Create an Outdoor Oasis

Transform your outdoor space from a run-of-the-mill lawn to an oasis fit for summer entertaining with these expert ideas and updates. Whether you choose to install string lights, set up a firepit, or make over your old, worn deck, our collection of outdoor upgrades has something for every space. Then use our entertaining ideas to enjoy the sanctuary you create with friends and neighbors. Your sweet escape from life’s chaos is just a few steps away—through your front or back door.

outdoor kitchen on paver patio

Caitlin Atkinson | Design: Corinne Mucha

9 Patio Trends That Make Your Space Feel Like a Second Living Room

Today's patios act as extensions of the home, with layered lighting, resort-style amenities, and comfy lounge furniture helping to blur the line between indoors and out. Luckily, achieving a look you love can be as simple as a few decor swaps. Upgrade your space this season with the top trending patio updates, from garden stools that double as side tables to secondhand furniture that adds a lived-in look and portable table lamps that set the mood for alfresco dinner parties.

backyard with deck and pergola

Jason Donnelly | Design: Corinne Mucha

Our Favorite Deck Updates for Laidback Outdoor Living

Gone are the days of basic brown decks lacking storage, seating, or style. Thanks to today’s wide variety of sustainable features, stain colors, and smart technology, it’s easier than ever to customize your deck to suit your preferences. Love to cook and entertain guests? Consider incorporating an outdoor kitchen complete with built-in prep areas. Is your deck a respite for relaxation? Try today’s trending biophilic design, which brings nature into living spaces for a tranquil retreat.

porch with porch swing

Keyanna Bowen | Design: Corinne Mucha

6 Porch Trends That Will Still Look Fresh Years from Now

Gear up for porch season with our favorite ways to design an outdoor living space you can enjoy all season long. We tapped top home design and landscaping experts to discover the best porch trends for 2026, including cozy furnishings, calming neutral palettes, and showstopping front doors. Simple decor swaps, like plush pillows and potted plants, can completely transform your space, or if you have an entire weekend to dedicate, consider hanging a new porch swing, re-painting walls, or swapping out light fixtures.

outdoor dining with string lights

Savannah K. Barry | Design: Corinne Mucha

4 Simple Ways to Romanticize Your Patio and Savor Summer

Don't let summer slip away in the blink of an eye. Even slivers of outdoor space can become an oasis perfect for creating cherished memories with friends and family. Turn to these expert tips to transform your porch, patio, or deck into a dream setting, whether you draw inspiration from your favorite film or turn to the past for nostalgic touches. And don't forget the personalized playlist!

A woman, a man, and a boy stand in a driveway near a house with plants and a blue garage.

David Tsay | Design: Corinne Mucha

Driveway Socials Are the Hottest Hosting Trend of the Year

Outdoor gatherings are moving to the driveway thanks to one of the hottest hosting trends of the summer. Casual and quick to pull together, driveway socials allow neighbors to meet up (sans formal invitations) without the pressure of major party planning. Drinks are self-serve, lawn games are encouraged, and music is a must.

Pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, basil, and diced ingredients in a bowl, wooden utensils and a napkin nearby.

Carson Downing | Design: Corinne Mucha

11 Delicious Grilled Dinner Ideas to Add to Your Cookout Rotation

You can always default to burgers, brats, and hot dogs once warm weather arrives, but these grilled dinner ideas are a bit more elevated, helping bring a sense of oasis to your plate, too. Savor a grilled pork chop with a fresh salad, a truly irresistible pasta salad starring cooked-on-your-grill chicken, saucy ribs, and more.

Outdoor seating area with a pergola, fire pit, plants, and dining table, surrounded by landscaping and greenery.

Dave Bryce | Interior Designer: Jennifer Janeway | Design: Corinne Mucha

31 Firepit Ideas for the Ultimate Backyard Hangout Space

As summer nights wind down, turn to your backyard firepit—whether it’s a basic wood-burning basin or gas fire table—for outdoor entertaining. With creative ideas for seating, hardscaping, and privacy, our favorite firepit ideas can help you achieve a space for relaxation, social gatherings, backyard barbecues, and beyond.

Outdoor patio with a dining table, chairs, string lights, a grill, and a pizza oven in the background.

Edmund Barr | Design: Corinne Mucha

How to Hang String Lights on Your Patio for a Perfectly Sparkling Space

Your outdoor oasis isn’t complete without a twinkling display of lights. Learn how to hang string lights over your deck, porch, or patio using one of our two foolproof methods, so the party can last well into the evening hours. Even better? This easy project can be completed in just an hour, so you can get back to enjoying your outdoor space faster.