Hey friends, Ashley here! If you’re looking to turn your small patio into a dreamy retreat without spending a fortune, you’re in the right place—these are my favorite thrifty tips from years of gardening and outdoor makeovers. 1. DIY Pallet Furniture for Instant Charm Charming DIY pallet bench: cozy, budget-friendly patio style. One of my favorite hacks? Building pallet benches or tables—they’re sturdy, rustic, and practically free if you can find pallets. I love painting…

Nothing beats unwinding on your deck, but let’s be honest—too much sun or a sudden downpour can really cramp your style. Here are my absolute favorite roof over deck ideas that bring comfort, character, and that irresistible wow-factor to any outdoor space! 1. Classic Pergola with Climbing Vines A timeless pergola adorned with climbing vines—pure, handcrafted charm for your outdoor retreat. I adore a pergola draped in climbing vines—it’s classic, super charming, and lets dappled…

The space under your deck is like an unused chessboard—full of untapped potential, just waiting for the right move. Let me show you how to turn that overlooked area into a personal retreat or a gathering spot that feels like an extension of your home. 1. Serene Outdoor Lounge A serene under deck lounge with soft seating and gentle lighting offers the perfect escape from daily routines. I love transforming under deck spaces into cozy…

Turning your apartment patio into a dreamy getaway is way easier than you might think. Let me show you some of my favorite ideas that have helped me and my clients bring even the smallest outdoor spaces to life. 1. Create a Cozy Lounge Zone Transform your patio into a serene retreat with a cozy lounge chair and simple, beautiful details. Start with a pair of comfy chairs or a loveseat, topped with plush cushions…

A well-designed covered deck is the ultimate bridge between home and nature—offering shelter, beauty, and endless possibilities for relaxation or gathering. Over the years, I’ve found that the right cover transforms even the simplest deck into a strategic extension of your living space. 1. Solid Wood Roof for Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow Seamless indoor-outdoor living starts with a solid wood roof. A classic solid wood roof anchors a deck, making it feel like a true room…

If you’re dreaming of transforming your backyard into a cozy getaway, a stone patio is the perfect place to start. Let me show you some of my favorite stone patio ideas—each one tested (and loved!) in my own outdoor projects here in Austin. 1. Flagstone Circle for Conversation Gather around natural beauty—a flagstone circle made for heartfelt conversations. A circular flagstone patio is my go-to for sparking those deep chats with friends—nothing brings people together…

There’s nothing like gathering outside and letting the savory scent of the grill set the mood for a perfect day. Whether you’re a grilling newbie or a seasoned flame-tamer, I’ve rounded up my favorite grill ideas to turn any backyard into an instant hangout spot. 1. Go All-In on Grilled Skewers Savor the art of grilling: a simple, stunning skewer masterpiece. Whenever I’m stumped on what to serve, I reach for colorful skewers—think juicy chicken,…

If you’re dreaming of a patio that’s both gorgeous and low-maintenance, stamped concrete might be your new best friend. Let’s sip some coffee together and explore my favorite stamped concrete patio ideas to inspire your own outdoor haven! 1. Classic Ashlar Slate Pattern Timeless ashlar slate: where natural beauty meets classic craftsmanship. I always find the ashlar slate pattern brings a timeless, sophisticated vibe to any patio—it’s like having the elegance of cut stone without…

Transforming a small patio into a dreamy retreat is one of my favorite challenges—it’s all about making the most of what you’ve got. Let me share some of my tried-and-true small patio design ideas that always wow my clients and friends. 1. Cozy Up with a Corner Banquette Transform your patio corner into a cozy retreat with a handcrafted wooden banquette. A built-in corner banquette can turn any unused patio corner into a snug seating…

Transforming your deck doesn’t have to drain your wallet—I’ve seen firsthand how a little strategy can create magic on a budget. Here are my favorite, tried-and-true cheap deck railing ideas that bring beauty and safety without breaking the bank. 1. Classic Pressure-Treated Wood Railings Timeless simplicity: pressure-treated wood railing for a classic deck look. Nothing beats the warmth and affordability of pressure-treated wood railings—I’ve used them countless times to achieve a timeless look for less.…