This giveaway post is sponsored by Arhaus
Ialways suspected this small patio could become our favorite outdoor nook for morning coffee or an evening glass of wine. As I shared in my previous post, the last two and a half years brought delays, complications and a few unexpected setbacks while we worked to finish this spot.
Now, this summer marks a fresh start. In just a few weeks we’ll have a fully finished patio, complete with railings and a gate—safety was a major reason we began this project. I can’t wait to set up the space for the season. Be sure to enter the Arhaus giveaway at the bottom of this post for a chance to win a $500 gift card to help jumpstart your outdoor refresh.
We actually spent a lot of time out here last summer and loved it, despite some unfinished touches. There will always be more to do, but having a safe, welcoming space to host friends and family is the main goal—and it’s finally within reach.
With the new season approaching, I’m planning the essentials for outdoor entertaining: flexible seating, smart storage and convenient surfaces for food and drinks. One piece that already transformed the conversation area is a storage bench from Arhaus. It instantly changed how the space feels and functions.
The bench checks every box for outdoor furniture: durable construction, weather resistance and useful storage. Arhaus works with artisans worldwide to create distinct, high-quality pieces, often using sustainable materials and avoiding wood from endangered rainforests. This bench will serve multiple purposes for years to come.
I’ve found this bench doubles as a coffee table—add a tray for cups and snacks—or it becomes extra seating when we add the cushion. It can be pulled up to a dining table or placed against a wall as an accent bench. Its versatility makes it a smart investment for a busy outdoor area.
Because it’s weather resistant and includes storage, the bench is perfect for stashing throw pillows or outdoor accessories. I can also picture it inside at the end of a bed when seasons change—it’s that adaptable.
The patio sits just outside our kitchen and connects the front yard, backyard and the house interior. With people—and dogs—coming in and out through the Dutch door all day, I want the space to feel inviting from inside as well as outside.
There are so many directions this space can take this summer. A new garden stool inspired me to pull up a pair of chairs and try a little seating vignette. It’s already become a cozy spot to read and chat.
Click for outdoor pillows
I’m also loving blue and white Sunbrella pillows for this area—their colors play nicely with our kitchen palette and add a fresh, coastal touch.
Plans for the coming months include new outdoor rugs, potted plants for greenery and seasonal color, and possibly a few more furniture pieces. Letting the space evolve over time is part of the fun.
Below is my current vision for the patio design elements, featuring several Arhaus pieces and a few other finds I’m considering. A mood board helps visualize the direction even if the space comes together gradually.
Sources Above: Arhaus
I’m so relieved that the hardest part of this renovation is behind us. Now comes the enjoyable phase: arranging, relaxing and making the patio a place we use every day.
GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED
To enter the Arhaus $500 gift card giveaway, visit Arhaus and then leave a comment on this post telling us one item you’d love to add to your outdoor space. Arhaus employees and their family members are not eligible to enter.