I style a lot of outdoor spaces—every. single. summer. With four summer rentals plus our home guarantees, I am a regular at my local nurseries this time of year! Adding the pretty details can mean the difference between a meh outdoor space and Summer Porch Bliss. Today, I thought I’d share some of my favorite styling tips to refresh your outdoor spaces.
A Welcoming Front Door
Late Spring is the perfect time to paint your front door! Choose a vibrant paint color that freshens the porch and adds instant curb appeal. I am partial to blues, but my neighbor recently painted her front door pink, and I think it’s so pretty! Hmm, maybe next time! 🙂
I painted the front door SW Indigo Blue at the Little Green Cottage. I love how the blue pops against the green.
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While we are at the front door- Let’s talk door mats.
First thing I must admit?? I love a clever doormat. It can add a pop of color or bring a smile to your guests before they even step inside. I like to think that my guests get a preview of what they will find inside as they walk up to the house.
This is one of my favorite doormats, as I have a very large, hairy dog.
Layering your doormat with a small outdoor rug is an excellent way to get more porch coverage.
This doormat is a hit with my Airbnb guests. And this one is on the patio at our Lake House.
Summer Porch Decor
Furniture for your outdoor spaces
Whether you are working with smaller spaces or are lucky enough to have a grand outdoor space, my first consideration is to make my outdoor spaces feel cozy. Outdoor furniture plays a big role here; the most essential step is to make it comfortable!
Side tables and a coffee table are the perfect place to set your morning coffee or evening wine, so I highly recommend them. Ottomans or poufs where you can put your feet up help add comfort to your seating area.
To be honest, I have a love/hate relationship with outdoor cushions. But they make such a huge difference in how a space feels that I add them everywhere. Sunbrella fabric helps, as does using a fabric spray like this one.
Outdoor Pillows, throws, and Rugs.
If your patio or porch area is covered, YAY for you! Pile on those throws and bright pillows!
Outdoor throw pillows add color and comfort to porches and patios. A great tip for saving money on pillows is to freshen them up with a pillow cover, but reuse the inserts if they are still in good shape.
I also put outdoor rugs in as many outdoor spaces as possible. Why? I love the comfort of a rug! They are easy to clean, and with proper care (I store mine in the garage during the winter), they can last for many seasons. Last year, I splurged and bought this striped rug, and it’s a favorite for sure.
I am also a fan of deck boxes for storing cushions and pillows.
Outdoor Lighting
Oh, there are so many choices here. String lights on patios are such a pretty touch! I also love using outdoor lanterns and tabletop lighting to add ambiance to my summer evenings.
Solar is my favorite option for outdoor lighting, as you don’t have to worry about finding an electrical outlet (which never seems to be conveniently located!).
Green it up!
Greenery is the easiest way to elevate your outdoor spaces. While I may occasionally go a bit overboard with plants, it’s my favorite styling tip! Add all the plants!
How about a vertical living plant wall? This helps smaller spaces live large.
Mix up the type of plants you use.
Try succulents in planters on a fence. They will thrive in the warm weather.
I mix annuals, plants, and succulents in planters for visual interest.
Here is an example with succulents.
Place a hanging basket into a woven basket for texture.
You can even use a pretty wine bottle to help with all the watering. These plant stakes are a big help in keeping the flowers at my Airbnb’s watered between guests.
Green up your outdoor games with a few succulents with this checkerboard table.
More styling tips for your outdoor spaces:
The summer months are perfect for adding art to your covered porch.
Or maybe a fire table for the evening ambiance.
Front Porch decor ideas:
What about adding wood (cedar) to your covered porch or entry?
How about a fire pit in the front yard?
I hope you find these styling tips helpful in refreshing your outdoor spaces and that they inspire you to create a comfy spot that reflects your style and invites you to savor every moment of the summer season. So, embrace the beauty of outdoor living and make your porch the perfect place to unwind, recharge, and create lasting memories this summer.
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Until next time,
-Libbie
Other Favorite Posts:
Simple Outdoor Decor Inspiration Just in Time for Memorial Day
