When the days are shorter and the summer sun becomes softer, you may want to think about making your patio ideal for late summer lounging and gatherings. What takes place when a few special additions could let you enjoy your outdoor space more and make everything feel refreshed? In this article, I will give you ideas on how to decorate your patio to combine fashion with function as summer turns to fall. We’ll explore everything from lightweight curtains to woven textures and cozy layers, so you can enjoy every last warm evening under the open sky.
Refresh Your Patio With Sun-Kissed Color Accents
The late summer season gives you the perfect chance to highlight warm and inviting colors on your patio. I often begin with shades that look like a setting sun, for example, ochre, coral, terracotta and burnt orange. These accents make plain outdoor areas more colorful and increase the charm of plants as the fall approaches. To me, using bright colors is a small way to observe the season and mention the coming of autumn.
If you want to blend these moods, you could simply change your cushions or put out some outdoor relaxing pillows in sun-themed shades. Place some colorful lightweight table runners or woven placemats next to your food to add some color and bring the look of the table together. A ceramic vase or lantern that’s colored gold can give the room a fresh and lively feeling. It’s through using color that one creates a move away from bright summer colors and welcomes the cooler tones of fall.
I have noticed that this approach works really well in outdoor lounge areas. I put some clay-colored cushions and a plant stand in terra cotta on my gray patio furniture last August and it changed the mood of the area instantly. Based on Better Homes & Gardens, updating your outdoor decor with seasonal colors is one of the best and simplest ways to ensure it remains fresh.
Sometimes, adding orange or peaches in bowls is great—the fruit is Sexy looking and also it will be good for you. In addition, I recommend using a few citronella candles in holders with a pretty glass design as a source of light and to keep away insects.
Embrace Natural Textures With Rattan And Jute
Rattan is the perfect material when it comes to late summer. This fabric is smooth, airy and looks good on its own. I like to use natural materials like rattan and jute to balance out the stronger elements on my patio, especially if there’s metal or concrete. Soft and earthy colors from textiles welcome everyone to gather and celebrate at any time of day.
You could pick out a rattan coffee table, some jute poufs on the floor or place a couple of rattan lanterns around. A hanging rattan chair is perfect for adding a relaxed and carefree atmosphere to a bigger space. Even little features, like jute coasters or placemats and a braided-framed rug, have a strong impact on the style and won’t hurt your budget.
I particularly liked the project when I traded my plastic side table for a used rattan table that I found at a market. It made a big difference in my seating area and all my guests noticed it. The publication advises mixing these materials with white or sand-colored fabrics to achieve a stylish yet easy feel which I share.
If you’re missing that natural warmth, consider adding a woven basket with rolled-up throws or magazines. The fabric achieves a harmonious blend and also feels comfortable to step on.
Layer Outdoor Rugs For Late Summer Warmth
You can also use layering to improve the look of your patio. As night temperatures drop, I prefer to place several rugs on the patio for better appearance and extra coziness underfoot. Having your chairs clustered makes your seating area feel cosy and well-thought-out which suits the late summer weather.
Pick a large rug made from a durable material such as polypropylene to be the base. Last, pick out a southwestern or geometric printed rug, preferably smaller in size, to introduce both pattern and color. I suggest using reds, clay and golden mustard tones since they easily capture the mood of late summer.
In my view, people usually want to stay outside for a longer time if the patio has that inviting vibe. A rug placed over another rug gives extra cushioning between your furniture and the cold ground. Once, I put a flatweave jute rug under a hand-painted vintage rug and that made my patio more stylish in just one step.
Both rug pads and non-slip liners are necessary to avoid slipping. When your area needs extra finishing, using one or two cushions in coordinating colors with the rugs will join everything together and add more comfort.
Create A Cozy Glow With Solar String Lights
Since days are becoming shorter, I try to keep my time on the patio into the night as much as I can. Whenever I want to add cozy lights, solar string lights are my favorite because they’re easy to install. I find it interesting that they have a softening effect on unexciting pergolas and fences.
Let’s add solar-powered Edison bulb lights to pergolas, your balcony or even to tree branches. Pick warm white shades to capture the lovely colors at dusk. When there’s a seating area in your patio, adding string lights hung like a canopy gives it a lovely, warm and useful feel.
Solar lights allowed me to spend longer evenings outside. I didn’t have to worry about running out of electricity or power cords. You can use HGTV’s advice and add path lights or ground stake lanterns to your landscape to give it a more interesting look.
If you’d like to add an extra touch, put up a solar-powered chandelier above your dining table or in your lounge area. It will help next to your dining table and make your evening meals feel more enjoyable.
Add End-Of-Season Throws And Cushions
Make sure you feel comfortable as the daylight disappears and the wind starts blowing. What I like to include in my home is natural lightweight options like cotton or linen. They provide plenty of cozy comfort and also give you a chance to bring out seasonal colors and textures.
Go for patterns and textiles that are soft and faded with a coastal theme, especially during late summer. Try dressing your sofa in colors like dusty rose, clay or pale blue and supplement them with neutral base cushions. Make sure a few extra blankets are put in a basket for guests and don’t forget to restock them regularly in case the weather unexpectedly gets cold.
Typically, I switch between using one or two selection of throws. The Turkish towel blanket is shaped like a blanket, but came from a trip. The second one is a soft waffle-knit blanket in a pleasing shade of sage. These items function well and at the same time make my outdoor furniture stand out.
Both elegance and pleasure can come from having a mix of big floor pillows with smaller ones on top of your cushions. A blanket with fringe edges or tassels will add a fun and texture to the room.
Set Up A Late Summer Candlelight Corner
Nothing creates a relaxed mood like lighting some candles. Having a comforting corner where I can relax with a book and a cool drink is something I really like. As summer ends, I usually decorate this area to stand out on my patio.
You can consider adding pillar candles, tealights and hurricane lanterns to your home. Stack similar vases on a tray or tabletop and make them interesting by changing the heights. You can use glass cloches or closed lanterns if there is a wind problem. I make sure to mix the real candles with LED ones to stay safe and use them for a long time.
I love putting out citronella candles as they keep insects at bay. A glass hurricane on a wooden stool with sand sits in my room to give me a beachy aura. As recommended by Martha Stewart Living, including shells or stones around candles gives the display a festive look.
Set up this part of the room with a pleasant chair, a fluffy throw and a small pile of books. It’s sometimes hard to have a sturdy, weatherproof table like a reclaimed wood side table which would add both style and usefulness to your outdoor space.
Decorate With Dried Grasses And Wildflowers
It’s possible to enjoy floral arrangements in other seasons too. You can use dried grasses and wildflowers to decorate your patio and enjoy their style even in late summer. Thanks to their soft colors and natural shapes, they appear highly stylish in outdoor spaces.
Try putting pampas grass, bunny tails or goldenrod inside stoneware or ceramic vases. Arrange them either on your patio’s table, side tables or on your window ledges. To add a bit of color, try putting dried lavender or strawflowers in the mix. These flowers stay strong over weeks and still remain fresh in different temperatures.
I have placed bunches of dried stems in old-fashioned pitchers and earthen jugs on my patio which combines style with comfort. According to Domino, dried blooms add interest and visual appeal to your design without being too complicated.
Any additional accessories should include woven wall shelving or a crate for the extra flowers, to make the room even more attractive. By placing a small mirror behind the display, the light is reflected and it makes the makeup look fuller.
Mix Earthy Tones With Sunset Shades
Adding toned-down earthy colors with sun-colored shades is a great way to design a bohemian patio theme in late summer. Blending these colors is like watching the warmth changes in the sky go from deep terracottas, soft browns, dusky rose and golden yellows. The colors are both peaceful and bright which makes the room cozy for daytime and also attractive for evening gatherings.
Earthy neutrals like taupe or sand on the cushions provide a solid base and then I let colorful home accents add more interest. You can use orange-colored ceramic containers, orange throw pillows and baskets made from woven material. A hand-painted sunset mural or wall accent on top of your garage door can give additional style to a tiled or concrete patio.
This mixture of colors is very comforting and homely. My patio design includes terra cotta planters and a faded clay rug on the deck which greatly complement each other. Veranda Magazine observes that including natural colors in the space helps it stay connected to its surroundings.
I also think small, pretty copper or brass lanterns or candleholders would fit in well too. The reflection of sunset light by these metals helps to unite all the colors and gives everything a mysterious look.
Style An Outdoor Bar Cart For Warm Evenings
In the summer, having your outdoor bar cart prepared means you can serve guests with ease in style. A mobile bar is great because it can hold glassware, candles and even keep a chilled bottle of wine. It can be used and also add style to your space.
I recommend getting a cart with several shelves, as metal ones with wooden or rattan panels are suitable for your garden or patio. Magazines suggest placing the ice bucket, the cocktail shaker and a tray of glasses on the top shelf. The second shelf is an ideal spot for mixers, fresh mint or rosemary and napkins in late summer-themed colors. To add a nice touch, place a little bouquet of flowers or some battery-powered sparkling lights in the cart.
For me, the place brings people together without any effort. Styling a bar cart for a dinner during the end of summer with a pitcher of sangria and peaches made everyone interested to gather around it. The website suggests replacing the cart’s accessories with similar-colored glassware and seasonal fruits to match its decor and be useful.
At this point, I’d recommend a small table or plant stand that would be handy for added things or greenery. A rack placed on the wall and designed to hang wine glasses would help to attach it and make it easier for customers to pick up their glasses.
Use Lightweight Curtains For Breezy Shade
Having a covered, shaded spot on your patio lets you use it comfortably in any temperature. I usually use insulated outdoor curtains to accomplish this. They help you stay shaded and at the same time bring a cool, classy appearance ideal for the season.
Pick sheer or linen panels that come in off-white, sand or light versions of blush. Put up the curtains on rods you mount to your pergola, balcony or simply use them with tension wire across your trees. As they pick up the wind, they add an easy-going, coastal resort atmosphere to the patio.
I used off-white curtains that I had to divide my living space into a seating area. The partitions gave us enough cover from the sun, but they did not block the view. Architectural Digest recommends using curtains to style a patio just like an outdoor living room which is a tip I’ve seen works well in making it more cozy and beautiful.
You could easily fix any missing element by setting up a simple hook or clasp that holds the curtains together in stormy weather. For an extra detail, you can hang a tiny bell or charm at the end of your dress to make the breeze playful.
Incorporate Boho Lanterns For Ambient Lighting
Placing boho lanterns on your patio easily gives it a fun and cozy feel. They perform two roles, giving light and adding aesthetic appeal to a room. When shopping for lanterns, I prefer those with both cut-out metal patterns and woven rattan frames so that they create shadows to look at in the dark.
You could bring personal style to your event by grouping lanterns of different sizes on the ground, on tabletops or by hanging them up. Arrange some scented candles along with battery-powered candles to enjoy both types of light. Matte black, brass and natural fibers are good finishes to match the decor you have.
Using three different size lanterns grouped at the edge of my seating made the atmosphere at night look especially cozy. It’s clear from Dwell magazine that lanterns can help define a space with very little effort and I think this is correct.
Completing this part, I would suggest including a stool or plant stand to spotlight one of the lanterns. By changing the flower heights, light can spread out evenly and make the display look more interesting.
Add Woven Wall Hangings To Patio Backdrops
Don’t leave out your patio walls or fence, since they complement your chairs or sofas. Having woven wall hangings gives me a creative way to decorate plain walls. You can enjoy comfortable indoor feelings while being outside.
Choose macrame, weavings or rattan style works that are resistant to different weather conditions and pick them in earthy or warm tones. One big work can grab attention, but several smaller pieces displayed alongside each other work well too. If you’re hesitant to drill into fencing, command hooks or temporary adhesive strips work perfectly well.
One time, I put up a neutral macrame above a bench and hung pot plants from it—the area looked purposeful and nicely designed right away. According to Apartment Therapy, you can use wall decorations outdoors to break up hard spots and make the space prettier.
To complete the setup, a bit of fairy lights strung above or a few tiny trailing plants beneath the wall art would help pull the design together.
Display Potted Herbs And Late Bloomers
Adding herb plants and flowers that bloom late in the summer to your patio will make the area look fresh, colorful and sometimes fragrant. I usually grow herbs in small ceramic pots because they make pretty decorations and also aid my cooking.
Rosemary, basil and thyme can be used since they are great herbs for late summer. Pick a mix of zinnias, marigolds or late-summer roses and place them in terracotta or galvanized steel containers. Organize the pots by how they look or how big they are and set them in your dining or sitting area, so you can savor their fragrance and appearance.
It seems that arranging plants on a tiered stand with both herbs and flowers helps saves space and adds a beautiful focal point. Sunset Magazine suggests using ornamental grasses together with herbs to bring more nature to your decor.
To finish the scene, I could put in a small potting table or rustic bench so there’s a place for extra tools, plant food or extra containers. Having a watering can in a bright, bold color can brighten your garden and also serve its purpose.
Set Up A Hammock For Laid-Back Lounging
A hammock break is one of the best ways to signify the end of the summer season. This addition creates a peaceful area no matter whether you are relaxing inside it or using it for reading, napping or enjoying the fresh breeze. Hammocks made with soft cotton and decorated by subtle stitching or fringe are the ones I always suggest.
Mount it between two robust trees or you could try using a free-standing frame instead. Set an outdoor rug beneath your seating, add a small table for refreshments nearby and use earth tone or soft coral-colored cushions for extra comfort. Use string lights from above or nearby to help use the area until the end of the evening.
I placed a cream-colored hammock with tassels in the shade of my patio last year and it soon became the favorite spot for everyone at home. Real Simple’s suggestion is to set up a hammock beside plants that are flowering for a more soothing atmosphere.
An additional point: placing two all-weather pillows in fade-resistant fabric. A colorful canopy made of a light fabric can help make the outdoor area more enjoyable and attractive when lounging.
Use Floor Pillows For Casual Seating
Having floor pillows on your patio helps make things more comfortable and inviting. I have used them to give patio furniture a more comfortable vibe so that people enjoy staying put. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or having a solo wind-down evening, these pillows add a cozy layer of softness to wooden decks or stone pavers.
For a late summer look, I suggest picking out big floor pillows resistant to moisture and in earthy colors. Woven linen, outdoor cotton and blends of jute are materials that can survive light moisture and stay in shape. A group of three to five in different sizes next to low seating or a fire pit can form a personal conversation spot.
Floor pillows look and feel nice when they are placed on top of an outdoor rug. Like Better Homes & Gardens suggests, adding more textures to make several sitting areas can work best. I enjoy placing bohemian or geometrical items in the room to add something eye-catching without ruining the overall look.
Another good idea is to place a big jute rug near the floor and string globe lights above to make everything more relaxing. Having a couple of scatter cushions where the chairs are would help unify everything.
Opt For Low Tables And Outdoor Ottomans
Low tables and outdoor ottomans are essential for creating a lounge-style patio that’s both functional and chic. Often, I rely on them to fix seats in place and enable additional flexibility, because you can sit on them, lower your feet or use them as a side table. They’re perfect for fostering a relaxed, late summer vibe.
Go for wooden or metal tables with a low-profile frame that looks either rustic or simple. I opt for wicker or rattan ottomans with them since they add a soft touch to the look. Surrounding a low rectangular table with two poufs and a loveseat turns the space into a comfortable area for snacking or having wine.
To me, this pairing makes a room appear modern and relaxing at the same time. Real Simple usually suggests these trends when discussing how to host guests as the seasons change. Sofa seating isn’t as planned out as a dinner set, but it helps organize the area.
To go a step further, I would place a tray filled with candle lanterns or a bowl of fresh fruit to add more color and a fresh smell.
Hang Macrame Planters For A Natural Vibe
Planters tied using macrame bring interest to corners and walls on your patio. These lanterns are special to me since they offer a unique touch to any type of décor. They’re perfectly suited for late summer, since people want a laid-back setting at that time of year.
You should try hanging several macrame holders with pots that are made from ceramic or terracotta. Pick trailing plants such as pothos, string of pearls or English ivy to achieve the winding and continuous effect you want. Attach the lights from wooden beams, tree branches or along a pergola edge to keep the lights crisp.
In my home, I mix glazed cotton tones such as cream, sand and muted taupe and every now and then include some colorful yarn to spice things up a bit. Often, Domino Magazine includes macrame as a prime texture to add to minimalist outdoor furniture.
For a perfect touch, put some wind chimes nearby to blend their soft music with the movement, for a more relaxed space.
Style With Terracotta Pots And Planters
Late summer is the perfect time to use terracotta pieces which give a warm and earthy feel to your patio. Using pots of various sizes gives me a chance to design a Mediterranean or desert atmosphere. They’re budget-friendly and develop character as they age, which enhances their rustic charm.
Put three or more plants in the room by a seating area or near the entranceway. Choose large terracotta planters for citrus trees and rosemary, medium ones for lavender or grasses and settle for the smallest ones for succulents. All these layers add a tidy and authentic feel to the patio easily.
The combination of terracotta pots, rattan furniture and stone or concrete looks really good to me. Elle Decor pays attention to the idea that terracotta complements the glossy look of steel or glass when used in patio areas.
To make this space better, I suggest decorating the background with a neutral-toned outdoor tapestry or big leafy plants.
Introduce Bamboo Accents For Texture
Using bamboo around your patio will add texture and touch of the tropics. I prefer it since it looks clean and warm at the same time, goes well with plants and natural fabrics and always looks nice. Terracotta, white cushions and natural stone go nicely with bamboo due to its light tan color.
A bamboo screen is a useful option for barricading the corner of your lounge or for more privacy on small patios. Using bamboo trays on tables, as windbreaks or as lightweight armchairs is a good idea too. Added details raise the beauty of the space without turning it into a tropical paradise.
I have made use of bamboo in several of my personal coastal and boho-style patio designs. HGTV uses bamboo a lot, especially when talking about small outdoor areas that need to appear light and airy.
You can complete this look well by using bamboo pieces with cotton seat cushions and ceramic side tables.
Arrange A Fire Pit Area For Crisp Evenings
Having a fire pit is a simple and beautiful thing to add as the evenings get cooler. A backyard seems to make people gather and share stories. It turns the patio into a relaxing setting for late summer days.
You might want to select a fire pit that runs on propane or doesn’t produce smoke and that has a bowl made of concrete or black metal. Put comfy seats around it, like adirondack chairs, those with cushions or bright rattan loungers. Place the firewood in a metal rack close to where it is used to make everything look cleaner and more convenient.
We added a fire pit for one of our clients and it is being used quickly on both weekends and weekdays. Fire features are now considered vital parts of outdoor design when designing outdoor areas, as Architectural Digest points out.
I would suggest placing soft blankets in baskets and placing twinkle lights over the area to make the atmosphere more relaxing at dusk.
Incorporate Late Summer Fruits Into Decor
In late summer, I often use peaches, figs and grapes to create decor that lasts for just a while but still looks amazing. Flowers fill your garden with color, smell and remind you of the current harvest. This is a little saying about how end-of-summer patio friends gather.
Put a tray or a platter made from wood or ceramics into the middle of your outdoor table or coffee table. Choose ripe fruits to add and add some sprigs of eucalyptus or rosemary here and there. Set up a little fruit garland or put some baskets with small fruits on nearby side tables.
To me, fresh fruit in my own home looks uplifting and gives an elegant touch. Martha Stewart Living includes fruit as both something to look at and also to eat. It comes across as legitimate and ensures guests recognize the place’s attention to seasons.
Another way to improve this area is to set out matching ceramic coasters or dishes nearby and dress them up with colored linen napkins in warm colors.
Add Wicker Storage Baskets For Functionality
If you want a classy and useful storage option on your patio in late summer, wicker baskets are perfect. They blend perfectly with other natural things and give you a place to store blankets, pillows and toys. I generally place them in spots by or near chairs or storage areas because I want every spot to be useful and still look beautiful.
Consider investing in wicker baskets of medium to large size and with handles, because it will be easier to transport them. If you want to store soft materials, get baskets with fabric lining and if you’re keeping things outdoors, choose baskets made from sturdy and tight weaves. Most of the time, I position them below console tables, next to sofas or under open shelves. Adding two or three sizes to your products gives your setup more style and order.
I think wicker baskets are surprisingly one of the best items for any patio setting. They made it simple for me to put away summer throws and extra cushions without making them hard to find. I have discovered that using them is a great way to keep citronella candles or napkins during outdoor dining which Southern Living recommends.
If I were to expand on this idea, I’d bring in some cotton throws, color-coordinated to earthy burnt orange, olive or a soft beige which are handy for warmth and to create a softer feel.
Create A Centerpiece With Outdoor Lanterns
Lanterns placed in the center can make a beautiful and impressive statement outside. They add more height and light above the patio, helping it look more stunning from evening to day. I usually go for tall, medium and short items in a vase so that they don’t seem too prominent around the other objects.
Try picking metal, copper or bamboo lanterns to give your decor a rustic look. Using LED candles or string lights in the glass on the sides creates the best result. Either set them up in the middle of an outdoor eating or coffee table or line them up beside where you plan to sit. Occasionally, I put a small group of pinecones or a few pieces of fruit around where the cake sits.
I believe lanterns can be used in many different ways. They give a nice touch without taking away much area and match almost every patio themes. The Veranda Magazine mentions using lanterns regularly in their suggestions for seasonal home decor.
To improve this area, I’d suggest putting a linen runner or wooden board next to the lantern for a finished and upgraded look.
Use Patio Umbrellas In Seasonal Prints
Opting for patio umbrellas in seasonal patterns allows you to switch your outdoor decor from high summer to its later version. I choose umbrellas partly because they offer shade and also because they connect the colors and patterns in the seating area.
Choose prints with colors that show late summer, for example, terrazzo, mustard, clay, olive green or prints that look faded from flowers. For a natural look, you should choose canvas umbrellas that use wooden poles. If they are above dining chairs or near where you dine, they will filter harmful sun rays and go well with your interiors.
I gave my bedroom a new look just by changing the pattern on the umbrella fabric. House Beautiful suggests replacing your patio umbrella with a new design when each season changes. Using this principle really works well, especially when your chairs have pillows and area rugs of matching colors.
To make the room look finished, you could buy a matching vase or a set of cushions to complement the patterns or hues from the umbrella.
Paint Outdoor Furniture In Muted Hues
The end of summer is an excellent moment to give your patio furniture a fresh coat of earth-toned paint. I believe this way of choosing decor saves money and makes a big difference. It helps you continue using your old furniture as you give your home a more modern and laid-back look.
I think dusty rose, sage green, warm gray and light terracotta are good examples. Such colors are a good fit with nature and they harmonize with the different lighting in August and September. To get a non-shiny finish, choose outdoor chalk or a matte paint.
I have found that turning old wooden chairs and benches into a clay shade can spruce up any tired patio area I’ve tried it on. Better Homes & Gardens suggests using paint as a “soft transition” into fall decor, which aligns perfectly with this concept.
Should I wish to improve this concept, I would dress up the newly painted furniture by using cushions that are textured or stitched in a soft way.
Set A Late Summer Outdoor Dining Scene
How you style your outdoor dining area brings out the best of late summer on your patio. I arrange the environment in a way that looks untamed but still well-thought-out, great for enjoying food in a relaxed atmosphere under the sun. Using special dishes, seating and lighting can turn an average meal into a beautiful festive occasion.
The first option is a table made of wood or wrought iron. Cover your table with a soft linen tablecloth or runner and place colorful ceramic dinner plates on the table, selecting warm tones such as ochre, moss or muted blue. To get a warm, authentic atmosphere, include chairs made from wicker and stools made of wood. At any season, bring some dried grasses or fresh fruit together in a vase to make a centerpiece.
I usually make my outdoor meals a bit more casual than those in restaurants. I am inspired by Sunset Magazine which commonly shows farm-style tables decorated with string lights or pergolas. You should make the area comfortable without having to lose its style.
To complete the room, think about putting up a light above the dining area, as well as using natural chargers or bamboo placemats to add more texture.
Decorate With Vintage-Look Garden Signs
An old-style sign in your garden area will make your patio more attractive. I use them in conversations because they quickly tell a tale and create nostalgia in those listening. They’re perfect for late summer, when the setting starts to feel a bit quieter and more introspective.
Search for signs with metal or distressed wood that have prints of plants, French coffee shops or typical garden scenes. Fix it to a wall, leave it next to a planter or place it on a fence. Since there is not too much room, I place them in small spaces to break the emptiness and organize the layout.
While I like to get decent signs from flea markets, reproductions give similar results. You can often see them in Country Living’s garden magazine during the summertime for making a space that reflects a cozy, inviting cottage-core style.
I’d hang a sign close to a vertical planter or vine trellis to have an even vineyard-like feeling in this area.
Showcase Shells, Stones, And Natural Finds
Shells, river stones and driftwood are perfect for displaying and they blend the coastal and earthy styles I like in late summer. Broken ceramics are neither expensive nor plain; they can become precious to you after finding them during fun travel days.
You can put your collections in bowls, tall glass vases or in wooden trays. Sometimes I place my lanterns beside other accents such as candles or baskets or I keep them near lanterns to create an accent table. A simple zen effect can be achieved by stacking stones along your shelves.
Among them, I was really happy with a cloche containing shells and driftwood next to an olive tree planter. This was much like the guidelines offered by Apartment Therapy, where they propose organizing your space by adding natural objects with backgrounds.
Another option is to put a handwoven mat underneath or have a linen runner to make the textures appear even bolder.
Build A Mini Pergola For Extra Shade
Because the days get warmer in summer and the nights last longer, you really need a covered area on your patio. I notice that adding a small pergola helps a lot, both for shade and to add a special architectural style to the area. Adding a pergola to your patio, without completely enclosing it, delivers structure, blocks too much sun and helps you relax in shaded areas.
If you pick a classic wooden mini pergola with basic lines, it goes well with small, practical sectional seats and neutral-colored, water-resistant pillows. I usually set up a bamboo shade or white curtains by a window to soften the room and offer added shade. When string lights are hung from the beams, the whole area looks magical and relaxed at night.
My choice for decking would be pressure-treated wood or composite, supposing you want your deck to last longer. According to Better Homes & Gardens, setting up a small pergola with helpful hooks or shelves on walls provides shade and you can use them as plant hangers or to secure lanterns too. Homeowners have also installed retractable canopies to have more options and I intend to give them a try during the next season.
To enhance this section, I’d suggest incorporating a small side table or planter box next to your seating to add greenery and visual balance. Having these features will make your covered space more lively and simpler to use.
Add A Water Feature For Serene Atmosphere
A lovely way to make your late summer patio stand out is by putting in a water feature. It’s not just to make your place look pleasant; the soft sound of running water helps turn your backyard into a peaceful retreat. No matter if the fountain is simple or elaborate, it can make your patio feel different.
I prefer having compact fountains that continually recirculate the water they use. Because these planters are offered in stone, ceramic or metal, you can easily include them in any modern patio decor. Usually, I put my aquarium in an area near where people sit and I accent it with some plants and smooth stones. Having enough space, a wall-mounted waterfall can match wonderfully with any dining table or chaise lounge.
From what I have noticed myself, guests enjoy relaxing by water which also leads to pleasant chats and easygoing experiences. House Beautiful pointed out that a small tabletop fountain on a patio can be made more attractive at night with the help of subtle LED lights.
Another good point to add is that solar-powered pumps are sustainable and don’t leave cords visible anywhere. Floating candles or some aquatic plants may help make the feature more attractive.
Mix And Match Patterns On Patio Textiles
When summer is nearly over, it is a great chance to try out different colorful patterns and styles in your outdoor materials. Weaving together assorted prints on your cushions, throws and rugs can refresh your home’s decor when the days become shorter. If you don’t plan to redecorate your current setup, this is the way to bring new life to your room.
You can think about an outdoor area rug in a geometric or plant-based pattern as your base for the arrangement. Add pillows to your sofa with different designs that still work well together such as stripes, tropical prints and simple blocks of color. Navy with coral or burnt orange and teal give a warm and rich look for the last days of summer. Take a lightweight blanket or two, as something made of cotton or acrylic will not fade easily.
From what I have tried, I noticed that choosing only 2 to 3 different shades of color lets the patterns pop without the room getting busy. According to ELLE Decor, including contrast in outdoor textiles makes any space feel more inviting and fun when paired with plain, modern furniture. Using covers that can endure harsh weather conditions will help your clothing look new.
To improve this section, I’d add patterned seat cushions or even a fabric-wrapped planter or tray to tie the whole textile story together. You can use old fabric pieces or bring together different fabrics to make one outfit.
Celebrate The Season With DIY Decor Crafts
Bring extra appeal to your late summer patio by adding some handmade items. I enjoy adding crafts to my decor that are typical for the cozy and playful fall atmosphere. Projects for your patio let you choose your own design which can make the area more inviting to you.
Some things I love are making hand-painted terracotta pots, stenciled lanterns and making wood signs with seasonal quotations. I normally have some craft paint, stencils and twine ready for similar projects. When making something large for the patio such as a bar cart, reclaimed wood gives me the chance to add visual interest and history. Personalizing an umbrella by painting it and putting on fringe or tie-dye is a fun method to express your style.
Most of the time, friends and family want to talk about my personal DIY projects. Besides, this encourages me to change my setup once a year without spending much on it. Architectural Digest points out that specially designed outdoor elements help create a carefully planned space, even from basic materials. I always take this into account when getting ready for late summer get-togethers.
As a final idea for this section, you can create a crafting area with materials so guests or kids have a chance to make something special during the party. It includes fun activities, keeping the place fresh and in tune with seasons.
Even though summer will soon end, your patio has endless opportunities for coziness, fun and visiting friends. Shady pergolas, patterned items and even homemade decorations are great updates that can make you enjoy the last days outside. Has anyone tried these ideas or do you know of any unique ways to make your patio special at the end of summer? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear how you’re making the most of your space this season.
