The 5 Things Every Patio Needs to Look Chic, According to an HGTV Star

As a home editor, it’s been my secret source for planters and throw pillows, but I was surprised to learn it’s Jasmine Roth’s go-to as well. Roth’s known for creating enviable outdoor spaces on her show, Hidden Potential, and when it came time to transform the yard of her new house, she partnered with the chain to give the whole space a refresh. Over Zoom, we caught up with Roth to uncover the five things every patio needs—and the small tweaks that can make a space go from so-so to stellar.

If you’re creating a backyard hangout, you’ll need a place to sit. Whether you spring for a full sectional set or a small bistro table, it’s worth investing in solid outdoor cushions. “Those are the things that will take your space from ‘oh, there’s a piece of furniture out there, and I guess I could sit there,’ to ‘wow, I really want to spend time out there,’” Roth says.

It may seem fussy, but hear Roth out: “It goes such a long way in creating a nice base and making your space finished,” she explains. “Cleaning it is pretty easy, too. You just prop it up, hose it down, let it dry and it’ll look brand new. And you don’t have to do it that often.”

If you have a small space—or are trying to stick to a budget—a lounger with an accent rug just big enough for your feet can be cost-effective yet cozy.

Most people decorate their patios and porches during the daytime, and don’t give lighting much thought. String lights are an easy way to extend the party well into the evening, and with this solar-powered style, the lights automatically turn on when the sun goes down, creating an inviting ambiance that won’t rack up your electricity bill.

You’re so close to your yard—why would you put a fake on your patio?! Because it’s one less thing to worry about, and today’s faux plants can look pretty darn realistic. Artificial ferns and succulents make for some of the best dupes, Roth says, though we're partial to this eucalyptus plant. Just make sure to map out where you'd put it before you hit 'add to cart' (more on that next).

Plants are a great finishing touch to make a patio feel more styled, but the biggest mistake people make is plopping them down on their outdoor bistro or coffee tables, effectively canceling out their counter space. You don’t have space to set out a great spread (or, in some cases, set down your drink), making it harder to really hang out and relax. That’s why Jasmine’s big on using hanging planters and plant stands—they draw your eye up, just like propping a plant on a table would.