Summer is prime deck/patio/porch season, so hopefully you’re currently enjoying whatever outdoor space you have. But…have you taken a good look at it lately? If it’s fabulous, congratulations! Pour yourself a glass of sweet tea and toast your decorating skills. On the other hand, if you’re not quite ready for Southern Living photographers to show up, check out these ideas for how to spruce up your space.

1. HAVE A SEAT

Image:  Williams Sonoma Home

Whether you’re dining alfresco or just want to chill, you’re probably going to want to sit down at some point. The more comfortable your seat, the more pleasant your experience will be. Consider style as well as comfort: are you a fan of classic wicker or Adirondack styles or do you prefer a modern or bohemian vibe? Your furniture should complement, not compete with, your overall look.

2. THROW DOWN A RUG

Image:  Overstock.com  

It wasn’t so long ago that the idea of putting a rug outdoors for any reason other than cleaning it was unheard of. Nowadays it’s probably more common than not—and there’s a reason for that. Adding a rug can make your outdoor room feel more like a ‘regular’ room. It defines a space, anchors furniture arrangements, and adds a feeling of coziness. Bonus: if your deck gets a lot of sun, a rug will feel better on bare feet than hot boards.  Tips on how to choose an outdoor rug.

3. ADD A SPLASH OF COLOR

Image:  MidwestLiving

As with your furniture, the colors you choose will depend on your personal style. Do you want a space that’s fun and funky, one that coordinates with your landscape, maybe one that features your favorite team’s colors? Nothing brightens up a space like a pop of color. An easy and economical way to add color is with accessories like candles, pots, plants, pillows and art work.

4. SET THE MOOD (LIGHTING)

Image: Ann Living via the spruce

Nothing sets ambience like lighting. Adding lights will do more than just illuminate your space—though they’re good for that, too, of course. The right lighting can turn your everyday deck into a magical retreat. While string lights are always popular, don’t neglect lanterns, candles, path lighting and other options.

5. FIRE IT UP

Image: WoodlandDirect.com

Humans have been gathering around fires since…well, probably since we discovered fire. While a grill is one thing—and a very good thing, too—there’s something almost hypnotic about watching flames, even when you don’t have a marshmallow handy. An outdoor fireplace is a fantastic gathering space, but so is a fire pit or its smaller, tabletop cousin, the fire bowl. Safety first: be sure to check the manufacturer’s requirements and your city’s code before putting any type of fire pit on your deck.

However you enjoy your outdoor space, hope you have fun out there!