All Decked Out

Is your deck or patio an outdoor oasis of relaxation and fun or is it an uninviting eyesore?

Many of us neglect our decks and rarely use them to their fullest potential.

Create a living space outside that your family and friends will love in 5 Easy Steps!

Allow me to show you what it looked like before.

Yuck… enough said.

Step 1: REMOVE CLUTTER

Pick up random items, put away any items that don’t belong, and clean away all of winter’s dirt, leaves, and debris.

My deck is still in need of a good power washing and another coat of stain, which is scheduled in the next few weeks.

Step 2: REFURBISH

The table was old, rusty and headed for the curb, but a quick spray of black paint extended it’s life for one more year.

Isn’t spray paint wonderful?

Remove or repair any furniture that is rusted or could cause injury, and consider replacing it with new items.

Step 3: CREATE CONVERSATIONAL SEATING

The ancient, uncomfortable chairs were replaced with an all weather wicker seating collection.

Create an intimate seating arrangement, so friends can converse with each other easily and also have views of your yard.

Anchor your seating with an out door rug and add a coffee table or small side tables for resting drinks or plates.

Step 4: ADD LIGHTING

Lanterns are all the rage this season.

You can find them splashed across the pages of Pottery Barn and Ballard Designs.

I found several selections to choose from at my local Lowe’s, but I’ve also seen them at Target, TJ Maxx/Home Goods, and even my grocery store!

I filled mine with some seashells we’ve collected at the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Two small lanterns from Lowe’s add evening candlelight that won’t blow out in the warm summer breezes.

The lower height of the lanterns also allow you to see your guests across the table.

Step 5: ADD COLOR

Choose a prominent color and a complementary color and display them in chair cushions, throw pillows, table umbrellas, pottery and of course, flowers! I chose red and lime green.

This year I wanted even more emphasis on color and coziness so I purchased a polypropylene rug from Target.

It is made for outdoors and all it needs is a spray with the hose if it gets dirty!

My kids love it!

5 Easy Steps to transform your deck will provide hours of fun and memory making with friends and family.

So light a lantern, sip a sweet tea, or steal a little snooze in your outdoor oasis!

 

Kim

linking up to: Funky Junk Interiors, Saturday Night Special