Design Tip Monday: The 30-Minute Patio Glow-Up
A quick note before we dive in: I’m an Amazon Associate, which means I may earn a small commission when you shop through the links I share. It doesn’t cost you a penny more, but it helps me keep creating design tips, guides, and inspiration for your home.
There’s something magical about a New England evening in late summer and early fall. The sun sets a little earlier, the air feels cooler, and suddenly the idea of sitting outside with a glass of wine (or a mug of cider—no judgment here) becomes irresistible. But let’s be honest: if your patio is looking a little tired, that dream evening can quickly lose its sparkle.
The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune—or a whole weekend—transforming your outdoor space. With just 30 minutes, a few simple swaps, and the right Amazon finds, your patio can go from “meh” to magazine-worthy. This week’s Design Tip Monday is all about giving your porch or patio a quick, cozy glow-up with string lights, hurricane lanterns, and outdoor pillows.
Let’s dive in.
Step 1: Hang Outdoor String Lights for Instant Ambiance
If I could wave one magic wand over every New England porch, deck, or patio, it would be to string up warm outdoor lights. They’re the fastest way to create mood, coziness, and that “yes, we’re staying out here all night” vibe.
Whether draped over a pergola, zig-zagged across your backyard, or simply strung along the railing, outdoor string lights do the heavy lifting when it comes to curb appeal and comfort. They’re also perfect for New England’s unpredictable weather because today’s best sellers are durable, shatterproof, and weather-resistant.
Top Picks:
Step 2: Add Hurricane Lanterns for Charm + Glow
Hurricane lanterns aren’t just practical—they’re design gold. They add structure to your porch, create a focal point, and give you the warm glow of candlelight without worrying about the wind. Place them on steps, cluster them on your patio table, or line them along your railing for a truly inviting feel.
As an interior designer, I love layering light sources, and hurricane lanterns are the outdoor version of accent lamps indoors. They bring balance, warmth, and style in one simple accessory.
Top Picks:
Step 3: Layer in Outdoor Pillows for Style + Comfort
Finally, let’s talk about softening things up. Outdoor pillows are the quickest way to make your patio look intentional and inviting. Choose fade-resistant, waterproof fabrics so they last through September rain showers and crisp fall nights. Stick to patterns that complement your home’s exterior—think stripes for coastal charm or earthy solids for a farmhouse vibe.
The bonus? They don’t just look great, they actually make your seating more comfortable. Suddenly, that Adirondack chair feels like your new favorite reading spot.
Top Picks:
Bonus Flair: Outdoor Appliances That Make Fall Nights Even Better
If you really want to take your fall patio nights to the next level, consider adding a few outdoor appliances that bring warmth, flavor, and a bit of wow-factor to your gatherings. These are the extras that make neighbors say, “Okay, now that’s living.”
Outdoor Pizza Oven – Nothing beats the smell (and taste) of a wood-fired pizza on a crisp fall night. A pizza oven turns your backyard into an Italian bistro and gives your family a new tradition.
Smokeless Fire Pit – Cozy up without the smoke in your eyes. Perfect for s’mores or just keeping warm under the stars.
Electric Patio Heater – Extend your porch season well into November with a sleek, efficient heater.
Outdoor Beverage Cooler/Cart – Keep cider, seltzers, and wine within arm’s reach while you’re entertaining outside.
Your outdoor space doesn’t have to be perfect to be memorable — it just needs to feel intentional, comfortable, and a little magical. Whether you start with a 30-minute patio glow-up, layer in a few cozy touches like lanterns and pillows, or go all out with a pizza oven and smokeless fire pit, what you’re really creating is a backdrop for connection.
In New England, we know the seasons change fast. One week you’re sipping iced tea, the next you’re wrapping your hands around hot cider. That’s why I always encourage my clients to design their homes — inside and out — for flexibility, ease, and joy.
So this September, instead of letting your porch feel forgotten, treat it like the extra “room” of your home that it is. With the right mix of lighting, texture, and a few key Amazon finds, you’ll have a space that makes fall evenings unforgettable.
And if you ever feel overwhelmed by all the design choices? That’s where I come in. At Melissa Pasdon Interior Design, I help busy families transform their spaces into places they love — without the stress.