A fresh look that was filled with muted chalky whites and grey

and barely blushing blush accents.

I have found myself gravitating towards simple and light more and more recently. 

From fresh white paint to furniture changes to bringing in texture in place of color. And out on the patio- it was all about that texture and patina when I was putting things together. 

And today I am sharing a few tips on  achieving that same style in your space 

for those of you who have asked.
And a hint- it is easy.

#1. Bring in the texture

The whitewashed wicker- with all those woven details. 

The pillows that look like sisal but are as soft as can be and the blanket from indoors that is perfect for wrapping up with by the fire.

Textures add a sprinkling of charm and interest.

#2. Something with patina

Though this table has been out on the patio before

(read all about the makeover it got HERE) 

 it was swapped out for a few chunky tree stumps recently. 

But the minute I started pulling the pieces together to place on the patio- 

it came back over. 

That patina that it has from being painted and then stripped and weathered a bit- with those detailed carvings and scalloped apron- all together they add a huge amount 

of French cottage charm to this space.

 And the soft light color was absolutely perfect for pairing with those chairs and the rock fireplace.

#3. A pop

A pop of classic black pairs with blush to perfection. 

Plus it keeps the patio from feeling too ‘white’ by adding that contrast.

#4. The rug

There is a story behind that rug. 

You see, I ordered in online and asked my husband stop to pick it up at our local store

 while I was out of town. 

When it arrived, to be honest, I wasn’t sure it would work. 

It wasn’t the color I was thinking-or the pattern really
 and initially, I left it off the patio and started 

to take some test photographs. 

But it was pretty clear-something was missing.

So, I brought the rug out and set everything up again- 

and it was perfect. 

#5 Steer clear from rooms ready to go


Something I learned a long time ago was to avoid buying ‘rooms’ in sets.
Think ‘collected’ rather than ‘ I walked into the store and brought home a living room ‘
 Mix and match the styles and era of the pieces.
Sure it is easier to buy an outdoor seating group with a sofa and 2 chairs
and coffee table and put it on the patio and call it good. B
ut for that cottage charm- you want to bring elements and pieces together
that didn’t naturally start that way.
That thrift store find with the new chairs and pillows
with your grandmothers favorite pitcher to hold the flowers.
Those pieces mixing and mingling tell a story that is charming and interesting.

And finally

#6. Just go with what you love. 

Your patio is part of your home-
so decorate it the way you would decorate your indoor spaces
and decorate it the way that makes you happy.

Whether that is oversized, chunky furniture, vintage metal chairs
or these dainty wicker chairs-

think of your patio as an outdoor living room- go with the look you love
Sprinkle it with personal touches and style
and create something that is comfortable and beautiful

for enjoying all summer long.

You can find the full patio reveal post
HERE
as well as links to the other bloggers who are sharing their refreshed patios as well.

Happy Monday everyone.