Gazebo Reveal and 5 Outdoor Lounge Area Must-Haves
Let’s start from the beginning, shall we?
One of the things that really turned me off about our back patio was the visual coldness of the concrete (not to mention how dirty it all was – but that’s an easy fix). What I loved about it was this beautiful screened-in gazebo. It had potential…it just needed a little TLC. So we scrubbed everything down, and for the first year we made due with what we had from our previous home so that I could get a feel for what worked and what didn’t.
This April, as the weather started to warm enough for me to emerge from hibernation, I got started right away. Turns out, the gazebo isn’t our ideal dining area – so the first order of business was to find affordable lounge furniture. I ended up finding the perfect set on Facebook Marketplace. Coincidentally, I already had the matching bar cart from Target – it was meant to be!
Must-Have #1: Lounge Furniture
Whether it’s a sectional, small sofa, accent chairs or a mix and match combination of these – furniture is the backbone of your patio space.
It is important to me that our gazebo feels cozy…almost indoorsy. The best way to add comfort to any space is to add a rug. I selected an indoor/outdoor area rug, ordered the largest size and covered almost every inch of the concrete floor with neutral, woven perfection.
Must-Have #2: Outdoor Rug
Choose something that complements your furniture in a size that is suitable for your space.
Adults aren’t the only ones that enjoy this space. Our kids like to play games, ride bikes and have snacks in the gazebo. This space is also used frequently for entertaining guests. That said, we needed a table that was durable, but small and light enough to accommodate the versatility of the space.
Must-Have #3 – Coffee Table or Accent Table
Add at least one table to your space as a landing place for drinks and snacks. It can also be styled with lanterns and candles for ambience.
For texture, I added some throw pillows in a few different sizes and colors, throughout. I wanted additional seating around the coffee table, so I added a couple of floor cushions.
Must-Have #4: Pillows
No lounge space is complete without pillows. Add as many as you like – choose patterns and colors that compliment your furniture’s cushions and tie in your rug.
I have the opposite of a green thumb. I am the murderer of all living plants, but faux greenery has come such a long way and can look just as good as the real thing! I added a faux palm in a tall planter for height, and a couple of small hanging baskets.
Must-Have #5: Greenery
Adding planters, hanging baskets, and other greenery will elevate your space and take it to the next level.
Incorporate some finishing touches such as a throw blanket, candles and string lights – and voila!
What a difference one month can make!
What do you think!? What are some of your lounge space must-haves?
Xoxo,
Sarah
