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A patio or a balcony can easily connect your home with nature which is why they are great for turning them into relaxing spaces for outdoor living. If you are yearning to spend time in beautiful, breathtaking places like the South Pacific or the Caribbean, you can bring a piece of that stunning paradise to your outdoor space by adding elements of tropical décor style to them. Designing an outdoor space reminiscent of a gorgeous tropical resort is not as challenging as you might think. And you don't even have to live near an ocean to do it, you can create your own private, tropically-inspired oasis anywhere you live!
Let's have a look at some ideas about how to create a place to lounge, relax, dine, and entertain in a tropical outdoor setting. We offer advice on design, which tropical plants and accessories to include, how to choose a color palette, and more! Whether you have a small patio or a large one, and whether your lot is compact or huge, we have plenty of helpful advice for you. Use this guide to transform your home’s exterior into a fun and playful beachy tropical venue you will use and love! Let’s get started!
How To Bring The Tropical Look To Your Patio
With the right furniture and accessories, any patio or balcony can become an inviting, secluded paradise for lounging, dining or for entertaining.
Plan & Budget
Before you begin, take some time to envision your goal. Then, it is very important to set a budget and to create a plan. Decide how you want to use this space (outdoor cooking, dining, relaxing, reading, sunbathing, etc.) and try to visualize different variations of your oasis. Consider your patio size, its dimensions, and your personal style so you can create the perfect layout for your needs.
Materials
To truly bring home the essence of tropical islands from Bali to the Caribbean, you should include a variety of natural materials. A few examples include natural stone, exotic woods, bamboo, or rattan furniture. These evoke a sense of a serene island lifestyle. Consider adding a pergola or even a thatched roof. The goal here is to bring in heavier textural elements that will help to create that authentic, tropical, laid-back feeling.
Photo Credit: Ruggable Blog
Section Off The Space
Depending on the size of your patio, divide it where you can based on how it will be used. You can have one specific space for a covered seating area, another space for grilling or an outdoor kitchen, and perhaps another for lounging in the sun or by the pool. Creating differentiation between each area adds definition and character. You can define them by using rugs in one space, a partial row of potted plants for separation, and then some specific décor pieces. Make sure there is a comfortable flow and transition between each section so the space feels light and airy, just as all tropical homes should.
Eco-Friendly Solutions
To create an eco-conscious outdoor space, choose eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and recycled materials where possible. Use barrels to collect rain water for irrigating your tropical vegetation if possible and solar panels for lighting and water features.
Furnishings
Select high-quality, durable furnishings that will withstand various weather conditions. Choose cozy cushions and ergonomic seating so you and your guests can enjoy your tropical retreat comfortably.
Photo Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Tropical Plants
No tropical design is complete without outdoor tropical plants as they help create a tranquil and serene environment. To mimic rainforest vegetation, have a mix of plants which vary in height. Combine tall palm trees with ferns and bromeliads. This layout will bring depth and dimension to your overall design. Some fantastic tropical plants include banana trees, palm trees, hibiscus, bird of paradise, elephant ears, and cordyline. You can either plant them in the ground or use them in portable planters and pots, depending on the weather where you live. If you don’t have a lot of space, go vertical with the tallest plants possible.
Photo Credit: Cladco Decking
Color Palette
Tropical color palettes are all about bold and energetic hues that resemble exotic flowers and birds, such as rich turquoise, lush greens, and vibrant orange and coral. It’s best to use them as accent colors against neutrals. Throw pillows, rugs, and tabletop decor such as vases work very well as accent pieces. Don’t be afraid to get creative and mix and match different colors and patterns as the tropical style is playful and fun! For more inspiration and other great ideas, check out our guide on tropical backyards.
Lighting
Lighting is one topic that too many people either downplay or don't consider at all. Having awesome lighting is just that: awesome! If you have seen how great properly designed tropical yards can look at night, why not have something just as cool for yourself? So don’t forget to add soft, ambient lighting like lanterns, string lights, solar lamps, and tiki torches to create a cozy tropical setting at night.
Accessories
Items that reflect the feeling of tropical destinations can be:
- Unique handcrafted items (kava bowls, hand carved wooden sea turtles, etc.)
- Artwork such as wall hangings and outdoor wall art, statues, and other ground-level decor
- Outdoor rugs, decorative planters, brightly-colored pillows
- Hanging plants for covered spaces
- Hanging artwork including wind chimes
Fire & Water Elements
Lastly, if you have enough space and if you have the budget, add a water feature of some sort at the very least to your patio, deck, or even your balcony. Water features such as fountains, water bowls, and even bird baths are so calming and enhance the overall sensory experience. Most people love the sound of water as it trickles over river rocks or cascades down a waterfall. The sound of water blocks other noises and helps you to relax. If you can, add a fire element as well. There are many options available which some being portable as they are fueled by propane tanks while others are more permanently affixed as they are fueled by a natural gas line. Fire elements such as fire bowls, fire pits, and fireplaces add a whole new level of tranquility and peacefulness, especially at night.
A quick note for those of you with balconies: If you are limited to having only a balcony space, your choices for having a fire element of any kind are very limited. If you own a 2-story home and have your own balcony space, it is up to you to decide what is feasible and most importantly, safe, to have. However, if you live in an apartment or a condo, you most likely are not allowed to have anything with an open flame on your balcony. Please be sure to check with your building management prior to installing any type of fire element.
Photo Credit: Amazon
Tips For Small Patios & Balconies
Decorating a small space can be challenging since you have to be very creative in order to make the most out of your space. The idea is to create a multi-purpose space that is functional and will accommodate various needs and guests. Ideally, it should be cozy and inviting while being spacious enough to be enjoyable.
Here are a few tips for decorating a small patio or balcony:
- Before decorating, assess the space and its dimensions, size, shape, and the surroundings
- Think about how it will be used (entertaining, dining, chatting, play area for children, etc.)
- Take careful measurements of the space to ensure that selected furniture pieces will fit
- Choose multifunctional pieces such as convertible benches, sofas with retractable trays, small patio umbrellas which can be closed and moved to a corner, etc.
- Make use of every corner and nook to maximize available space
- Create vertical space by adding outdoor curtains or tall potted plants
- Provide extra seating with poufs and floor pillows that are easily stored away when not in use
Photo Credit: Elle Decor
15 Tropical Patio Ideas
When it comes to your home's exterior, especially a patio or balcony, the key is to ensure everyone can sit, dine, and or simply relax comfortably. For ideas about how to achieve just this, see our suggestions below. We have compiled a selection of designs that take their inspiration from the stunning islands of the tropics!
1. Island-Style Patio
This chic patio incorporates plenty of wood and stone, combined with earth-toned furniture to create a modern tropical design style. Simple, sleek lines and shapes are softened by comfortable seating and the surrounding foliage.
Photo Credit: Willman Interiors
2. Small Backyard Spaces
Here’s a fantastic idea for using every square foot of available outdoor space. Even if your property has just a a small courtyard, you can still turn it into your own private tropical retreat. Opt for neutral colored floors and furniture as these will help to make the space appear larger. Use large leaf potted plants. If you live in lower hardiness zones, keep you plants portable by using pots so you can bring them inside when the temperature drops. Complete the look by adding a fire pit, woven furniture pieces with teakwood accent pieces, stringed outdoor bistro lights, and lanterns of different sizes. Smaller lanterns are great for tabletops with larger ones used strategically in corner floor spaces.
Photo Credit: Facebook
3. A Green Oasis
If you are longing to have your own spot for relaxation and you have a patio which has tree-shaded areas and great plant life along the walls, fences, and at ground-level, that is an oasis which is just waiting for you. If you can install a hammock, then by all means, put one in. You can create the perfect lounging area to retreat to after a long day at the office. Swaying gently in a shaded area full of greenery from the sky to the the ground with gentle breezes blowing through will provide the serene escape you need. Install a fountain or other water feature so you can hear the sound of water for additional mental and physical well-being. If having a hammock is not possible, create a wonderful lounging area with a great quality lounge chair and a side table for holding the beverage of your choice. Outdoor bistro lights and lanterns are a wonderful addition for nighttime use.
Photo Credit: Sayidaty
4. Minimalist Tropical Patio Design
Here’s another way to turn your terrace into a tropical paradise with a beachy feel. Start with neutral colors such as white, gray, or tan. Add in some contrast with bright greenery and the vibrant blooming plants. In this example, there is a lot of white but it works. The whitewashed wooden floor, the white walls, upholstery and curtains all create the foundation for that beachy feel. The bamboo furniture and jute rugs bring in some great texture with neutral colors while the potted plants bring in some wonderful pops of green. The number of colors and accent pieces are kept to a minimum which really works to create this minimalist tropical design.
Photo Credit: Shelterness
5. Tropical Decks
This small deck is a wonderful example of how you can maximize your available space and turn it into a secluded, exotic retreat for you to enjoy. In addition to the perimeter fencing, this homeowner added some outdoor curtains and some trellis woodwork to create further privacy. Brightly colored fabrics such as cerulean blue seat cushions, blue and green patterned back cushions, and coral-toned pillows create a wonderful tropically-inspired seating area The bright yellow umbrella is the perfect choice to complete this awesome space!
Photo Credit: Instagram
6. Firepit Seating Area
Consider adding a firepit and a couple of comfortable sofas or chairs. It will add warmth, coziness, and visual appeal to your deck space. Jute and rattan accents combined with large leaf foliage in planter space and in pots creates a beautiful scene with really nice visual texture. Complete the look by adding some outdoor string bistro lights and a few strategically placed lanterns. Your firepit will remain as the focal point in the perfectly appointed space!
Photo Credit: Rachelpaintingny
7. Infuse Your Space With Color
When planning your design, try bringing in colors to match what already exists in your deck or patio space. Matching plant containers, large pots and other decor existing fabrics and furnishings is one direction you can go. Or you can bring in new outdoor upholstery and furnishing to match existing large plant containers, pots, and other existing landscaping features. Regardless of the direction you take, you can then bring in contrasting pops of color with added, pillows, rugs, and other accents. Coordinating new pieces with existing ones instantly creates a cohesive look. If choosing a particular color palette to follow is difficult, simply look for inspiration in the tropics. Visualize the beaches and its blue waters and white sand. Image rainforests with so many shades of green, its amazing flowers, and its vibrantly colored animal life. Lava rock and other natural stone is also full of inspiration for colors and textures.
Photo Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
8. Intimate & Vibrant Compact Spaces
In this example, the homeowners kept things fun and vibrant area while focusing on the use of natural textures and elements. This decorating style is also sometimes referred to as "Jungalow" because of its bohemian look and the good vibes that result. Colorful pillows, tall birds of paradise, woven baskets as wall art, and rattan furniture all make this patio space dramatic and visually interesting as well as comfortable and inviting. The deep green color of the accent wall is the perfect backdrop for the brightly colored accents and natural wood furnishings.
Photo Credit: Old Brand New
9. Upstairs Balcony Deck
This small, private upstairs patio is a perfect example of how you can bring a small and simple outdoor space to life. With just a few key pieces, you can have a secluded place to wind down in a gorgeous setting after a busy day at work. This design features a simple benches with a few throw pillows, small accent tables, and floor lanterns. The muted outdoor rug brings in a bit of warmth and the surrounding natural greenery connects the space to nature itself. The simplicity of this space works very well as a perfect little outdoor escape.
Photo Credit: The Design Twins
10. Luxurious Relaxation
With more and more people spending a lot of time at home, the latest trends in design revolve around crafting luxurious exteriors that connect the outside to the home itself. This patio space contains all elements of tropical design, from lush vegetation and natural stone pathways to textured furniture and pops of color. The focus is on the use of carefully selected seating which is truly comfortable and allows for maximum relaxation. Awesome landscaping that truly showcases natures beauty, whether created by the homeowner or existing in its natural state, provides the perfect setting in which a patio space such as this can used for luxurious relaxation. This is a true oasis!
Photo Credit: Canva
11. Playful Patio
This eclectic, playful design brings life and personality to this patio. A bit of whimsy in furnishing styles is a wonderful way to bring out curiosity and charm. Here we find an abundance of bright colors from the tropical jungle coupled with bold details and lively accents which exude that genuine vibe of faraway island locations.
Photo Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
12. Outdoor Deck Dining Room
This outdoor dining room features lots of colors, textures, and patterns, mized with sheer fabrics, hanging lanterns, and tropical plants. You don't need to travel to the Bahamas or Hawaii when you can have this beautiful, festive, and welcoming space! You have everything you need right here to have fun and relax!
Photo Credit: Beauteeful Living
13. Mix And Match
The key to decorating an outdoor living room is to treat it the same way as if you were decorating an indoor living room. In this example, instead of matching the furniture, the designer chose to shake things up a bit by mixing different pieces. This outdoor living room features two chairs from the same set and a sofa of different design and fits beautifully within the surroundings of dense tropical foliage.
Photo Credit: Caroline Rafferty
14. Use Bold Prints & Patterns
If you don’t have a lot of square footage on your patio or terrace, you can still go big on style. Don’t hesitate to use large prints and patterns and combine them with accent colors that pop against neutral backgrounds. In this example, the walls and the ground are dark gray which is reminiscent of lava rocks. This provides the perfect backdrop for the bold greens from the large tropical plants and the yellows, golds and orange brought if from the pillows and terracotta pots.
Photo Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
15. Tropical Balconies
Even if you have a condo or an apartment, there’s no reason for you not to have your own piece of paradise right on your balcony. You don’t need to go overboard with color. It’s best to use neutral creams and browns as foundational colors because these help to enlarge spaces. Then you can add in some tropical hues with potted plants and seat cushions that bring a bit of color to the scene.
Photo Credit: Canva
5 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Decorating Outdoors
Whether you are renovating your patio or adding some life to your deck or balcony, it’s always good to make sure you avoid some common mistakes:
- Check with local laws and regulations, or with building management before starting a large outdoor project. Make sure you verify that your new addition (pergola, fencing, shed, etc.) complies with local zoning codes.
- Awkward furniture layouts restrict movement and interrupt the natural flow between the inside of the home and the outside. This is especially true for smaller spaces. Pay special attention to placement and traffic patterns to ensure the best flow. Simply put, make sure you have enough room to move around easily!
- Don't forget about providing proper shade. Pay attention to the direction of sun, how much direct sunlight hits your space, and what the best options are for providing shade. Forgetting about shading happens often and you want to do your best when it comes to keeping yourself and your guests cool.
- Be sure to provide enough comfortable seating options including loungers, sofas, chairs, and ottomans.
- You want things to be visually and physically cohesive. Everything should tie together to create one complete and solid cohesive look. From the way it looks to the way you move through your space, having the best possible flow will allow you to achieve the best possible results! That's the goal!
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