You don’t have to go out and buy one of these gigantic amazing sectionals to update your patio or porch for this summer, although if you can swing it, we do love the look!
There are a few easy, not too pricey ways to spruce things ups for the season. The over-arching advice from the pros? Treat your outdoor or porch set up just like you would an indoor room, only outside. Sooooo….
Mix it up with varying finishes and styles. Add in a modern element and finish if your current style is traditional and go the other way, with something classic like wrought iron or wicker if most of your things are modern.
No patio or porch feels complete without someplace for dining al fresco. Even if your family hates dining al fresco, it will make you happy to have it. A small table and a couple of chairs at the very least, for your coffee or your wine.
Likewise, at least one piece of furniture to stretch out and nap or relax. It’s summer after all.
Potted plants, shrubs and trees in pretty containers work wonders. Don’t just go with your basic annuals. Be adventurous with potted herbs and vegetables, even shrubs and trees. Citrus trees like Meyer Lemon bloom continuously and offer a lovely fragrance, plus…the lemons! You can plant out perennials, shrubs and trees in the garden when it cools down in the fall.
Pillows in summery prints and colors should be on your list at least every other year, don’t you think? No quicker way to brighten things up with a whole new look. No need to repurchase the inserts, just pick out some new Sunbrella or outdoor fabrics and have new ones made. Same with cushions.
B.D. JEFFRIES in Morrison Shops
We love the elegant, sleek furniture at BDJ and they way their items work seamlessly with both classic traditional and modern contemporary style. Here are some items we found to spruce up the porch or patio this year:
Industrial Concrete Stools
Handcrafted from solid fiber-reinforced concrete, the Industrial Stool can be used as a seat or a side table in the garden and living room alike. Suitable for indoor or protected outdoor use, this item will develop a unique patina and personality, reflecting the surprising evolutionary nature of its industrial material. Sunbrella Cushions come is multiple colors. Sold separately.
Dimensions: 13.75 x 13.75 x 18.5

The Spencer Chair at BD Jeffries.
Sink deeply and relax into the Spencer Chair which takes its name from a wind-filled sail. The weave was inspired by a vintage technique and is hand-woven by artisans in Vietnam. The grey-washed faux rattan chair sits upon a powder-coated iron base; acacia wood frame. (Not intended for outdoor use.) Perfect for your covered/screened in Porch.
Dimensions 36″L x 40″W x 37.5″H Seat Height: 14″

CLASSIC ATTIC at Park Rd. Back Lot


Tassel table: $36




Red English reproduction mailbox: $325
Black wicker desk: $175, matching chair: $45
FRONT DOOR FABRICS & INTERIORS
Front Door has one of Charlotte’s best selections of both in stock and special order indoor/outdoor fabrics and trims perfect for any and all outdoor areas from sun rooms to open deck areas for use on everything from pillows to chaise lounges to cushions and everything in between!


We also found a new selection of in stock ceramic garden stools perfect for a covered porch or sunroom area. These come in all sorts of color combinations and textures from rustic and mossy to contemporary ombre with high gloss sheen. All are a steal under $100 at only $83.98 each.


We love this porch dining option to tuck in a corner, with this iron bistro table for $228.98 paired with folding bamboo chairs ($98.98 each). Front Door has an assortment of planters (set of 3 for 198.98), china and and other accessory items to go with.

This white chinoiserie bamboo inspired Lilly Pulitzer wing chair at $770.98 paired with a sweet elephant ceramic stool at $190.98 would also make a statment grouping on a covered porch area or sunroom.

ABODE in Southend





WEST ELM CHARLOTTE in Metropolitan



