It’s hard to believe that this is the same patio I showed you just a couple of weeks ago in this post “Smart Ideas for Your Small Apartment Balcony.” Look what I achieved with a little planning and lots of creativity.

[box]Notice my usage of the words balcony and patio. What is the difference? A patio is a concrete surface located on the ground floor of a building. A balcony, on the other hand, is located on the second and higher floors. The advice in this post is applicable for both. [/box] My first piece of advice for anyone looking to tackle a patio design challenge is to make a wish list, then edit it based on what the HOA allows in your community. Here, we were not allowed install drapery or pierce any part of the exterior. The white storage door posed another challenge, but the homeowner reassured me blocking it was not a problem. It’s a space she only accesses twice per year.

Her wish list simply included a place to enjoy dining al fresco or curl up to read a good book. She also asked that the exterior be an extension of her beautiful interior. I believe the end result exceeded her expectations.

When designing your outdoor space, look to include items that bring big impact like this vibrant scroll rug. Feel free to shop various retailers, online and in store, to pull together a look that best fits your design aesthetic. Items here range from Horchow.com to Room and Board to Lowe’s.To create warmth, include items that you would use indoors as well as items that have patina and charm like the candle sticks and stone urn. Here’s one last look at the before and after:

Need assistance with your outdoor space, email me at info(at)erikaward(dot)(com) or if you are in the Metro Atlanta area contact me at (404) 507-6110. Let me help you enjoy the great outdoors!