A couple of weeks ago, I shared a little update on our backyard patio—and honestly, it felt so good to check that off the list. But, while I was out there making that space feel cute and functional, I couldn’t help but glance over at the front patio and think … wow, we really haven’t done anything over here. Like, not even a cute doormat.
With landscaping plans happening soon, it felt like the right time to finally give this area some attention. It’s the first thing you see as you pull up the driveway, and right now it just doesn’t say “welcome” the way I want it to. So, I pulled together a few simple updates—nothing too fussy, just a handful of pieces to make the front door feel intentional, and a little more special when we greet guests. Here are 9 things I’m eyeing (or already ordered) to get our front deck summer-ready…
A Spot to Sit, Sip, and Stay a While
One thing I really wanted to prioritize for the front deck was a small seating area. Whether it’s morning coffee (the sun rises perfectly out front), waiting for an Uber, or just catching up with someone before heading out, the goal was to foster a space that feels relaxed and easy. A couple of comfy chairs and a small table in between was all it needed. It’s those little touchpoints that make it feel a bit more finished!
Adirondack | House Numbers | Doormat | Firewood Storage | Seagrass Basket | Solar Lighting | Pouf | Planter
Adirondack chairs are a true classic, and I landed on a similar option to these black ones. They feel timeless and grounding, especially against our darker exterior but I also like this option or even this one for a more lounge-y vibe! Then I added some outdoor pillows and you can even add a little side table like this textured one or this concrete one, and now it’s one of our go-to spots in the evenings, especially when the wind picks up out back (early summer gets breezy here!).
This seagrass pouf is the kind of piece you don’t realize you need until you have it. I’m planning to place it between our two Adirondack chairs—it’s the perfect height to kick your feet up after a long day, but it can also double as a spot to set a drink, book, or snack. The woven texture plays against the clean lines of the chairs, giving the setup a more relaxed, layered feel. Plus, it’s light enough to move around depending on the setup or where the sun’s hitting—so it can flex for different moments throughout the day.
Another update that was long overdue …
House numbers! With our nearly-black exterior, I knew we needed something that would pop. I went with these brass ones—the font is so good, and they tie in perfectly with the brass knobs we used on the front door. Is it weird to say they feel a little “ranchy”? Not sure that’s a real word, but you get what I mean.
A new doormat was also a must. We’re constantly tracking in dirt and bits of juniper (these trees are no joke), plus all the decomposed granite from our pathways. I wanted something that could hold up and still look cute. This woven one checks every box—durable, neutral, and a little more elevated than your average coir mat (which, let’s be honest, sheds like crazy). These are truly indestructible. I recommend the 24×38 for a standard door, but they also come in larger sizes if you have double doors.
We had these custom firewood racks made last year for under the kitchen window that overlooks the front deck. At the time, we had a lot of wood and nowhere to store it—this was the sleekest, most functional solution. I love how they give structure to something as simple as firewood, while adding a touch of intentionality.
Planters were another refresh to be tackled. There were already a couple out here: this round concrete one, and a wooden one Derrick made. But, I wanted something with more texture, and found this great option from Target that’s a good Pottery Barn dupe. I got it in white (off-white was sold out) and ended up rubbing it with coffee grounds to tone it down. Have you ever tried that? It’s such a fun trick—I’ll share how it turns out once it fully dries! (If you are looking for more pots + planters, read our blog post dishing out a bunch of good options!).
And finally …
Ordered these solar lights for the walkway and stairs leading up to the porch—and wow, gamechanger! They come in a pack on Amazon, and they were super easy to place. Since they have built-in stakes, it took maybe five minutes to get them all in. It’s such a simple thing, but now the path feels way more inviting (and safer) when we have people over.
Last but not least, I pulled out this oversized woven basket I’ve had for years. It holds everything from cut branches to umbrellas! But, this summer I’m using it as a planter for a big hydrangea. I’m excited to see how it looks out here—hoping it adds just the right amount of softness and texture.
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