No matter the size or shape of your yard or patio, it's helpful to know the basics of using outdoor decor. You can decorate for specific occasions or change the entire aesthetic of your space in myriad ways - many without breaking the bank. Here are some common questions about decorating outdoors and tips to help you get started:
How do you decorate an outdoor area?
When decorating an outdoor area, try starting with lighting. Replace any existing light fixtures with more stylish options, and add more accent lighting to create ambiance. Hang a chic pendant light from a covered porch, or add magic with twinkling string lights.
Once you have your lighting, focus on defining the space. Combine an outdoor area rug with matching outdoor pillows for a simple outdoor decor formula.
What about outdoor decor on a budget?
Upcycling is a great way to decorate an outdoor living space on a budget. Consider repurposing old furniture pieces to give them new life outside. A fresh coat of paint and some weatherproofing can transform almost anything into patio furniture on a budget.
How do you weatherproof outdoor decorations?
It's important to protect your decorative items from the elements, no matter the time of year. Use a clear polyurethane sealant on wood-based pieces. To prevent wind-related damage, weigh down your outdoor decor by anchoring lightweight pieces to the ground, wall or a heavy object.
Can I temporarily decorate for company or special occasions?
Decorating an outdoor space with seasonal or holiday flair is a fun way to celebrate and show your creative side. When choosing more temporary decorative items, opt for those you can reuse the following year. If you're decorating for a special occasion, make sure to store these special pieces safely for later use.
What about semi-permanent decorations?
You can add a personal touch to your outdoor space without the need to change things constantly. Simple updates like adding new outdoor furniture or refreshing the garden will keep your space feeling stylish and low-maintenance.
Are you ready to get started on your outdoor decor project? Keep these tips in mind to create the perfect vibe for your outdoor living area.
About the Author
Judy Szablak
With over 30 years in the industry, Realtor Judy Szablak has been on national television for her real estate expertise on the HGTV Network, featured on Martha Stewart Living Radio "Morning Living” , NPR radio as an expert real estate panelist, It’s Relevant News channel, and quoted in the Wall Street Journal for her in depth knowledge of Fairfield County Connecticut real estate.
She was also on the local NPR radio station (WSHU) as a Fairfield County CT real estate expert. Judy has provided multiple online respected news sources with her real estate expertise including The Daily Easton, The Daily Weston, The Daily Fairfield, The Daily Stamford and The Daily Greenwich, as well as in print in the New York Post. She is a weekly Real Estate Columnist for WestportNow.com, another real estate column "Real Estate With Judy” is syndicated through Hearst CT Media Online and seen in The Connecticut Post, The Danbury News-Times, The Stamford Advocate, The Greenwich Time, The Hour, Fairfield Citizen, Westport News, Darien News, New Canaan News and the Wilton Villager.
Judy is also the author of the book, The Art of Buying or Selling a Home, available at all major book retailers. Additionally, Judy has been nationally recognized in a number of national real estate trade magazines, some with distribution to over 1 million members. She was featured in Real Estate Today as early as 1994 for her commitment to, and implementation of technology in real estate. Judy appeared in the Certified Residential Specialist Magazine, as she provided advice on marketing strategies and ethics in the article titled "Marketing Makeovers.”
Judy was also featured in REALTOR® Magazine, regarding image enhancement for Realtors. She was again featured in REALTOR® Magazine, in an article on "Achieving Flow” and operating at optimal peak performance. In another article in the same publication, Judy offered guidance to fellow real estate professionals as she explored the topic of implementing and maintaining personal websites. She has appeared in The Council of Residential Specialists Magazine, which featured her ideas regarding technology. Additionally, Judy authored an article on marketing and technology for the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Online Magazine. On two occasions, in 2015 and 2017, she appeared as a featured agent in Top Agent Magazine. I have a few other websites- www.TheCtrealtyBlog.com www.CtHomesAndRealEstate.com www.BestWestportHomes.com www.ThePetitePowerhouse.com www,SzablakConsulting.com
