With summer just a few months away, many homeowners are probably looking forward to hosting gatherings outside. Whether you’re having friends over for a barbecue or just relaxing on your day off, a comfortable and inviting outdoor space is a must. So if you’re living in San Jose, Philadelphia, or anywhere in between, and are looking for some patio decor ideas, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s Redfin’s guide on how to use plants, decor, and more to level up your patio space.
1. Keep warm with fireplaces and heaters
You don’t have to live in a city like Miami or San Diego to comfortably enjoy your outdoor patio year round. There are plenty of ways for you and your guests to stay nice and toasty outdoors, even if the weather’s a little chilly.
“People in the Pacific Northwest love being outdoors, which is a key reason we live here, but those without covered spaces enjoy the outdoors four months less each year than those with one,” says Grace McNiel from PCF Group. “Right now, there’s a growing desire for custom outdoor fireplaces, heaters, and kitchens to create spaces for entertaining, reading, or practicing yoga.”
2. Use multipurpose pieces in your patio decor
No one has unlimited space, so incorporating elements that can serve multiple purposes is a great way to get the most out of your patio decor.
“Be practical with your budget, solutions, and your space,” advises Jenifer Schweitzer from spruce &adorn™. “Invest in a really great ice bucket and transform it into a storage like a side table or footstool when not in use to keep drinks cold. This leaves room for it in your patio’s footprint for when you have a gathering and utilize it for its intended purpose.”
3. Incorporate indoor elements and outdoor lighting
The best patios are the ones that make you feel as comfortable as you would be inside your house. What better way to accomplish this than by taking indoor elements and using them to enhance your outdoor space?
“Elevate your patio by incorporating elements typically found inside—woven basket pendant lights that hold up to the elements, outdoor rugs that look and feel like indoor ones, and comfortable, well-crafted furniture,” says Matt from Bass & Bennett. “Overhead lighting or architectural details like a pergola help create a sense of a ceiling, making the space feel more intimate and well-proportioned. These details bring structure and warmth, turning your patio into a true outdoor room.”
4. Upgrade existing furniture with different textures and fabrics
Sprucing up your patio doesn’t have to mean splurging on costly furniture. Adding accents and accessories to the pieces you already own can give your space new life without emptying your pockets.
“There is such a variety of outdoor fabrics available, from more traditional tropical prints and stripes to textures and even velvets, that updating throw pillows or table linens can give your anchor furniture pieces new life,” says Kristina Bruggeman from Home Again Fabric and Furnishings. “If you don’t want to replace the covers on all of the patio furniture cushions, pick a chair to redo or swap out the fabrics on all the back cushions in your set for an instant, budget-friendly upgrade.”
Jan from Relics Rentals recommends focusing on often overlooked details done professionally to elevate the space.
“For example, if the homeowner wants to keep their existing furniture, then we recommend they upgrade it with custom cushions and matching pillows in a Sunbrella fabric and trim. Additionally, while DIY-installed cafe lights from a big box store are a nice touch, we recommend a commercial-grade version installed by a professional that’ll really make a difference in the overall aesthetic.”
5. Opt for some eco-friendly patio decor
Patio decor is obviously good for improving the aesthetics of your home’s outdoor living space, but what if we told you that it could be good for the environment too? Patio decor ideas that incorporate sustainable elements are truly a win-win, and there’s no shortage of environmentally friendly ways to make your outdoor space pop.
“Choosing eco-friendly and sustainable furniture is not only great for the environment, but it’s also furniture that will last a lifetime,” says Logan Molineux from Broward Design Center
6. Add a water element to your patio
“Looking to elevate your patio? Consider incorporating a water feature to transform your outdoor space into a tranquil oasis,” says Julian Gomez from Scapesart. “Whether it’s a serene pond or a charming fountain, these additions not only enhance relaxation but also boost your home’s aesthetic appeal and value.”
7. Prioritize comfort with seating and coverage options
Plentiful seating is a must when it comes to patio decor ideas. Whether you plan on hosting guests or simply lounging in your backyard, including comfortable places to sit will create a space that’s so relaxing that you won’t want to leave.
“A chic and welcoming patio should have ample cozy seating, dimmable lighting, tabletop space for drinks and snacks, and soft rugs and throws,” says La Parisienne Home owner and curator Amber Wright. “If your outdoor space doesn’t have an overhang or coverage, it’s hospitable to have an umbrella or canopy options for anyone that doesn’t want to be in the sun. Lush foliage really rounds out the space and gives the feeling of experiencing the outdoors, so even if you don’t have room for a lot of plants or flowers, add some greenery to your tabletop or incorporate color into your accessories.”
8. Install a high-tech patio cover for weather-proof outdoor living
“In the Pacific Northwest, where weather often limits outdoor living, a smart louvered pergola can completely transform how—and when—you use your patio,” says Kasia Moreira from Bellevue, WA-based Home Service Specialists. “The high-tech systems we install adjust automatically to sun, rain, wind, and even snow, creating a space you can enjoy comfortably, 24/7, all year long. When paired with integrated lighting, motorized screens, heaters, fans, and fire features, it’s no longer just a patio—it becomes a true extension of your home, bringing daily joy, year-round comfort, and added value.”