Welcome to the May edition of My Five Favorites! This monthly series, hosted alongside the talented Kris from Driven By Decor, Pam from Simple Details, and Jennifer from Dimples & Tangles, is all about sharing inspiration for your spaces. This month, we’re thrilled to feature Julia from Cuckoo4Design. Julia’s vibrant and creative style is infused with color, personality, and brilliant DIY ideas just look at her unique curtains and stunning artwork!
As spring blooms and summer beckons, it’s the perfect time to turn our attention to the outdoors. I’m currently diving into a major outdoor DIY project that my family is eagerly anticipating. While those big updates unfold, I want to share some simple and affordable ways to refresh your outdoor spaces. With a touch of creativity and nature’s beauty, these ideas will transform your space into a welcoming haven.
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1. Bring on a Splash of Cheerful Color
There’s nothing quite like vibrant, flowering plants to infuse joy into an outdoor space. A colorful garden or potted flowers can instantly brighten any area, and I love using them to complement other decor elements.
For example, our deck features a roll-out awning that came with the house. While the red-striped design wouldn’t have been my first choice, it’s proven invaluable during the summer. To harmonize with the awning’s colors, I planted red petunias, double impatiens, and reddish-coral hibiscus. These blooms thrived all summer and even into the fall, creating a cohesive and cheerful aesthetic.
Growing herbs in the summer is both practical and decorative. Elevate your herbs from plain plastic containers to colorful or unique pots to add charm to your outdoor space.
Stores like Marshalls and HomeGoods are treasure troves for affordable, stylish garden pots. If you’re in Massachusetts or Rhode Island, I highly recommend Ocean State Job Lot for an amazing selection of glazed pots at unbeatable prices.
Herbs aren’t just useful in the kitchen; they can add texture, color, and even a pleasant fragrance to your outdoor space. Whether it’s basil, thyme, or lavender, these plants bring both form and function to your setup.
3. Spruce Up Your Entry with Plants and Lighting
A welcoming entry sets the tone for your outdoor spaces. During summer, I focus on sprucing up our backyard entry. A couple of years ago, I left a mandevilla plant at the base of the back stairs, and to my delight, it climbed up beautifully, creating a natural and inviting décor element.
I also added a stepping stone path and a small garden leading from our driveway to the deck. At the start of the season, I refresh the garden’s edges using a manual edger. It’s a bit of a workout but well worth the results!
For lighting, I’ve installed glass solar lights along the pathway. These are not only practical but also add a magical glow to the garden at night.
Lighting isn’t just for practicality it’s also a way to set the mood. Whether it’s twinkling string lights, lanterns, or solar-powered garden stakes, lighting can make your outdoor space feel cozy and inviting.
4. Outdoor Pillows, Of Course!
It’s no secret that pillows are a blogger’s best friend when it comes to transforming spaces. Outdoor pillows can add comfort and style to your setup, and they’re an easy way to switch up the look seasonally.
Last year, I discovered Tommy Bahama outdoor pillows on Etsy. These beauties feature a palm print that perfectly complements our deck’s awning. On sale for just $30.60 for two, they’re a steal and have become a staple in our outdoor decor.
Stay tuned, as these pillows will be making an appearance when I share more about our revamped outdoor space!
Pillows aren’t just decorative; they’re also an invitation to relax. Pair them with a cozy outdoor throw, and you’ll have a space that feels as comfortable as your indoor living room.
5. Create a Beverage Station
My absolute favorite way to enhance outdoor spaces is by creating a beverage station. A few summers ago, I upcycled a baby changing table into a functional and stylish beverage cart for the deck. It became a hit for both kids and adults during gatherings, serving up iced tea, lemonade, or even festive cocktails like Red, White & Blue Sangria or Pineapple-Infused Vodka.
Though I eventually sold the cart due to limited storage, I’m planning a new built-in beverage station for this summer. Adding DIY mercury glass shelves to the cart was a fun project that gave it a polished, sophisticated touch.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out at thrift stores for affordable gems like glass drink dispensers. They’re perfect for outdoor entertaining!
Beverage stations aren’t just about function—they’re also a conversation starter. From unique glassware to creative drink recipes, you can personalize your station to reflect your style.
Wishing you many happy moments enjoying the outdoors this spring and summer! For more inspiration, don’t miss the amazing posts from my co-hosts:
