A budget-friendly patio update

Where has this covered inttio BEEN all my life?

With just a little bit of work and time, it’s easily become one of our favorite spots at the barn. It gets really really hot on the deck, so this covered patio under the barn deck is the best place to catch a cool breeze. While it’s certainly not perfect or fancy, it’s become a great space with very little (financial) investment.

You  may remember how it looked before. Even after we finished the deck and the majority of the barn painting, it looked sad and forsaken.

Here’s a full view now. For us, living in the country means serious outdoor living. We spend a lot of time outside. So I’m thrilled that it looks like someone cares now. Because someone does.

We started by adding a bunch of mulch. This was a budget friendly way to keep from having to mow. (Although the weeds are insane.)

Then we added the DIY window boxes, grain bin wall planters and the fish basket hanging basket.

I finally got my act together and painted the big barn door and trim in the same Behr color as the barn. It’s Behr Solid Color Weatherproofing All-In-One Wood Stain and Sealer. (And added a little rural art.) I painted these Adirondack chairs last year (they originally belonged to Ryan’s parents). Bringing those chairs under the deck with the old fire pit (which I’m pretty sure also came from Ryan’s parents) made the perfect little spot to relax. (I already had all the pillows.)

Finally, I decided that the braces needed to be painted white to blend it. I can’t get over how much better it looks with the white deck braces. It’s amazing how such a small thing can really pull it together.

I’m so happy with how this space turned out – and I love that we were able to use so much of what we already had. The only things I purchased were the mulch, grain bins, wood for the window boxes and plants. We used leftover paint, existing furniture and pillows and our brains.

Who wants to come over to hang out with me? I’ll be here – with wine.

Psst: Speaking of wine, I’m sharing a really fun upcycled wine bar over at Protea’s blog. It’s perfect for outdoor entertaining.