The Best Backyard Patio Finds to Make Your Outdoors Feel Like a Living Room

(Above) Design by Atelier Akuko, Photography by Timothy Achumba

If you’ve found yourself lingering longer on the patio lately, you’re not alone. More and more people are treating their outdoor spaces as an extension of their homes. And when the weather’s nice, there’s nothing better than making the most of your backyard, patio, or balcony by giving it the living room treatment.

Think soft rugs, cozy lighting, outdoor furniture that’s actually comfortable, and all the little extras that make it feel more like a destination than an afterthought. Whatever you’re working with—a whole backyard or just enough space for a chair and a dream—it can still feel just as pulled-together as your interiors. Bonus points for the natural breeze.

Photography by Mellon Studio

Design by Matilda Goad, Photography by Carlotta Cardana

Start With the Foundation

Every living room needs a solid foundation, and the same applies to outdoor spaces. The easiest way to create structure (and give your setup that cozy, finished look) is by anchoring it with an outdoor rug. From there, build out your seating with pieces that invite you to stay a while. Try to think beyond the standard metal bistro set—modular sofas, cushioned chairs, even daybeds are all fair game.

If you’re working with less square footage, a couple of lounge chairs and a pouf can work just as well. The point is to give your outdoor space the same level of comfort and layout you’d expect inside, with fabrics and materials that can handle a little sun and summer drizzle.

Image via Lulu and Georgia

Photography by Carmel Brantley

Layer the Lighting

The magic of a great outdoor space lies in the mood, and that includes lighting that feels soft and a little glowy. Start with string lights to define the perimeter, then mix in table lanterns, battery-powered sconces, or even solar stake lights tucked into planters.

If you’re really feeling it, a cordless table lamp adds the kind of polish you usually only see indoors. The goal here is to create a great ambiance. You want enough light to keep conversations going after dark, but not so much that it kills the sunset glow. 

Styling by Lisa Rowe, Photography by Christopher Sturman

Add Indoor Touches

This is where things start to get fun. Bringing the indoors out is less about copying your living room and more about stealing its best tricks: layering textures, creating little moments, and making the space feel lived-in. Try adding a couple of small side tables to hold drinks or books, and mix in throw pillows for color and softness. Weather-resistant textiles have come a long way, so you don’t have to sacrifice style for durability.

Design by Michelle Boudreau, Photography by Lance Gerber

(Images Above) Design by Atelier Akuko, Photography by Timothy Achumba

Don’t Forget the Fun Stuff

Once you’ve set the stage, it’s time for the finishing touches. A cooler that doubles as a conversation piece. A Bluetooth speaker that sounds better than your phone propped in a cup. A citronella candle that smells like a fancy perfume instead of bug spray. These extras might not be strictly necessary, but they’re what take your space from practical to dreamy.

If your summer dinner party turns into a late-night hang (as it should), a portable projector makes it easy to cue up a backyard movie. Or if your plans are more solo-lounging, a cozy throw and a place to kick your feet up will do just fine. The beauty of an outdoor living room is that it’s yours to shape, so build in the pieces that make you feel most at home—even if there’s no roof overhead!

Design by Creative Tonic, Photography by Julie Soefer

Design by Leanne Ford, Photography by Erin Kelly

Below, shop the outdoor essentials we’d happily decorate with all summer long.