This post is in partnership with Wayfair
Today I’m sharing our small deck makeover for summer. It turned out so cute—we absolutely love it!
You may recall that I mentioned this deck as one of my upcoming projects this spring.
A week or so ago my husband started painting the front deck railings, which inspired me to order a few pieces of outdoor furniture. And now—here it is: the deck makeover.
All the pieces arrived faster than expected, which was great because the weather has been perfect.
Here are the main pieces I used to create this small deck makeover plus a few design tips and unexpected ideas!
1. Rug
2. Table and Chairs
3. Plant Stands
Outdoor wicker plant stands (unexpected features and ways to use them)
One of my favorite pieces are these outdoor wicker plant stands. They look like natural wicker but are durable enough for outdoor use. They come in multiple colors and are surprisingly versatile—the design is very clever. I already want to order more.
Here are a few things to know and several unexpected ways to use these plant stands:
1. The planter basket can be removed from the stand and used on its own.
2. The basket works on a table, a windowsill, or the ground—perfect for plants or for storing other items.
3. Place the basket on the lower level and flip the lower piece to the top to create a small surface—this is one of my favorite options.
4. The top piece can be used separately as a tray.
5. Arrange two or more stands to define an outdoor seating area or create a sense of privacy. Add plants for color, texture, and height.
This outdoor wicker plant stand would also be very cute inside.
6. Use it as an indoor planter for real or faux plants.
7. Use it for indoor storage or as a small furniture piece—place it at the end of a bed, next to a chair, under a window, in a bathroom, entryway, nursery, mudroom, or hallway.
I bought two and already see many other places they would work beautifully around the house.
A boldly patterned rug
I wanted a rug that would cover the area under the table and chairs to make the space feel grounded and inviting. The deck is small, so the rug fills the area nicely. Don’t be afraid to choose a bold pattern in a compact outdoor space—the graphic pattern feels fresh and whimsical and helps draw you into the seating area without competing with the furniture or the view.
The rug is available in several color options, so you can pick one that complements your style.
A charming cafe table + two chairs
Although the space is small, I wanted a table large enough for a centerpiece, two place settings, and maybe a book or two. This cafe set is the right scale and will be useful in many situations.
I love the simple, stylish shape of the white table and chairs. They feel classic yet fresh, and they come as a set or with the option to buy the table separately. The light design contrasts nicely with the bold rug, while brown accents bring warmth and tie back to the wood floors inside. The set is light enough to move easily but substantial enough not to blow around.
The set is offered in another color option as well.
Always create a destination
I love this little deck. It was one of the features that made me certain this was the right house for us.
Years ago I dreamed about a bedroom with French doors leading to a private outdoor sitting area—long before we found this home. It’s still surprising and delightful that the dream became reality.
This deck is not just something to look at—it’s a destination.
When I design a space I think about where I want to go and recreate that feeling at home. Make a spot you want to walk out to so it becomes a daily destination you enjoy without leaving the house.
This deck is perfect for summer and fall bird watching, morning coffee, reading, sunrises and sunsets, enjoying plants, or a quiet dinner for two.
We often keep the doors to this deck open all day, so having an inviting, well-designed outdoor destination brings joy from morning until night.
