Transforming Your Backyard Oasis on a Budget
It’s the little things that can make a big difference in refreshing your outdoor living areas. As a homeowner in Aberdeen, UK, I recently embarked on a mission to transform our back patio from a neglected corner to a cozy and inviting outdoor retreat. With a limited budget, I was determined to create an exceptional space that felt like an extension of our home.
Defining the Spaces
The first step in my patio refresh journey was to assess the available space. With a fairly large hot tub already occupying a significant portion, I had to get creative in maximizing the remaining area. My goal was to create two distinct living spaces: a dining area and a casual lounge.
To define these zones, I decided to use outdoor area rugs as the foundation. The placement of these rugs helped me visualize the end result and provided a clear delineation between the two areas.
Budgeting for the Refresh
Budget was a crucial consideration throughout this project. After pricing new patio sets (including a table and six chairs) from big-box stores, I was shocked to find the average cost was around £1,200. Yikes! That simply wasn’t feasible for my backyard refresh.
Determined to stay on budget, I scoured local flea markets, antique stores, thrift shops, and Facebook Marketplace to find the perfect pieces. Patience and persistence paid off, as I was able to source the majority of the furniture and accessories secondhand, resulting in a total project cost well below the average price of a new patio set.
Creating the Dining Space
For the dining area, I found a wooden table and chairs on Facebook Marketplace for just £90. Although it wasn’t intended for outdoor use, I treated the table with a waterproofing product and a coat of polyurethane to help it withstand the elements. The stained wooden top, painted base, and sea grass chairs brought a warm, cozy feel to the outdoor space.
Designing the Lounge Area
To establish the casual lounge space, I repurposed a bench that was previously used at the foot of our bed. Placing it against the side of the house, it provided extra seating and storage. The original cushion was covered in a red and white gingham fabric, which I opted to paint with white chalk paint for a fresh, modern look.
Complementing the bench, I found two gray Adirondack chairs on sale at Target for less than £20 each. Their resin material ensures hassle-free maintenance and all-weather performance. To add even more comfort and coziness, I sourced some adorable outdoor cushions and pillows, also from Target.
Rounding out the lounge area, I discovered a wicker coffee table at a local antique store for just £17. I decided to leave it in its original green color, as the texture and hue perfectly complemented the dining table and chairs.
Accessorizing with Personality
After arranging the main furniture pieces, it was time to infuse the space with personality through carefully selected accessories and décor. The focal point of the lounge area is a stunning chalkboard sign that I found years ago at a used furniture store for £10. With the help of a talented friend, it was transformed into a unique work of art that sets the tone for the entire outdoor space.
Monogrammed black and white towels, a hanging lantern, and an array of pillows on the bench add cozy and inviting touches. To bring a pop of color, we bordered the patio with Knock Out roses and pampas grass, and filled large containers with a variety of vibrant flowers.
Illuminating the Patio
No outdoor oasis is complete without the warm glow of lighting. Since our patio didn’t have a covered area, we had to get creative to incorporate string lights. Using three large containers, a bag of concrete, and some shepherd’s hooks, we were able to anchor the lights above the dining and lounge spaces.
This simple yet impactful project provided the finishing touch to our backyard refresh. The soft, warm white lights create a dreamy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the space well into the evening hours.
Refresh Your Outdoor Living on a Budget
Are you, like me, eager to transform your patio, deck, or porch on a budget? Affordable outdoor living is within reach with a little creativity and resourcefulness. By scouring secondhand sources, repurposing existing items, and DIYing where possible, you can create a stunning outdoor retreat that feels like an extension of your home.
Remember, it’s the little things that can make a big difference. From the placement of area rugs to the careful selection of accessories, every detail can contribute to a cohesive and inviting outdoor space. And don’t be afraid to get creative – sometimes the most unexpected finds can become the centerpiece of your backyard oasis.
Ready to start your own outdoor living area refresh? Head over to ABC Home, your local building and renovation experts in Aberdeen, UK, and let’s get started on transforming your backyard into a true extension of your home.
