{Sunset Magazine}
I don’t know about you, but we don’t get to go on many tropical vacations. That doesn’t mean we can’t bring a little Bali to our backyard. With a few thoughtful touches you can create your own island escape and enjoy that relaxed, tropical feeling every day this summer.
Life is really about enjoying the everyday moments, not just waiting for rare, expensive getaways. For a fraction of the cost of a real trip, you can transform your patio with the sights, sounds and scents of a tropical paradise.
I love Remodeling Guy’s backyard.
His Tiki bar and yard make it easy to feel like you’re on vacation.
How can you create your own tropical backyard paradise?
Reuse wicker and rattan pieces from garage sales, thrift stores or your attic. Chairs, side tables and small coffee tables can be refreshed with a coat of spray paint to give them new life.
Shop for a few statement accessories at stores that carry island-inspired decor. A handful of well-chosen items goes a long way toward setting the mood.
Add colorful, island-themed pillows to establish a cohesive color palette and make seating more inviting.
Introduce plants like bamboo, ferns and other tropical foliage to bring greenery and a lush feeling to the space.
Use candles, lanterns and tiki torches to create warm, welcoming evening lighting.
Update accessories with bright spray paint to tie older pieces into your tropical scheme.
Layer in textured materials such as bamboo, rattan, wicker, seagrass rugs and woven placemats or baskets for natural warmth and depth.
Create a small bar or drink station to make entertaining easy and to reinforce the vacation vibe.
Add market umbrellas for shade and to complete the resort-style look.
Set out colorful beach towels for a casual, carefree touch.
Choose scented sunscreens or candles with coconut or pina colada notes to enhance the sensory experience.
Play island music from a stereo or smartphone, mix a fruity drink—umbrella optional—and relax. Small details add up to a convincing backyard escape.
Enjoy your little slice of paradise!
Top photo: Sunset magazine
For more photos of Remodeling Guy’s backyard and Tiki bar, look for his original post.