Chic Outdoor Spaces: 8 Tweaks Designers Swear By

Chic outdoor spaces? Create yours too, with the minimum effort 

The warm season is here, finally! So spending more time outdoors is basically mandatory, especially if you have a backyard. A breath of fresh air, a glass of your favorite wine, and a comfy chair to relax on—the definition of a perfect summer day.

Now, the thing is that not many folks have the necessary money to buy furniture to transform their porches or backyards into chic outdoor spaces. But what if we tell you this is possible without spending an arm and a leg on durable and good-looking furniture?

Because we’re always here to help our readers with less costly tips and tricks, today we will give you some ideas on how to tweak your living space with minimum effort and little money. All these tips are designer-approved, so you know!

Invest in a pair of string lights (or some candles)

When it comes to transforming backyards into chic outdoor spaces, one of the things you can do is add a bit more light to the area with some string lights. Compared to a standard lantern or sconce, this alternative is not only more affordable but also produces a more pleasant glow than the other type of patio lightning. These lights are an excellent option to consider, even if your area is uncovered. They may be placed around corners or vertical walls.

You don’t have anywhere to put these light strings, or are they too much for your budget? Don’t worry! Go for candles! They work wonders at transforming bland patios into chic outdoor spaces for people who don’t have money to spend on expensive lighting.

Tiny ones are perfect for the table, while larger ones can be placed on the ground. Candles can transform your outdoor space into a more intimate one. Pair the candles with some nice and cozy decorative pillows, and voila! You just transformed your space into something cozy, cute, and, most importantly, without splurging a lot on it!

Looking for some candles to fit into your garden? Check out these two packs of scented candles made of natural soy wax that are long-lasting and super affordable price-wise. Just $6.96 on Amazon! 

Clean the outdoor space

To put it plainly, you’d be surprised at what a little “sweat” can do to your outside area. A spotlessly clean deck or patio will give your outdoor space a second breath of life, making a neglected area feel brand-new and very good—even if you decide to do nothing more with it. For those who want to go above and beyond with their summer cleaning, designers advise applying mildew remover to upholstery and pillows.

Create a focal point for your outdoor space

Having a main point of interest is essential, whether you have a small or a large outdoor space. A huge plant or a fire pit might serve as a focal point, or you can create a distinctive seating area with eye-catching statement furniture.
Your outdoor living area may get individuality and character from a focal point, which also establishes harmony and balance.

Adopt more plants

While you’ll probably have a lot of shrubs, grass, and some trees in your garden, adding more plants won’t hurt. You won’t believe how happy and lively your outdoor space will look with a tad bit more greenery in it.

Some plants can be quite expensive, but you don’t need to buy a bamboo tree to make a difference. Go for tiny succulents or cacti that you can place on the table next to your candles. Wanna be even more frugal? You can also move some of your indoor plants outside in the sunlight, especially if they enjoy more sun during the day.

Install some shade

Having a garden just for you to get tanned anytime you want can be nice and all, but when the summer heat becomes unbearable, you will need a bit of shade. For efficient sun protection, shade sails can be ordered in any size and installed like mesh sunscreens. They come in an assortment of hues and forms. All you need to do is install them straight on a post, fence, or home.

These sun shades can range in price from $30 to $50 or more; however, this depends solely on the retailer.

DIY with garage sale items

Repurpose some old wooden pallets to create a lovely sofa or a planter for your yard. If you have any extra unused wood, it’s quite simple and reasonably priced. In addition, you may also benefit from garage sales. You won’t believe how many things you can find there. You know what they say: one man’s trash is another man’s treasure!

Depending on your comfort level with the concept, upcycling may even present an opportunity for you to get a bit artistic with your projects. You may buy stylish furniture on a tight budget and have the satisfaction of knowing that every element of your room has a little bit of personalization by investing in some readily refurbished furniture and décor.

DIY backyard accents

Make your accessories for an easy and stylish garden design. Use quick-mix concrete to cast stepping stones to improve the area in your garden. Many backyard ideas work especially well in a cottage- or country-style garden, like this set of stepping stones with a leaf motif.

Move your indoor furniture outside

Do you have any nice furniture that makes your indoor space look a bit crowded? Let them breathe some fresh air by putting them on your patio. It will be cost-effective because you won’t invest in new furniture; you will make the space bloom with what you already have.

If you want to make this move, just be mindful of the material of the furniture. For example, a leather chair won’t do any good in scorching heat. Choose furniture composed of rattan, wicker, aluminum, or sturdy wood.

Bottom line:

Take it easy! No matter how eager you are to transform your outdoor space into a heavenly oasis, don’t rush things, and more importantly, don’t overwhelm yourself by thinking it will be a mess in the end. Before starting to tweak things around, make a plan. Think about how much maintenance you are willing to do, because if you have a lot of furniture, then it will be harder to clean the space.

Whatever you do, don’t invest a lot in cushions or accessories. Think about materials that can stand up, no matter the weather conditions. You can create a great outdoor space in which you can relax and unwind that matches your tastes and personality without worrying too much about it, or worse, spending an arm and a leg to redecorate it.

How does your outdoor space look? Remember, you can make these changes in a small space or on a balcony as well. Let your imagination run free!

We hope this article was helpful and that you found at least one method to improve the look of your outdoor space. Now go outside, make the necessary changes, and enjoy the weather while relaxing on your favorite chair!

You may also be interested in reading about 9 Creative Home Renovation Ideas on a Small Budget.