7 Common Patio Decorating Mistakes to Avoid

7 Common Patio Decorating Mistakes to Avoid

With patio season around the corner, it's time to break-up with winter. While it's nice to stay warm and cozy indoors, it's even nicer to relax in the sun and take in fresh air. But before you get started on furnishing and decorating your patio, it's important to avoid these common mistakes.

Mistake #1. Too afraid to mix and match

You don't want to play it too safe and not mix and match your furniture pieces and decor. Similar to your indoor space, your patio benefits from the extra texture, pattern and accents. When it comes to accessories, such as pillows and outdoor dining sets, choose coordinating patterns and colours that compliment each other.

Mistake #2. Not having a consistent theme

Although mixing and matching is highly encouraged as it adds colour to your space, you also want to have a theme in mind. For instance, if you're going for a modern look, you want to incorporate contemporary furniture that is minimalistic with simple shapes and solid colours. In contrast, if you're looking to create a fancy outdoor bistro or a secret garden, you want to incorporate floral elements and classic cast aluminum furniture. Having a theme also helps you decide on which furniture and decoration to buy, rather than picking and choosing at random.

Hanlan 7-Piece 72-inch Outdoor Dining Set - Charcoal/Glass

Mistake #3. A poorly lit patio

A poorly lit patio makes it impossible to enjoy spending time outside when it gets dark, especially if you're planning a backyard party. You want to keep guests entertained all through the night with a variety of lights and layers, such as patio string lights, outdoor table lamps, light posts, wall light fixtures, and patio ceiling flush-mount and pendant lights. As a bonus, impress family and friends with a modern outdoor fire table to create a warm glow when the sun goes down.

Mistake #4. Not bringing the indoors - outdoors

You want your outdoor space to feel as comfortable and welcoming as your indoor space. While you should always choose outdoor furniture for your patio space, it doesn't mean your furniture and decor shouldn't have some indoor elements, such as comfy throws, potted plants, a coffee table and a rug. Don't hesitate to include an outdoor table lamp to add sophistication to your patio.

Also, it's important to keep in mind of weather elements that can cause wear and tear. Moisture resistant pillows and fade resistant rugs are ideal for creating a homelike space, while also being more resistant to natural elements.

Lagoon outdoor area rug

 

Mistake #5. Not enough shade

As nice as it is to stay in the sun, you don't want to be exposed to too much UV radiation. Your patio not only looks bare without any shade, but the patio cement can also become very hot. Jumbo sized umbrellas, such as the Bumbershoot 10' Solar LED Offset Outdoor Umbrella , are the best way to cover a large area of the patio. It also adds colour and a focal point to your patio space.

Mistake #6. Stiff furniture

Your patio should be an outdoor oasis where you can cozy up to a good book, drink some lemonade, and wind down and relax. The last thing you want to feel is uncomfortable and stiff while lounging at your patio. For an extra level of comfort, choose furniture with outdoor cushions and lots of seating space. As well, consider getting an outdoor daybed, such as the Island Pebbles Patio Canopy Daybed , so you can enjoy lounging in supreme comfort.  

Island Pebbles Patio Canopy Daybed with Ottoman - Beige/Grey

Mistake #7. Poor furniture arrangement

When it comes laying out furniture, you don't want to overcrowd your space. However, you also don't want it to be too minimal and stripped down to the bare essentials. For starters, it's important to have a focal point, such as a patio table or swimming pool, which serves as a primary gathering point and the heart of your patio arrangement.

Think about the traffic flow of your layout. How can you minimize foot traffic without creating an obstructive space? Can people move around easily? Furthermore, having different size furniture helps create balance.

Don't forget to have fun!

Keeping these points in mind, have some fun furnishing your patio! Browse through our wide selection of outdoor patio furniture and find the latest items and inspiration to help create your outdoor oasis.

 

Boajibu Concrete Indoor / Outdoor Accent Table