The best part of spring and summer (besides gardening, of course) is definitely the outdoor living, and here in Allentown, we love seeing the creative ways our customers make the most of their outdoor spaces! Whether it's a cozy balcony, a sprawling backyard, or a petite patio tucked behind a townhouse, our outdoor spaces can become soothing sanctuaries amongst the bustling of city life. If you’re ready to create your own private paradise, let’s take a look at some of the best outdoor patio designs for Pennsylvania and some trending patio sets you can find right here at Lehigh Valley Garden Center!
Maximizing Space with Creative Design
Life in urban centers often means outdoor space is at a premium, so a little creativity goes a long way when designing a functional outdoor retreat. Here are some of our favorite ideas to make the most of every square inch you have to work with:
Layout optimization: Maximize space by carefully planning the arrangement of furniture and features.
Seamless transition: Create a cohesive flow between indoor and outdoor spaces for a unified feel.
Material selection: Choose durable, weather-resistant materials found in our outdoor patio collections that enhance the visual appeal and functionality of your patio or balcony.
Lighting scheme: Illuminate the area with strategic lighting solutions to extend usability into the evening hours.
Privacy solutions: Implement screens, trellises, or foliage to enhance privacy without sacrificing aesthetics!
Comfortable seating: Select cozy outdoor seating options that encourage relaxation and socialization.
Compact furniture: Try foldable, compact or multi-functional furniture pieces, like our Alfresco three piece bistro sets, that can be easily stowed away when not in use.
Planting Ideas for Patio Spaces
Transforming your patio or balcony into a lush green paradise is easier than you think, and an integral part of small space gardening. With the right placement and creative container gardening techniques, you can elevate your outdoor space with vibrant foliage and beautiful blooms. Let's explore some innovative ideas for displaying plants and container gardens in small areas:
Vertical gardening with trellises: Utilize vertical space by installing trellises on balconies or small patios for climbing plants like ivy, clematis, or sweet peas.
Tiered shelving: Arrange shelves or plant stands in tiers to showcase a variety of plants at different heights, adding depth and visual interest to your space.
Window boxes: Install window boxes along railings or windowsills to bring the beauty of nature closer to your living area, while maximizing limited space.
Hanging planters: Hang pots or baskets from ceilings, pergolas, or overhangs to create a cascading effect and add dimension to your outdoor oasis.
Grouping plants: Arrange potted plants in clusters or groupings to create focal points and enhance the overall aesthetic of your patio or balcony.
Mix of textures and colors: Experiment with different plant varieties, textures, and colors to create dynamic compositions that reflect your personal style and taste.
Edible gardens: Grow herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers in containers or raised beds to create a functional and sustainable garden—right outside your door!
Seasonal rotation: Refresh your outdoor space throughout the year by rotating seasonal plants and flowers, keeping your patio or balcony vibrant and inviting in every season!
Create a Cozy Vibe with Lighting and Décor
Lighting and décor play a crucial role in setting the mood and ambiance of your outdoor space, transforming it into a cozy haven for relaxation and entertainment. Let's explore some ideas to enhance the atmosphere:
String lights: Drape fairy lights along fences, pergolas, or trellises to create a magical, twinkling effect.
Lanterns: Incorporate lanterns with flickering candles or LED bulbs to add a warm, rustic charm to your patio or balcony.
Solar-powered fixtures: Install solar-powered lights along pathways or in planters to illuminate your outdoor space while being eco-friendly.
Cohesive décor elements: Choose weather-resistant cushions, rugs, and accessories in coordinating colors and patterns to create a cohesive look that ties the design together.
Seasonal accents: Rotate seasonal décor items such as throw pillows, blankets, and floral arrangements to keep your outdoor space fresh and inviting throughout the year.
What’s Hot in Patio Furniture in 2024
There’s no question that choosing the right furniture can make or break a good patio design, and we’re fully stocked on the trendiest patio sets you’ll find anywhere in Allentown!
Speak to us today about custom orders in the Castelle collection.
Come in and shop the new Alfresco Home woven wood collection with all-weather woven wicker. For a tropical or beachy patio vibe, shop the wood collection from Jensen Leisure. You’ll love the new Trellis Chairs made of IPE wood—a Brazilian hardwood prized for its durability through density.
For those larger patio spaces where dinner outdoors is a daily event, we have superior dining sets for any patio design, like our classic Hanamint Extension Dining table (76" to 100") and swivel rockers.
Whatever your outdoor patio designs might be for the season, Lehigh Valley Garden Center has a versatile selection of plants, pots, and patio sets to make your outdoor living a natural way of life in Pennsylvania!