Experts Reveal Easy Ways to Perk Up Your Patio for Under $300

Spring just arrived, but blink and it’ll be summer—and prime time to soak up the warmer weather from the comfort of your patio. If, that is, you’re lucky enough to have one.

For many, a patio serves as the ideal entertaining area, providing the perfect spot to lounge around, relax, or dine al fresco during the warm-weather months.

But for those homeowners who don’t live in the country’s warmer areas and aren’t able to use their patio spaces year-round, preparing the space for summer can feel like a bit of a daunting task, particularly if it has fallen into a state of disrepair during the winter.

Luckily, there are some very quick and easy ways to pep up your patio, which don’t require you to splash a ton of cash. Nor do these techniques take up a huge amount of time or energy.

If your patio could use a refresh, now’s the perfect time to get it ready for all the lounging, hosting, and last-minute dinners ahead. Below, three designers share their favorite patio decor ideas—for around $300.

What are the easiest and most budget-friendly patio decor ideas?

If you’re short on time, here’s the cheat sheet:

• Add an outdoor rug + poufs to define your space

• Use a trellis with climbing plants to create a focal point

• Install string lights for instant ambiance

How can I add some personality to my patio?

Chicago-based interior designer and stylist Kyle Schuneman says the fastest way to upgrade your patio is simple: Accessorize like you would an indoor space.

Start by grounding the space with an outdoor rug: “This will immediately dress up your space and is a much cheaper option than trying to fix up a patio floor or deck,” he says. “Keep it neutral with a simple pattern so it can work with what you already have.”  

Next, add a couple outdoor poufs: Not only are they great for putting your feet up and for extra seating, Schuneman says, “they also add pattern and color to make things pop.”

Finally, unify mismatched planters with spray paint: “Spray paint them a few different shades of the same color for a rich, layered effect.” Schuneman suggests creams, taupes, or grays.

Shopping list: 

• 5’3 x 8’ Jill Zarin Costa Rica Indoor/Outdoor Rug, $119 at Rugs.com

• Safford Square Woven Indoor/Outdoor Pouf, $218 for 2 at Wayfair.com

• Krylon COLORMaxx Matte Paint & Primer in Sand Dollar, $6 at Lowe’s

• Colorshot Premium Satin Spray Paint in Skinny Dip, $9 at Michael’s

Total: $352

Can I fake a pretty patio view?

No view? No problem. Design blogger Erin Francois has a simple solution: “You can create a big, impactful focal point with a simple and affordable trellis,” she suggests.

Start with a trellis: If you’re handy, check out Francois’s easy trellis DIY; if not, there are plenty of affordable ready-made options out there. 

Next, choose your plants: You’ll want to pick trailing and crawling varieties like ivy, jasmine, roses and wisteria. Pick 1-2 plants per trellis and be sure to guide the vines up into the wood squares to get things started. 

For planters, stick to a consistent material: Terra cotta is the easiest win.

“The unifying material and color palette will create a cohesive look, and the varying designs will bring so much character,” she says. And you can often find terracotta planters and pots on Facebook Marketplace, Buy Nothing Groups, and secondhand stores. 

Shopping list:

• 24”x48” Wood Lattice Panel Trellis, $112 at Wayfair

• 2.5 qt. Star Jasmine Live Vine Plant with White Fragrant Blooms, $48 for two at The Home Depot

• 2.5 Gal. Amethyst Falls Wisteria Live Vine Plant, $43 at The Home Depot

• Concrete Fluted Outdoor Planter in Terra Cotta — Small, $50 at Pottery Barn

• Ecopots Round Pot – 12″, $45 at Bloomscape

Total: $298

What are the best ways to add lighting to my patio?

Philadelphia-based designer Michelle Gage puts overhead lights at the top of her list. “They let the party continue after dark,” she says. 

Start by assessing your setup: If you’ve got trees or posts, you’re set. If not, grab a set of poles designed for patios—they’re renter-friendly and surprisingly easy to install.

Choose your lights: Gage recommends a couple strands of weatherproof Edison lights.

Don’t forget the hardware: You’ll also want to invest in a couple of mounting kits to make sure everything stays in place. 

Shopping list: 

• Excello Global Products Four 10-ft String Light Poles, $130 at The Home Depot

• Outdoor 48 ft. Plug-in S14 Edison Bulb String Light with 16 LED Filament Light Bulbs, $80 for two at The Home Depot

• 48 ft. String Light Hanging, Mounting Kit, Wire, Mounting Hooks, $31 for 2 at The Home Depot

Total: $241