Transforming your outdoor space into a summer haven doesn’t have to break the bank. With a few savvy purchases, you can create a delightful, playful, and stylish outdoor living area for less than $200. Whether it’s adding pops of color or cozying up the space with a variety of textiles, you can easily and affordably revamp your backyard for the sunny season.
Firstly, we’ll start with a personal favorite of many homeowners, outdoor carpets. An affordable, weather-resistant outdoor rug, like the JONILL Outdoor Rug ($37, Amazon), can dramatically elevate your outdoor space’s aesthetic appeal. It pairs well with various outdoor furniture and adds a touch of comfort to your patio or deck.
Next up: throw pillows. Besides comfort, throw pillows bring color, vibrancy, and fun prints to your outdoor space. The KEYNOTES Geometric Outdoor Pillows ($37 for two, Amazon) is an affordable option that incorporates these vivid designs. Their waterproof feature makes them robust enough for outdoor use while maintaining their aesthetic allure.
Outdoor lighting sets the perfect ambiance for some late night summer vibes. No need for expensive fixtures; the GIGALUMI Solar-Powered Path Lights ($22 for eight, Amazon) add just the right amount of sparkle. These lights are solar-powered, eco-friendly, and provide an inviting, warm glow as dusk settles.
The next item on our list is a hammock. Whether hanging from trees or mounted on a free-standing metal frame, hammocks, like Best Choice Products 2-Person Woven Cotton Rope Hammock ($50, Amazon), are summer staples. This woven cotton rope hammock is easy to set up and can hold up to two people, perfect for lounging with a loved one or simply sprawling out with a good book.
You could also consider a decorative accent such as a lantern. A lantern adds a cute yet practical touch fulfilling both the lighting and decorative aspects. We particularly love the IKEA BORRBY Lantern ($15). This lantern is not just decorative but also functional, either when used with a real candle or a solar-powered one.
And finally, what’s a summer scene without a refreshing beverage? Beverage tubs like the BREKX Colt Hammered Stainless Steel Party Beverage Tub ($55, Amazon) not only chill your drinks but also act as decorative features. This particular hammered stainless-steel tub is sleek, sturdy, and its silvery shine adds a touch of class to any garden party.
Now, taking it a notch higher, let’s throw in some intentional and well-positioned wall decors. Pieces like MYGOTO LED String Lights ($30, Amazon) bring a gentle, whimsical touch to your space. The lighting serves dual roles: setting the ambiance and adding to the visual appeal.
As we think about a cozy summer evening out in the backyard, consider adding a fire pit. If the budget is a constraint, you can start with a budget-friendly option like the Kingso Outdoor Fire Pit ($50, Amazon). This aesthetic and compact fire pit can also be shifted indoors, turning those chilly nights into cozy evenings.
It’s also essential to take temperature changes into account. When summer days turn to cooler nights, an Outdoor Heater Cover like that from Duck Covers ($35, Amazon) can protect your investment and prolong your outdoor heater’s lifespan.
Don’t forget the ultimate accessory for lazy summer days: a hammock stand for your hammock. One such affordable option is the Lazy Daze Hammocks Steel Hammock Stand ($80, Amazon). Now you can set up your chosen hammock anywhere—no trees required!
Investing in these items will not only make your patio or backyard summer-ready but also transform it into a stylish outdoor living area. With every object mentioned costing under $200, you can pick and choose what suits your personal style and space, and create your very own oasis of calm and fun. Be it a family get-together or a solo relaxation session, with these simple additions, you’ll be eager to spend every moment outside this summer, enjoying the beautiful outdoor space you’ve created.
