Courtyard Refresh + Sprucing Up Your Porch on a Budget

Refresh your porch or patio on a budget with 12 creative and affordable ideas—plus a peek at my courtyard makeover, including a front door stain, cozy sitting area, and stylish planters.

A few weeks ago, I stood staring at my front door—bubbling paint again (for the third time!). At that point, I was convinced the universe was telling me to just give up and buy a new one.

I started looking into replacement options, only to find out that because my door is taller and wider than standard, the quotes came back at over $5,000 and one even hit $8,000! For a door. I couldn’t believe it.

Determined not to spend more on my entryway than I did on my first car, I grabbed some sandpaper and decided to try sanding and staining it myself, instead—maybe stain would hold up better than paint?

It turned into a whole ordeal (naturally), but once I got started, something clicked. I figured if I was already refreshing the door, I might as well tackle the entire courtyard.

It became a fun challenge: how much could I upgrade it without spending a fortune?

Spoiler alert: a lot, actually.

From revamping the benches to styling planters with a mix of faux and real plants (shoutout to succulents I can keep alive), I ended up loving the results.

And the best part? I kept it all budget-friendly.

Today I’m sharing exactly what I did, along with a few more creative, low-cost ways you can spruce up your porch or patio too—twelve ideas in total that prove you don’t need to spend thousands to create a space you love.

Let’s dive in!

1. Stain or Paint Your Front Door

Let’s start with the big project I just tackled: my front door. I sanded it down and stained it black to get rid of the peeling and bubbling paint that often happens with the Arizona sun.

It wasn’t a quick job (in fact, it felt like it took forever), but the end result is completely worth the time and effort.

If your door is looking a little tired, consider giving it a fresh coat of paint or stain—it’s a simple way to make a statement and breathe new life into your entryway.

2. All-Season Wreath with a Simple Ribbon Swap

I’m a huge fan of wreaths—they instantly add personality to a porch or entryway. Instead of buying a new wreath every season, I decided to go with an all-season wreath that I can easily update by swapping out the ribbon.

This way, I get the fresh look of a new wreath without the cost of buying a new one every few months, and without the hassle of storing the ones I’m not currently using.

3. Faux Flowers Mixed with Real Succulents

You don’t need to spend a fortune on fancy planters to add greenery to your space. I found some super affordable pots at Walmart and added faux flowers that won’t die on me in a week!

Faux flowers are a great way to add instant color and texture.

To keep things fresh and natural, I mixed them with real succulents that I can actually keep alive.

4. Creating a Cozy Sitting/Conversation Area

My very favorite spot in my courtyard is the cozy sitting area. I found a budget-friendly furniture set and created a space where we can gather with friends or just relax with a favorite drink.

5. Refreshing the Courtyard Benches and Fire Pit

I gave my existing outdoor benches and fire pit a quick refresh. The benches got a new coat of stain, and the fire pit, a little high-heat spray paint was all it needed. Now it’s the perfect spot for evening hangouts, s’mores, and star-gazing.

6. Add an Outdoor Rug

One of the quickest ways to elevate your porch or patio is with an outdoor rug. Rugs define the space, add color, and make it feel cozy. You don’t need to invest in an expensive designer rug—there are plenty of budget-friendly options that are both durable and stylish. Look for rugs made specifically for outdoor use, which are designed to handle the elements.

7. DIY Planters for Some Greenery

Plants bring life to any outdoor space, but store-bought planters can get costly. Instead, make your own planters using simple, inexpensive materials. You can repurpose items like old wooden crates, buckets, or even mismatched mugs. A little creativity goes a long way, and the result will be both unique and budget-friendly.

8. Pillows and Throws: Affordable Comfort

Nothing says comfort like some soft cushions and throws. Refresh your existing patio furniture by adding colorful throw pillows in fun patterns. Add a cozy throw blanket for those chilly evenings to really create an inviting atmosphere.

9. String Lights for Ambiance

Set the mood with string lights! They’re an inexpensive way to add a soft, warm glow to your porch or patio. Whether you drape them across a railing, wrap them around a tree, or hang them in a zigzag pattern across the ceiling, string lights will instantly give your outdoor space a magical feel.

10. Repurpose Decor from Inside Your Home

Before you buy new decor, take a look around your house! You probably already have some items that can be repurposed for outdoor use. Repurpose an old ladder as a plant stand or hanging shelf for additional greenery. Be creative with what you already have—it’s an easy way to save money while giving your space personality.

11. Thrift Store Finds for a Unique Touch

If you’re in need of new decor but want to avoid paying full price, thrift stores are your best friend. You can find everything from decorative trays to outdoor furniture to quirky, one-of-a-kind accessories for a fraction of the price. A little bit of elbow grease might be required to clean up or reimagine the piece, but that’s part of the fun!

12. Create a Cozy Nook with a Hammock or Swing

If you’ve got the space, a hammock or a hanging swing chair is a perfect way to make your patio feel like a true retreat. You can find affordable options that are easy to set up, and they don’t require a lot of space. Add a few cushions and a blanket, and you’ve got yourself a cozy little nook perfect for reading or daydreaming.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have a place to hang a swing, a freestanding hammock is a great option.

Whether you’re tackling a weekend project or just adding a few budget-friendly pieces, your outdoor living area can become your favorite spot to unwind, without breaking the bank! Happy decorating!

HERE ARE A FEW MORE DECOR IDEAS YOU MIGHT FIND HELPFUL:

• Coffee Table Styling Tips
• Making Our Guest Room Cozy
• Tips for Organizing a Small Bathroom