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Is your patio currently a cluttered mess? It’s time for a makeover that won’t blow your budget. To optimize patio time, you’ll want to create a clean, comfortable spot.
We turned to Heather Knight-Willcock, an interior designer based in Long Beach, California, for her advice on redecorating a patio without dropping a ton of cash. As an expert for ShopGoodwill.com, Knight-Willcock is well-versed in seeking the best deals, and shopping with an eye for budget-friendly and second-hand options.
Here’s how Knight-Willcock would decorate a patio for under $200—and how you can, too.
Meet the Expert
Heather Knight-Willcock is an interior designer and expert for ShopGoodwill.com based in Long Beach, California.
Start With a Good Patio Cleaning
Before adding fresh decor to your patio, take away some not-so-fresh features. You may be surprised how a simple but deep clean can completely revamp your patio.
“A little bit of sweat equity can go a long way in outdoor spaces,” Knight-Willcock says.
- First, sweep your entire patio.
- Then, scrub the surface to break down built-up grime.
- Finally, wash down everything with a hose or pressure washer.
- Toss any cushions and pillow covers in the wash, too.
- It’s also a good time to repair or recycle broken and unwanted items, from chipped planters to cracked watering cans to dead plants.
Paint or Stain
Mary Patton Design / Photo by Molly Culver
For an immediate wow-worthy patio makeover, consider painting or staining. A new color will always make the most impact for the least amount of money. Could your furniture or fence benefit from a fresh coat?
“A new coat of paint or staining on furniture and fences can completely transform the space,” Knight-Willcock says.
KILZ Low-Lustre Enamel Porch & Patio Latex Floor Paint
Amazon
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Add a Rug
Outdoor-friendly rugs are both pretty and utilitarian. They can add punchy color or patterns, and leave a soft feeling underfoot.
“Rugs are great for defining zones and covering up less-than-desirable floors,” Knight-Willcock says.
Design Tip
There’s no need to blow your budget on an outdoor rug, though. Knight-Willcock recommends searching for an inexpensive option second-hand.
Reversible Outdoor Rug
Amazon
Layer in Lighting
Even with summer’s long days, lighting is a must-have for any patio space. For lighting, Knight-Willcock would include fairy lights for their inexpensive, magical effect, and battery-operated or solar lanterns for ambiance.
“Solar lighting has come a long way—and means you don’t have to stress about finding plugs in the right locations,” she says.
Outdoor String Lights
Amazon
Shop for Furniture
What good is a patio if you can’t kick back and relax? Knight-Willcock says the three most important aspects of creating a comfortable patio are seating, a place to set a drink, and some shade.
Shop for inexpensive yet comfortable chairs or a cozy bench, along with a small table for drinks and snacks. An umbrella or shade sail can make a big difference in your patio being a relaxing getaway too.
Patio Sense 62774 Sava Indoor Outdoor Folding Chair
Amazon
Accessorize with Colorful Accents
Design by Mary Patton Design / Photo by Molly Culver
The final step in refreshing your patio is perhaps the most fun. Decor allows your personality to shine, so don’t shy away from the eye-catching pieces you find.
Pillows and cushions offer an affordable opportunity to mix and match colors and patterns, while quirky signs and thrifted one-of-a-kind pieces add charm that’s all yours.
There’s no need to throw down cash on store-bought plants either. Instead, repot cuttings from friends and neighbors.
Other must-have items on Knight-Willcock’s patio shopping list include throw blankets to make chilly evenings more welcoming, citronella candles to keep the bugs away while adding ambiance, and outdoor art, like a personalized sign or landscape-friendly sculptures.
Outdoor Citronella Candle
Walmart
