Summer is quickly approaching (I think) and with that comes sunshine, warm weather and the chance to enjoy every second possible outside. My patio is my place to do just that! In Chicago, as in most big cities, I know it is rare to have outdoor space, so I am so thankful for my own little outdoor oasis. My patio was in rough shape when I first moved in to my place a little over 3 years ago. Since then I have put it through a few transformations. My most recent is by far my favorite look  and one that will stick around for quite some time. Take a look at the journey me and my patio have had below.

My first design is pretty, don’t get me wrong. I really enjoyed this fun springy style while I had it, but it was only ever temporary. This furniture was left by the previous tenants so I bought some fun, colorful cushions and pillows to quickly spruce it up. I then carpeted the very ugly cement floor and added a colorful rug. Of course, flowers always add a nice touch. It was great and got me through a summer, but I had a bolder design plan in my head, and when the time came to get new furniture (which was soon, as you can see this was old) I was ready for the change!

No, my porch did not magically turn into a tropical garden, or fancy hotel. From many of my other posts, you know Los Angeles is one of my favorite places on this planet. And one of my favorite places there would have to be The Beverly Hills Hotel. I feel like this hotel is a mix between all of my favorite styles. Classic elegance, tropical and Palm Beach Preppy. You have stripes, you have palms, you have pink. It’s just so beautiful. Anyway, this was my inspiration for patio transformation #2.

First thing I had to do was buy new patio furniture. No more old rickety wicker. My new furniture is from Menards and is perfect. Well, perfect minus those terrible cushions that originally came with it! It’s a great color, easy to clean and holds up well (when covered) over the harsh Chicago winters. For my other materials, I knew I wanted palms (my favorite), pink, stripes and flamingos.

Remember how I wanted an outdoor oasis? Well, I got it for sure! My patio now feels lush, tropical, elegant and comfortable. I love sitting out there all alone reading a magazine, and love it just as much for entertaining a small group of friends. I am lucky to have my own little slice of paradise right out my back door. Now go out there and get your patio ready to go for summer, it will be here before we know it!

Signed with Style,