Easy Patio Decor Ideas For A Cool Summer Spot

It has literally been torture waiting for the cold temps to wrap up here in Chicago and I have been soooo ready to run to the nursery to get flowers and get digging! We’ve just gotten through the whole of April and I have been dying to share a few easy diy patio decor ideas that have instantly turned our outside space into a little slice of heaven.

create a cool summer space with these easy patio decor ideas

I wanted to have it wrapped up by May so I could be ready in time to enjoy the backyard with my family all season long! The first great way to bring in that vintage sort of antique-inspired style is iron!

Iron accents and furniture always set the tone for a more old-fashioned look, which is what I seem to always fall in love with…

Start with a blank canvas and dress it up!

I made just a few simple and easy changes to give this rather plain iron furniture/space a brand new pulse. With just a few items (and a whole lotta color) I was able to transform it into a tiny lush oasis that will be bringing us joy all season long.

Add colorful Table Linens and Cushions

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I pretty much started with a bare empty back space and our iron patio set. The first thing I did was add a pop of color with some new table linens plus some cushions for the chairs…

I chose some cream/oatmeal type colors for the basic tablecloth and cushions. For some color, I layered the tablecloth with a square cut table “throw” in blue. I like the idea of layering fabrics since its a quick and easy way to add character to the table.

Style A Plant Rack with Flowers + Herbs to add charm to your patio decor

The next easy patio decor idea is to add a plant rack outside. I found this iron Bakers rack that serves as shelves to put plants on. It adds rustic charm instantly! Growing up, my favorite aunt, Sonia, kept an old fashioned antique iron plant rack in the patio.

She always kept it filled to the brim with fresh herbs and flowers all summer long. I used to love coming over so I could sit right next to it with a cool glass of iced tea.

You can totally create a similar feel by adding a plant rack. Fill it with fresh flowers to create a mini lush garden right next to your seating area.

I just had to load it up with flowers and fresh herbs to make it feel just like my auntie’s. It is truly my favorite and most cherished addition of all..

Add A Planter Box To add Stylish Garden Containers TO your Patio decor

Next on the list of easy patio decor ideas is another grouping of small colorful plants! I added a sort of makeshift plant rack… I had a little folding cart with a little shelf space in it that rolls on wheels that I repurposed as a holder for these colorful flowers. You can create a similar look with a raised plant stand or a planter box with legs. Some stands hold one rounded pot, some are rectangular and may hold a few pots or a wide box planter, which is fun to style too.

I brought the stand outside this time and found that it could double as a cute little space to put a bottle of wine and glasses…However, I placed some gorgeous Gerbera daisies that my husband brought over and they look great!

Try adding flowers in your favorite coordinating colors so they complement each other. Mix and match tall blooms with creeping and hanging vines for an even more lush and dramatic garden effect near your seating area.

tropical plants Add a relaxing vibe To your outdoor patio decor

Another breezy detail was to add a touch of the tropics with a green palm. Try repotting your palm and placing it on a stand to give it a little more drama and height. It will bring a cool relaxing feel to that whole spot.

Bring the Indoors Outside

To finish things off, I added a patio umbrella. Drive home this easy patio decor idea by bringing out a little tray with fruit, glasses, and coasters. It will bring a homey touch of the indoors outside.

Style up your outdoor patio decor with table accents

Grab a tray and some coasters and entertain outside with with wooden accents and colorful glassware. It adds so much character!

If desired, you can finish off your look by adding a lantern or some candles in the early evening.

add a little patio lighting for ambiance

This will add a touch of warm, fiery, flickering light to the patio. Tiki torches are always a fun idea too…As you can see, a few cozy diy patio decor ideas changed this plain space into a colorful, enjoyable space to relax or entertain.

Try Some Tiki Torches

Twinkle lights can add a touch of sparkling and create more subtle lighting accents throughout your space as well…

bring on the twinkle lights

Candle lighting is my favorite…It just creates a magical and soothing touch and may I even say, elegance!

add a vintage twist with iron accents to spice up your outdoor patio decor

An old iron sconce with a little sand and some pillar candles brings that cool easy vintage antique patio decor feel…

Interesting pieces like this antique iron Japanese lantern bring a most unique touch to a baker’s rack loaded with potted flowers…

Add candlelight for ambiance and mood

Even a simple glass hurricane adds a tasteful lighting accent!

solar powered lighting

Solar powered lanterns are a great touch to bring in lighting accents throughout the yard. It’s energy-efficient too!

I hope you find one or two things that you might try out to style your space. If you enjoy an old fashioned feel, like I do, try some of these easy vintage antique patio decor ideas that will bring the charm back to your space….

With a few flowers, linens, cushions, and tasty drinks, we’ve set the stage for these simple diy patio decor ideas We’re ready to enjoy great conversation, bites, and sips for the memorable summer nights ahead.

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