This giveaway post is sponsored by Arhaus
Ialways knew this small patio could become our favorite outdoor spot for morning coffee or an evening drink. As I mentioned in an earlier update, the project has faced drama, delays and unexpected setbacks over the past two and a half years.
This summer marks a fresh start. In just a few weeks we will finally have a fully finished patio, complete with a gate and railings—safety was a primary reason we began this project. I’m so excited to style the space for summer. Be sure to enter the Arhaus giveaway at the end of this post for a chance to win a $500 gift card to start your own outdoor refresh.
We spent a lot of time using the patio last summer and loved it, even with some important pieces still missing. There will always be more to do, but I’m relieved we’ll soon have a safe, finished area where we can host friends and family and enjoy outdoor gatherings.
lumbar pillow (out of stock but click for others)
With a new season approaching, I’m thinking about essentials for the patio: flexible seating, useful storage and convenient surfaces for food and drinks. One addition I’m thrilled about is this storage bench from Arhaus. It instantly changed the conversation area when I added it.
The bench meets everything I want in outdoor furniture. Arhaus designers work with skilled artisans around the world to create distinctive, well-made pieces that can last for years. They use sustainable materials and avoid wood from endangered rainforests. This bench will be versatile for many uses, so I expect it to be a long-term favorite.
I’ve found this bench doubles as a coffee table when paired with a tray for cups and plates, and the cushion can be added to expand seating whenever we need it. It can be pulled up to a dining table or placed against a wall as an accent bench.
It’s weather resistant and includes hidden storage—perfect for stashing throw pillows or other items. I can even picture it inside at the end of a bed when seasons change.
If you’ve followed our remodel, you’ll know the patio sits right outside the kitchen. It connects the front yard, backyard and kitchen, and both dogs and people come and go through the Dutch door all day. Because the patio is visible from the kitchen, I want it to feel welcoming and cohesive with the rest of the house.
We have many ideas for the space this summer. A new garden stool inspired me to pull up a couple of chairs, and I already love the extra comfy spot for reading or chatting.
Click for outdoor pillows
I’m also drawn to blue and white Sunbrella pillows here—the colors coordinate nicely with the kitchen and create a fresh, classic look.
I still plan to add outdoor rugs, potted plants for greenery and seasonal color, and perhaps a few more pieces in the months ahead. Letting the space evolve over time is part of the fun.
Below is my vision board showing design elements for this area, including pieces I selected from Arhaus along with a few other favorites. Creating a mood board helps visualize the overall direction even if the room comes together gradually.
Sources Above: Arhaus
I’m so relieved the most difficult phase of this project is behind us. Now I can look forward to the enjoyable part: relaxing and making the patio a place we use every day.
GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED
To enter to win a $500 gift card from Arhaus, visit Arhaus and then leave a comment on this post naming one item you’d love to have. Arhaus employees and their family members are not eligible.