsy seller fillingham absolutely beautiful, you can also see the expert craftsmanship that goes into creating a piece of furniture like this. Opting for handmade furniture isn’t always an option for everyone due to cost, but make sure that whatever you choose to purchase is well made and will stand up to many seasons of use.
Spartan Daybed from Restoration Hardware
Get Comfortable
Style is one thing, but you also want to enjoy using it; the last thing you want is to buy a chair or sofa that may look nice but that no one ever sits in. The backyard or patio is a place for relaxation and I can’t think of a better place for doing that than this daybed from Restoration Hardware. It has the perfect amount of shade, comfy cushions and is roomy enough for spreading out.
kenkoon via designboom
Know Your Materials
When you buy any piece of furniture you want it to last, and the same is true of furniture you buy for your patio. There are so many options for outdoor furniture when it comes to materials including teak, stainless steel, wicker and many more. Some surfaces and finishes will be more resistant to the elements than others, and some will require special treatment so make sure to do your research. There are also numerous eco-friendly possibilities like poly-woods that are made out of recycled materials.
Alessandra Baldereschi via moco loco
Be Playful
There’s no need to play it safe when choosing outdoor furnishings. Fun details and bright colours are way more lively than safe tans and whites, so why not pick a few unexpected items to spruce things up a little. This set from Alessandra Baldereschi is brilliant, she has created the outlines of plush upholstered furniture out of wire and the result is equal parts artistic, clever and fun.
That’s it for our furniture guide. Hope you’ve found a few helpful tips to make your patio planning easier.
