#13. Summer Styling

Patios, Terraces, Gardens, Balconies, etc.

Outdoor oasis ideas have totally taken over my brain lately as it’s peak Summer. I feel like I can’t be the only one who’s suddenly obsessed with sprucing up outdoor spaces within the home. Gardening, sweeping, painting, and sourcing affordable yet durable furniture (which is actually hard to come by, why is outdoor furniture so pricey?!), all these things have been my current chores as of late.

I pulled together a few photos from past spaces I’ve worked on—from tiny apartment balconies to front walkouts and backyard dining setups. And honestly, the biggest thing I’ve learned is that small changes really do go a long way. It doesn’t have to be grand, consuming, and expensive—just start with what you have, add a few layers here and there, and let the space evolve. The natural landscape is already contributing to your space so no need to over do it!

Making the most of a narrow balcony with a runner rug and a simple bistro set. I stuck with wood and wicker for the furniture to keep things warm and natural, then added a used shelving unit to display a few outdoor trinkets, vases, and small plants to add pops of colour. Hanging planters over the balcony rails adds depth (and a little privacy), giving you something prettier to look at than just the guardrails. Post sunset-turnover service includes wool blankets, candles, lanterns, and twinkle lights wrapped around the railing — cozy and cute, always.

Spot the same bistro set from above (a nudge to use what you already have!) Opting for low-maintenance plants (cryptogam and botanical plants like ferns and moss) is a less-risky option in terms of longevity. We were bringing the easy-breezy California vibes to this outdoor space. If I had my way, I’d add some terrazzo paving stones and a mini cedar pergola or platform where that old paver is — picture perfect sunset spot.

Next is a little progress series from our current home. My to-do list feels endless, but I’m trying to enjoy the process — and looking back at the before photos reminds me just how far we’ve come. One small but major game changer? Washing the windows. I used this product, Invisible Glass and can’t recommend it enough — zero streaks! One of my friends even commented on how clean the windows were. It’s THAT noticeable.

After the clean-up, I got into paint mode: touching up little spots, giving our off-white bistro table a fresh new colour, and painting the old doors a matte black. I also gave the weathered doorknobs a bit of pizzazz with a coat of gold spray paint — a much cheaper fix than buying new ones. With a little gold left in the can, the mailbox got a matching upgrade too.

Before

After

Now comes the fun part, styling! I’ve been researching perennials that thrive in containers and leaning into cherry, dark green and blue-spruce colours (yes that is an actual Pantone colour).

I’m also on the hunt for a new area mat and thinking about replacing the uneven paving stones by the sliding doors to create a more cohesive and polished look. As always, I’m open to suggestions!

We’re really fortunate to have not just a front yard, but also a backyard and a generous balcony off the primary bedroom. While these outdoor areas are still in progress, there is something effortlessly special about the backyard —thanks to Mother Nature herself. We honestly don’t need to do much more, and that’s kind of the beauty of it.

I genuinely love puttering around outside and slowly improving each corner of these spaces. But I also have to remind myself to pause and simply enjoy them — whether it’s hosting a lunch, having an impromptu cocktail hour in the backyard, or reading a few extra pages with a second cup of coffee on the balcony. Summer is so, so fleeting. Enjoy the progress… and the pauses.

Wishing everyone a weekend of fun!

- Caro