How to Update an Outdoor Space Using 2 Simple Items
Hello! I haven’t posted a new article in a couple of weeks. Two weeks ago I finished my project updating an outdoor space, and I promptly found myself battling the worst sinus infection I have ever had. Too much pollen exposure? Maybe! Then I went on a trip out of town, but I’m back to tell you how I gave an outdoor space a designer look for less than you would think possible.
Last year, I needed to purchase new outdoor rugs for our deck, but the dysfunctional supply chain limited my options. I searched for weeks, looking for the perfect pair of 8 x 10 foot rugs for the space, and I couldn’t find what I wanted. Instead of being picky—the existing rugs were completely ruined from exposure to the elements—I settled for a style that wasn’t quite right for me. I then had to make new covers for the decorative pillows, and was confronted by the same situation with textiles.
The outdoor space aesthetic was fine, but not what I had in mind.
This spring, I started my search for replacement rugs and textiles in February, with better luck. Against the odds, I located and procured ten yards of Sunbrella fabric in a design that I absolutely loved! In case you aren’t aware, many of the Sunbrella styles are on backorder—again—due to persistent supply chain issues. However, the style I found was actually an overstock, and a local supplier had enough for my project.
After I found the perfect textiles for the new pillow covers, I searched for rugs. Luckily, overstock.com had an excellent selection of mark-downs, and I found now two, but three rugs in a natural tone that will, with any luck, be usable next year as well.
The project
Making the new pillow covers took several days of measuring, pinning, and sewing, but I completed the pillows for the deck as well as the lower patio. Normally, I make envelope-style pillow covers for easy replacement, but Sunbrella fabric holds up well to cleaning, so I opted to sew permanent seams for a snug fit. When it became clear that I was running close on fabric, I purchased several smaller decorator pillows to replace the 24” pillows from the previous year.
Once the pillows were finished, I vacuumed the old rugs to remove pollen, and installed the new rugs. Overall, the transformation was relatively easy, and dramatic! But the best aspect was the cost. The fabric cost me around $120, four new pillows cost me $60, and the rugs cost just under $200 apiece. In all, I spent around $800 to redecorate not just one, but two separate outdoor spaces, and I love the finished result!
If you have an outdoor space that needs a fresh look, pillows and rugs can provide the drama or simplicity that you crave. By sewing my own pillows, I was able to achieve a custom result at a fraction of the price.
Gate City Design offers custom sewing services for anyone looking for new pillows! Choose the fabric you want, or use my shopping service if you feel overwhelmed with options. I always make every effort to stay well within your budget, and I can ship the finished product anywhere in the continental United States.
Contact me directly! I love to make spaces beautiful!
336-707-7324
Hillary McAlhany is the owner of Gate City Design. She is a certified professional home stager/redesigner, E-designer & color expert. Although she is based in North Carolina, she offers remote design services outside of the central North Carolina region.
