Your patio or balcony is square footage that you should take full advantage of. But too often it’s a neglected space or an afterthought that’s only used occasionally or treated as storage. With the addition of a few key furniture pieces and accessories, you can transform this area into a fabulous relaxation spot or a hub for entertaining.

Comfortable Seating

Think about how you’d like to use your outdoor space, and then get some appropriate seating. If you want it to be your zen zone, then a cushioned chaise or deep lounge chair is probably the way to go. But if you envision it as a place to eat outdoors and host friends, a table and dining chairs or stools will be a better choice. If you want a multipurpose space, then opt for stackable seating that you can store out of the way when not in use.

Climate Control

Once you have your seating in place, it’s disappointing if you can only use your deck or patio at certain times of the day or year, because it’s either too hot or too cold. In summer, a patio umbrella for shade and a fan or misting system can change your space from an oven into a temperate oasis. When the weather is cooler, an electric or gas patio heater and a lap blanket or two, will keep things cozy and comfortable.

A Mobile Mini Bar

Become the host with the most, with the addition of a bar or serving cart to your patio to elevate the space from fun to fantastic. Now, instead of running back and forth to your kitchen, you have a spot to keep your beverages and snacks chilled and close at hand. You can go fancy with an electric unit like the MoBar 550S that incorporates refrigerated storage for beverages and ice. Or keep it more casual and budget-friendly with a more basic bar cart or an elevated rolling cooler.

Finishing Touches

To complete the transformation of your balcony or patio, add some pretty potted flowers or greenery for pops of color, or add some potted herbs that look and smell great, and can be used in your cooking or cocktails. Plants can also be used to create a privacy screen between you and your neighbors, if needed. And depending on the lighting that’s integrated into your space, solar or plug-in string lights can help illuminate the area at night, and make it feel more festive and inviting.

Make the most of your revamped space and all the extra room you’ll have to enjoy, and for more lifestyle and decorating ideas, take a look at other posts on the Odyssey Lake blog.