An Interior Designer Told Us to Add These ‘Fresh Touches’ to Your Patio, Deck, or Backyard for Entertaining

As spring approaches, with the onset of the season marked on March 20th, many are keen to refresh their outdoor spaces in anticipation of hosting gatherings. The transition doesn’t have to wait; there are numerous furniture and décor options available that can help elevate patios, decks, or backyards right now. To assist with these updates, interior designer Amber Guyton from Blessed Little Bungalow has shared her recommendations for must-have items.

Guyton, who is known for her accessible and inviting design approach, emphasises the joy of spending time outdoors, especially as nature comes back to life. Her suggestions cater to a variety of outdoor occasions, from casual brunches to lively evening get-togethers. Whether homeowners are looking to update their seating arrangements or add interesting accents, Guyton offers choices from well-known retailers such as Amazon, Wayfair, and Pottery Barn, with prices beginning at a wallet-friendly £25.

Among her standout recommendations is the Jonathan Y Tracy 9-Foot Patio Umbrella, priced at £172, down from its original price of £192 on Amazon. Desiring a stylish yet functional outdoor space, Guyton highlights the significance of an umbrella as an essential piece for any hosting scenario in summer. The umbrella features a double-layered scalloped edge and is available in several colours, with a particular fondness for the vibrant coral hue. Its adjustable tilt system allows users to easily manage sunlight exposure throughout the day, ensuring a shaded area is always available.

For comfort and aesthetics, the Latitude Run Frisina Lounge Chairs, available as a set of two for £540— a notable reduction from £919 at Wayfair— are also on Guyton’s list. She describes these chairs as reminiscent of “Napa Valley garden party” vibes, thanks to their oversized proportions and modern silhouette which allows for leisurely conversations. This kind of seating creates a welcoming nook in any outdoor arrangement without overwhelming the available space.

Guyton does not stop with seating, as she suggests the CB2 Scatola Terrazzo Outdoor Coffee Table as a striking focal point for outdoor areas. Priced at £1,399, this piece boasts a robust and stylish feel, perfect for enjoying drinks or snacks with friends. She notes its versatile surface area and elegant design, which can enhance the outdoor aesthetics significantly.

Additionally, the Pottery Barn Aptos 3-Piece Outdoor Sectional, available for £4,047, is another luxurious recommendation from Guyton, with the original price set at £4,497. This sectional is ideal for creating an inviting lounge space, making it perfect for gatherings under the sun or stars.

When it comes to outdoor lighting, Guyton recommends the CB2 Hastings Aged Brass Outdoor Lantern, retailing at £149. The right lighting can transform an outdoor setting, allowing for a warm atmosphere during evening get-togethers.

To further enhance the comfort of outdoor spaces, she recommends the Lahome Modern Washable Rug, priced at £57 on Amazon. The addition of rugs helps delineate areas in gardens or patios, creating homely spaces for relaxation. Additionally, Guyton advises accessorising outdoor seating with the Arden Outdoor Throw Pillows, available in sets of two for just £25 at Target, to inject bursts of colour and comfort.

For those looking to enhance their outdoor settings with greenery, Guyton suggests the Threshold Indoor/Outdoor Stoneware Planter available for £20 at Target. She encourages homeowners to move away from standard terracotta pots and suggests opting for playful designs, such as checkerboard patterns in pastel colours, to add a contemporary flair to porches or patios.

Lastly, for practical storage solutions, the Costway 46-Gallon Deck Storage Box, priced at £128, is recommended. This dual-purpose item allows for impactful storage while providing a surface for extra seating or display.

In summary, Amber Guyton’s recommendations encompass a comprehensive variety of outdoor furniture and decor, aimed at creating beautiful and inviting spaces in time for spring. With a range of products available at varying price points from well-known retailers, refreshing outdoor areas can be both attainable and stylish for everyone gearing up for the hosting season ahead.