Your patio, deck, back porch or lanai can be a useful and enjoyable area of your 'extended' home. And, why not? Whether you live in a climate that allows for limited use or year round function, the patio is an area that you really don't want to go to waste, particularly if you live a climate that remains warm enough for year round use.

So how do you go about addressing the patio decorating project? There are some questions that you need to answer that will help you define and refine how to proceed.

First, what is the size of your patio? (we'll use the term patio as a generic). Take the exact measurements so you won't be unpleasantly surprised down the road when the furniture you purchased doesn't fit the space!

Is your area open, covered or enclosed? This will affect how you go about your patio decor project.

Second, what types of activities do you want to be able to do on the patio? The patio decorating that you will ultimately create should reflect your lifestyle. If you love to barbecue and have friends over, you want to make sure and allocate space to the actual BBQ unit as well as seating for your family and guests. Be realistic and make sure that your desired activities will fit into the space you have available.

Now that you know how much space you have to work with and a realistic idea of the function, take a quick peek at the budget and see what you are working with. It always helps to know how much you can (or can't) spend on a home decor project, and patio decorating is no different!

And, knowing your budget in advance is also an indication of where to shop. Higher end patio furniture store, budget minded department store or a source such as a flea market or craigslist.com...put a plan together!

Okay, you have the planning part of the patio decorating project under your belt, so now it's time to think about the actual decor. The patio is really an extension of your home...what is your decorating style? If you're not sure, read about 'Interior Decorating Styles' and then come back to this page!

For example, if your home is Casual Country, continue that theme with your patio decor. Bench seating, table/chairs, deck chairs, etc...whatever you are searching for, make sure that the style will suit the interior of your home.

If you are unsure, use this 'test' to determine the compatibility: If the piece(s) you are considering were put on the inside of your home would they fit in well from a decor style standpoint? Take the umbrella table and chairs you may be contemplating and imagine this set in your breakfast nook or kitchen area. (Use your imagination!).

Would the colors, finish and overall style fit right in? Then you've made a good choice. Not so much? Then you may want to keep searching!

Keep in mind as you narrow down your selections that these pieces may be exposed to the elements, some more than others depending on your particular situation. But be wise in your choices and ask questions if unsure about durability.

It is absolutely okay to use some fun accessories as part of your patio decorating project. They may be outdoor related, such as a unique planter, barometer/thermometer, etc, small statues that speak to your decor and/or garden theme. Select these items as you would for the interior of your home.

Plants and planters of varying heights and sizes are always a good choice for a patio. You can use these to create a 'wall' of privacy if desired, which is an alternative to an actual fence or wall. If you have flowering plants, make sure that the colors complement the exterior and interior of your home. Potted small trees are a beautiful addition to any patio.

We have some neighbors who love the colors yellow/gold and blue. Their home is painted a light yellow on the exterior. All of the landscaping that flowers is either yellow, gold or white. Sunflowers, real and otherwise, are used in the garden and on the patio (where I live it is a lanai). Their lanai decor includes blue deck chairs, a yellow/blue umbrella table and other white deck furniture.

Everything on the exterior of this home (and probably on the interior as well) is color and style coordinated. It looks great! If this is not your particular style, that's o.k., just remember to be consistent with your use of color and style.

Will your patio have a roof, an arbor (as in the picture shown above, or open to the sky? If there is a roof, will you add screening, or perhaps a fireplace as shown in the picture at the top of the page?

A beautiful area rug that is made for the outdoors can be a focal point of the patio, so if your particular patio is conducive to this type of decor, be sure to check out the possibilities for outdoor rugs & doormats

Create a unique, stylish decor with your patio decorating project and you'll love to spend time there enjoying the beautiful surroundings!

Are you in the planning stages for your outdoor project? Be sure to review these helpful Patio Design Ideas including Garden Fountains

Here are some additional resources for you:

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