Yes, it’s back-to-school season, AND there’s still plenty of time to enjoy your outdoor space.
Give it a thrifty makeover with Goodwill finds that are great for your budget while offering form and function.
Follow these five steps to ensure a transformation that will have you smiling and hopeful for an awesome Autumn.
If I can create a lovely outdoor space upcycled with items picked at Goodwill, you can, too.
Here’s how:
Step 1: Create a clean canvas
How does your outdoor space look after a summer full of other activities and travel time? The space for this DIY project was neglected and became overgrown, so the first step was to cut, clean, and clear.
In a short time, a blank canvas was created. In addition to trimming plants and tossing items, you might also consider hosing down your space to remove dirt and debris.
Give your space a fresh look by making sure it is truly refreshed!
Step 2: Lay a foundation
Whether transforming your deck, porch, patio, or even an inside area, an important first step is getting a great rug. A rug will help anchor the space and be a great foundation for building.
If possible, pick up a rug that is a notch or two bigger than you think you’ll need. Place it in the center of your space to help define it.
The rug I scored was light in color and featured a palm leaf motif. It was the perfect size for outdoor use, so I put it in my shopping cart!
Step 3: Arrange with intention
Now comes placement time for your furniture pieces.
Consider creating conversation areas, so place your love seat/benches/chairs in spots that make it easy for folks to sit and chat. You want your space to feel welcoming and conducive to a friendly level of intimacy.
Add coffee/side tables to allow family and guests to set their coffee mugs or wine glasses on them within easy reach.
Allow space to set a tray with snacks and other treats.
Expert Tip:
Ideally, you want your furniture items on or touching the rug; hence, the recommendation is to select a rug with some wiggle room, size-wise. It looks awkward to have a small rug with the pieces placed around it and not on or touching it.
Step 4: Use color to connect
As you shop for your good at Goodwill, pick up items that are matching or complementary in color. For this arbor transformation, the decorative items, pillows, and tablecloths were in shades of blue, teal, and green. Also, furniture items, art pieces, and curtains in white were purchased because this base tone connected them with the overall look and feel.
What colors do you love? Of course, find and select items in those shades to ensure your transformation will make you happy.
Step 5: Add art & accessories
The final step to make your outdoor transformation sing is adding interesting art and accessories. Yes, even an outdoor space should have art displayed wherever possible. Since there were no real walls around most of the arbor, a carved wood art piece was hung with wire and positioned behind the loveseat to give the space a nice focal point. The carving allowed light to shine through it, giving it a lighter-weight look.
Cheerful, colorful lanterns were also hung up with wire and at varying heights to add visual interest.
A bird statue, glass vase, potted orchid, and birdhouse were among the decorative items that added charm and whimsy—and conversation pieces—to the space. Their colors and pretty designs made them the icing on the upcycling cake!
Design Idea
To help frame the space, white curtains were secured to the top of the arbor and along the back. They added some lightness to the space and a flowing feel as breezes gently moved them. To follow this suggestion, consider picking up curtains, fabric tablecloths, or top sheets.
Now that your outdoor space is transformed, colorful, and inviting, grab a good book and get comfortable. Or invite a friend over to share a cool drink and easy conversation. You’ll appreciate the fruits of your DIY talents for many days—and nights—to come!
Similar Reads:
- How to Repurpose Goodwill Finds & Make Festive Outdoor Decor
- DIY Project: Transform a Disaster Deck Into an Outdoor Oasis
- Light Up Your Outdoor Space with Style
Tim Kime
Artist, Motivational Speaker, Life Coach
