Simple Patio Transformation for Spring

How to Get a Resort Feel in Your Own Backyard

We have it so good in California, our amazing weather allows us to live most of the year outside. I have a basic free standing gazabo on my patio and it works great to escape the heat but what if it could look more like a resort destination? Here is a simple way to dress up your basic gazebo and seating area and bring a little of the posh resort feel to your outdoor living space.

Ready for Spring!

This will work for a patio cover with posts or a free standing patio cover/ gazebo. I purchased 8 finished panels for this project from Ikea. Adding 2 panels per post provides the best sun coverage, fullness and gives you the option to draw them closed as well.

Don't concern yourself it the panels are too long, as I did here, I just created a decorative flap that raised the panels to the desired height all by flipping them over the gazebo rail. And don't forget to add tie backs, you can use the ones that come with the panels or add your own more decorative ones.

Here's what I did to get the finished look above & care of your panels.

Install Panels to each corner securing with sewing pins or safety pins. You could even add velcro if desired. Pull together at each corner and add a tie back. It's just that simple. I done this in past years and if you remove the panels during the winter months they should last several seasons. Color and direction of the sun will also play into how long they last. Since these are a brown tweed pattern,  I will rotate the entire gazebo occasionally to keep them looking fresher longer. 

Here's  the before, it took a beating over the winter 

Adding potted plants and accessories makes the space more inviting. The wrought iron chandelier I picked up in Mexico uses real candles making the space glow at night. The coffee table was a second hand store find, $50 including the beveled glass top at ReStore, a super steal! Mixing up pieces creates a more warmer feel and doesn't look like you are sitting in a store showroom. My other wrought iron table and chairs were purchased in Rosarito, Mexico at $25 each. Won't find that sort of deal anywhere in the states.

Don't be afraid to add your own interior pillows or a throw blanket, they are softer and most are prettier than outdoor ones. Invest in good patio furniture covers. Adding an area rug for even more style and softness to the floor be it a wood deck or concrete. So is your patio ready for Spring? Little more planting and I'll be!