I Revamped My Patio—With Chic Floor Cushions and Rattan Lanterns—For Under $300

Recently, I realized our outdoor area leaves much to be desired. We live in a city, which means we’re lucky to have any outdoor space at all, but as far as urban balconies go, it’s pretty bare bones in the character department. 

We have the basics: a full dining set, two storage boxes, an extra chair, a plant stand, and an outdoor umbrella… but that’s it. It’s basically a lot of big pieces, but no smaller, added decor items. Even our plant stand is empty and sad. 

So, I decided to set myself up with a challenge. I set out to see what $300 would get me in outdoor accent pieces, so I can finally spruce up our terrace and make it feel more like home.

In the end, I came in just close to budget at $321. This was excellent news because there was one item on the list I knew I’d want two of—and it brought me up to $336.

Read on to find out what I acquired...still under budget, with room to spare.

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Terrain Colorful Glass Oil Lamp

As mentioned, our outdoor space is really an oversized balcony. This means we can’t safely have any sort of fire features out there—barbecue included. I love a candle, and these glass oil lamps are different enough to feel special. 

Terrain Stargazer Party + Path Stakes, Set of 20

Yes, these stakes are technically made to line paths. But we can’t really string overhead lights around our balcony because of how it’s set up, and I think stakes in planters could actually be the perfect solution. 

Toole Bamboo Planter Pots on Tripod Stands, Indoor and Outdoor Set

One of the biggest things we need more of it plant life. We had a few containers that moved with us from our last flat, where we actually did have a sizeable garden, but they’re oversized and out of place now. These bamboo tripod stands in varying sizes are exactly what we need. 

Folkulture Throw Pillow Covers - Set of 2

Our outdoor sofa and dining bench both have seat cushions, but some decorative throw pillows are an absolute must this year. I love the scalloped edge on these, as well as the variety of colors. 

Winbattle Citronella Candles in Coarse Pottery Container

As mentioned, candles are a definite must for us when we’re sitting outside—especially when keeping the bugs away. I love this pottery container for a well-placed citronella candle. 

Collections Etc Colorful Retro Style Aluminum Rainbow Tumblers

While melamine is great for outdoor dining, I hate how quickly the cups can warm in the sun. Plus, why are they always undersized? These aluminum tumblers are a fun array of colors and a great size. 

Better Homes & Gardens All-in-One Serving Caddy

Our terrace is, unfortunately, not even remotely connected to the kitchen. In fact, it’s kind of an awkward hike. Anything to make it easier to carry things to and fro are welcome, and I love this easy, all-in-one serving caddy. 

Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia 1L Accented Metal Watering Can Brass Finish

When you’re dealing with a small space, everything that’s on display has to double as decor. I absolutely adore this brass-finished watering can, and can picture the perfect spot for it on my currently empty plant stand. 

World Market Punched Metal Shade Solar LED Table Lamp

I love an outdoor table lamp, and I love how popular they’ve become in recent years. I actually found this exact version on another site for twice as much, and was delighted it when I spotted it for a mere $15. This is the item I decided I needed to double.

World Market Natural Rattan Solar LED Floor Lantern

On my quest for outdoor lighting, I found these stunning floor lanterns. I’m not sure they’ll fit in our limited floor space, but I do think they’d be perfect for atop our storage boxes when not in use as extra seating. 

World Market Cabana Stripe Reversible Indoor Outdoor Rug

I love a bold stripe for an outdoor area, and this outdoor rug is pure perfection. It’s also reversible, and I love the classic navy. 

World Market Muted Multi Stripe Indoor Outdoor Floor Cushion

This item falls under a surprising splurge. Outdoor floor cushions popped up as a seasonal must-have on a few different sites, and the more I saw them, the more I realized how great they would be. While my self-imposed budget doesn’t allow for more than one for now, it’s definitely on my list to get more next time.