How to Decorate – Ballard Designs Blog
I love creating outdoor rooms almost as much as indoor spaces — sometimes even more. Putting together an outdoor room doesn’t have to be costly. With a little creativity you can use items you already own to create a comfortable, stylish space that feels like an extension of your home.
The same basic elements of an indoor room can be used to make outdoor living comfortable and attractive:
rugs
furniture
pillows
artwork
mirrors
stools
birdhouses
lanterns
candlesticks
wreaths
plants
lighting
accessories
In many cases you can shop right inside your house for items that work beautifully outdoors.
Don’t be afraid to bring regular furniture and accessories outside when the weather allows. You don’t always need to buy expensive patio pieces — indoor furniture can work well on a covered porch, during a mild summer, or for a weekend gathering. When the weather changes, simply bring items back inside. This approach saves money and gives your outdoor room a personal, lived-in feel.
Mix and match pieces from different rooms, hunt at yard sales, or repurpose treasured items for your outdoor space. For cushions and pillows, consider outdoor fabrics or indoor/outdoor rugs. Thrifty alternatives like patterned plastic tablecloths or stylish shower curtains can serve as weather-resistant covers and add color without a big investment.
Note: if you leave a beloved sofa out in a downpour, it may get damaged — be mindful of weather and storage.
What could you bring outside to enjoy this summer?
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Take a tour of a refreshed spring outdoor oasis for inspiration on creating your own side patio makeover.