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Patio Decorating Ideas that Bring the Indoors Out

Transform your patio into an extension of your living space by adding some thoughtful decor. By including certain elements, you can make an outdoor space as comfortable and relaxing as your cozy interior. Here are 10 patio decorating ideas to try.

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ComfortablePhotographee.eu/Shutterstock

Make it Comfortable

No matter how many string lights you hang or candles you light, no one will want to spend time on your patio if it isn’t comfortable. Make sure your patio furniture has adequate pads and pillows, consider adding an indoor-outdoor rug that feels good under bare feet and make sure there’s plenty of shade during the hottest parts of the day. These 12 incredible pieces of DIY outdoor furniture will transform your patio.

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About That Shade

If your patio starts right outside your door and it gets a lot of sun, considering adding a patio awning. Awnings come in many sizes and styles, and will give you some protection from the hot sun and even a light rain shower. Most awnings can be attached to a variety of surfaces, including siding and stucco.

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Bring the Entertainment

One of our favorite patio decorating ideas is to bring what is typically indoor entertainment outside with an outdoor projection kit. You’ll be able to watch everything from the big game to family movies. This outdoor projection kit allows you to stream from your Roku, Google Chromecast, Amazon FireTV Stick, smartphone or an HDMI cable. If your concrete patio is looking worn, here’s how you can make it beautiful by installing pavers right over the concrete. Check out the complete how-tos here.

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outdoor seatingannamariah/Shutterstock

Add Plants

When it comes to easy patio decorating ideas, plants make a big impact. Add potted plants and flowers, or if you have a privacy fence or a wall of the house near the patio, add some boxes with succulents for an easy-to-care for living wall.

Get creative with these 15 ideas on how to hang plants outside.

Check out these 14 tips for growing succulents outside.

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Relax on a Swing

A swing is not only a nice addition when it comes to decorating your patio, it also serves a function as additional seating. Whether it’s a free-standing swing for two or a one-person hanging swing, it will be a relaxing spot to enjoy the outdoors. Kick your outdoor seating up a notch with one of these 10 handsome porch swings.

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Light a Fire

For a patio that beckons you to sit and relax, add some fire. Whether it’s lantern candles or a patio fire table, fire not only adds ambiance, but also welcome warmth when the sun goes down. There are a variety of patio fire tables available for purchase, from simple and small to large ones that make a great patio centerpiece.

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Light it Up

Light up your patio with some creative lighting. If you’re looking for something a bit different, try curtain lights hung from a pergola or roof edge. The soft, white lights have seven modes and won’t get hot or overheat over long periods of use. These 15 string light ideas will make you want to live outside.

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basilBarthFotografie/Shutterstock

Add Herbs

Herbs will not only add some life to your patio space, but some fresh fragrance, as well. Try adding some rosemary, mint or basil in pots and place them on patio tables. These are the best herbs to grow on a patio.

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patio N. Mitchell/Shutterstock

Go Seasonal

Don’t be afraid to add seasonal decorations to your patio. When the temperature starts to fall, add some decorative gourds and pumpkins, fall flowers, a tabletop lantern and some cozy throws. Homey, seasonal touches will make you want to stay outside long after summer has ended.

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Rachel Brougham
Writer and editor with a background in news writing, editorial and column writing and content marketing.