Whether you have a patio-size space in Zone 4 or a pokey little hangout in Deptford, giving it a spruce-up needn’t cost a fortune. We’ve pulled together some inexpensive (but decidedly stylish) décor, from bistro sets and side tables to cocktail pitchers and throw cushions. While most of these gifts are available on Amazon, we’ve found some options elsewhere, too, for those who like to shop around. We’re confident you’ll find just the thing you’re looking for, but if you have a larger space, we’ve put together a guide to the best décor for patio-size spaces, too.
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A couple of beachy-looking deck chairs make any outdoor space more relaxing.
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Or how about this weather-resistant set, which you can leave out even if the weather takes a turn.
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If a splash seems like wishful thinking given the weather forecast, this zesty paddling pool can double up as a drinks cooler.
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This solar fountain has been a Strategist UK best seller. Editor Ailbhe Malone, who wrote about it as a complement to her back garden, said it turned her space “into a veritable North London Versailles” and described the “burble and gurgle” as “incredibly soothing.” Ailbhe keeps hers in a deep trough, after noticing that a shallow dish had produced insufficient burbling from the fountain, so it would be quite at home on a balcony so long as it gets plenty of sunshine.
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This is similar to the trough Ailbhe uses to house her little fountain.
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String lights are a must for any outdoor space — these ones are solar-powered.
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These cage-like lanterns would also add a nice ambiance.
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This rug, made from plastic fibres, is easy to clean (but looks like it costs twice the price).
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Likewise, these waterproof cushions (which come in a wide range of colours) can be left outside, either as floor cushions or to zhuzh up a love seat.
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If you live on a lower floor, or face another balcony, you might want a privacy screen. This one also acts as a wind barrier (so your plants will thank you).
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When we looked into the best plants for outdoor spaces, our experts told us about everything from ferns to kumquat trees. The most popular recommendation, however, was the humble snake plant. “It’s a great plant to keep on your balcony as it’s known for its tremendous survivability — many people use this plant to create striking borders or hedging,” says Kay Ismail, of Plant Boutique.
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Similarly, there’s a reason the aspidistra is nicknamed the “cast-iron plant” — it can thrive almost anywhere, including your balcony. “It is one of the easiest plants to look after,” says James Folger, founder of plant shop The Stem. While Folger says it can survive a “range” of temperatures, it should be brought in during harsh cold spells typically associated with U.K. winters.
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If you truly can’t keep a plant alive, might we suggest you go faux? This palm would look striking in the corner of your balcony (and won’t suffer when the temperature drops).
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For large spaces, this wooden shelving unit could house your budding herb garden — or even the stuff you need to keep on hand at all times (like a bottle opener, or some shears).
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These hanging planters would also be perfect for a trailing ivy.
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And while these hanging planters (from Amazon’s tasteful basics range) could house plants in a bathroom, we think they’d also look nice hanging outside, too.
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You could use this tray for cocktails, or even arrange some candles on it if you’re on the balcony in the evening.
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And to keep those plants hydrated, we like the long spout of Haws, who have been making watering cans for 130 years.
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If your balcony has no overhead coverage, this parasol (which can clip onto a chair or railing) will provide some much-needed shade.
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A standalone hammock would be perfect for an afternoon snooze.
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Or for something more grownup, these bronze effect birds would be nice among your pots.
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Since patios are often conservative in terms of space, double-duty décor will be a big help. This cooler box has a rattan finish and could even function as a side table.
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Or, for something you can enjoy both on the balcony and on your next camping trip, this sturdy cooler by Stanley comes highly rated on Amazon.
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An inexpensive side table that can accommodate your book club read, a cafetiere, and maybe some SPF, too.
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Bokashi is a bacteria-based type of composting popular in Japan, and is a great way to compost without filling your small space with a hulking compost bin.
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Introduce pollinator insects into your outdoor space with this rest stop, which will attract bees, lacewings, and butterflies.
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This pine table could comfortably hold two glasses of wine and a bowl of olives. It can be easily folded away, too.
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This deck-chair set looks like something from the Conran Shop (and would be great for a laid-back cocktail hour).
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