Sometimes, we spend so much time focusing on interior design that we forget about the outdoor spaces of our homes. Many people with patios neglect that space, which means they’re missing out on beautiful outdoor retreats. If your patio decor is lacking, there are countless ways to add some flare to it.

Pillows and rugs

Get floor pillows that you and your guests can use to sit on the ground for more relaxed occasions. You can also cover the ground with an outdoor rug that will bring a little warmth into the space.

Creative seating

Hang hammocks if you want to use your patio for a relaxing, quiet place to think or read. If you want to make your patio extra comfortable, throw in a futon or daybed where you can lay and rest.

Plants

Add a few potted plants to bring nature into this indoor-outdoor space. They’ll brighten up the area nicely. Just make sure that the layout of the patio allows your plants or flowers to get enough sunlight.

Food area

If you like to eat outdoors, add a small table and a few chairs to your patio space. During the warmer months, you can head outside and enjoy dinner with a sunset view. If you’re feeling fancy, consider purchasing a bar cart, which will help you bring cocktails from the kitchen to the patio seamlessly. You can even install a tabletop fire pit if you’re interested in roasting marshmallows on the patio.

Curtains and partitions

To add an element of privacy, hang a curtain or set up a partition to separate your patio space from the outdoors. You can even repaint old shutters from your home and use them as a barrier between your patio and the rest of your yard. If you’d still like to get natural sunlight, choose a light colored curtain or only set up a partition on one side of the patio for partial privacy.

Blend design styles

Make your patio have a natural transition between your home and backyard. Include furniture that is a mix of both indoors and outdoors, such as wicker chairs with decorative pillows.

Lighting

Incorporate lighting so that you can use your patio at night. Whether it’s a large light or a number of twinkly string lights, adequate lighting will allow you to get the most use out of your space.

Your patio has more potential than you might’ve realized. Think about how you’d like to use your space, and you’ll be surprised by how easy it is to transform this often overlooked part of the home.