This unloved and outdated deck gets a cottage deck makeover with thrifted finds, DIY’s, and quality, long-lasting items.
*This post was made possible by Joss and Main, and includes my personal selection of their amazingly beautiful and affordable home decor products, which I was graciously provided with for the purpose of this post. This post is also brought to you by my talented husband, Kevin, and his crazy mad woodworking skills ;). I needed them both!
I’ve been keeping a little secret from you over here, but it is officially time to spill the beans!
Usually for my space makeovers I gear you up for it with posts full of inspirational images, before shots, and product ideas. This time I thought it would be fun to hit you with the home run right off the bat.
And let me tell you, my hubs and I think this deck makeover is one of our favorites of all time!
It feels like we actually added square footage onto our home.
What was once just a dumping ground is now our favorite spot to linger, entertain, chat, eat and relax.
We worked hard and fast on this project, but the payoff has been well worth it!
If you would like, please pull up a chair and lets chat details. But first – the before images!!
Yikes, huh? And this was after we had cleaned a little already. Notice the railing color and the overall blaaa feeling. (Anyone need some old spools????)
Now notice what a difference the painted and refreshed railing makes, and the overall ahhh feeling.
I was actually going to make-do with the red blotchy wood railing because after listing the potential projects I was envisioning my husband would need to complete, I didn’t dare ask for his help to paint the railing white.
But when he threw out the suggestion, I jumped on that bandwagon so fast! Proof that husbands can be trained to paint perfectly good wood, ladies 😉
The previous railing was also topped with the same turf type material that is on the floors, which actually holds up really well and is low maintenance- but was a total eye sore for me as a railing topper.
So we removed that top and replaced it with some white wash pickling stained wood in it’s place. He also built it out to define a cozy little grill area and serving station. (Darling solar lanterns and grill are from Joss and Main).
He also doubled up on the wood railing by the grill to provide more space for trays and plates and even an added ledge for guests to pull up a chair and eat their grub. Our family gatherings can prove to be rather large and we need all the eating space we can muster.
After we finished, Kevin set to designing and building the pergola – which is really the key piece to making this feel like a cozy retreat.
Didn’t he do an incredible job!! We also painted that white, and I added some curtains to the corners. Outdoor curtains and even outdoor fabric can prove to be pretty expensive, especially when you need 8 panels. But when I discovered I could order IKEA mesh curtains, 2 panels for $11.00 on Amazon, I knew they fit the bill and would look great. I believe they are even cheaper if you can make it to an IKEA store, at around $4.00 for 2 panels. IKEA is 2 hours away from me so ordering was still cheaper and a time saver.
They really do look fantastic for the price. I just tied them up with some rope to the wood beams on the pergola. Though, I will say – the bugs really like to hide in them and I have to shake them out every once in awhile.
Now lets talk about the outdoor dining area.
Kevin built the beautiful table as well, and I stained the top with pickling stain and painted the bottom with white paint.
I’ve hoped for a simple table like this for years and was pleased we finally had a spot for it.
I bought the white metal chairs last year at Walmart, and the 2 end chairs I found for a screaming deal at an antique store for $30 for both.
I can’t seem to find these chairs at Walmart any more, but we really love the style and comfort.
Now, if you are like me, you are totally all heart eyes over that hutch behind the table.
Yep – he made that too! I had these shutters I found junkin’, and we needed a place to hide a TV because we couldn’t help but imagine how dreamy and fun it would be to watch some movies out here in the evenings together.
So together we drew up and custom designed a piece that would work for style and storage, and look like something passed down from an old Aunt Melba.
The kiddos absolutely love it and really enjoy eating their breakfast out here before it gets too hot, and watching a show or two on these lazy summer days.
I love that I was able to find a use for the shutters and have some extra storage options out here.
I’ve been hording these old grain sacks for just the perfect project as well, and I love the vintage feel they offer being used as curtains. I stocked the hutch with outdoor eating supplies with some dollar store purchases and thrift store finds.
I painted this hutch with FolkArt Milk paint, which I found at Hobby Lobby. I would normally opt for Miss Mustard Seed milk paint (because she is my hero), but I was anxious and couldn’t wait so opted to grab Sumter Blue in FolkArt Milk paint. It is a bit of a bolder color than I am used to, but I really love how it turned out with those shutters.
Over by the grill area, we did some custom work as well.
Starting with that charming rolling cart that my sweet neighbor totally thought was an antique.
The only thing old about it is the middle piece of wood, salvaged from my husbands collection of old wood.
Other than that, it is all new wood I painted and chipped to look old. All my outdoor furniture also has 3-4 layers of protective top coat so the heat and rain won’t destroy our hard work.
The baskets and storage items I found at Hobby Lobby as well. I ordered some melamine dishware on Amazon to use for our meals outdoors. And I found a mix and match variety of silverware at the thrift store for 10 cents a piece.
We wanted a place to hang some decorative and purposeful grill items. I enjoyed an afternoon of searching the antique shops in town to find a collection of old things – something I think every space needs.
It was truly an exciting day junkin’ and I found some great stuff for great buys. Including the old hooks we attached to some old wood.
And this darling painted bar stool for $12.00. Antique shopping can be tricky, but it is possible to score some great deals.
Of course, the grill masters favorite part of the deck is his new shiny grill from Joss and Main. It works like a champ, hides the less than appealing propane tank, takes up minimal space and Kevin raves on and on about how evenly it cooks the meat. Fall time is actually my favorite for grilling because it isn’t so hot and we really look forward to using all year long. If you are in the market for an affordable grill, I highly recommend this Char-Broil grill.
Now lets head over to my little gardening spot – which is really pretty humorous if you know how black my thumb is. I sure am giving it my best effort though, with a few small plants hanging on an old crib spring.
I wrote more about this project over at Craftberry Bush, if you are interested in more details.
It mostly involves a closer look at the antique goodies I found.
If you’ve been hanging around TIDBITS very long, you’ll know I love to re-purpose items for each space makeover as well. This crib spring actually came from my childhood crib – which is just pretty cool if you think about it.
I wanted a small rolling cart for drinks and treats when entertaining opportunities presented themselves – like the movie parties my kiddos are planning. So using a small slab of marble I bought from a local companies remnant sale, Kevin built a small rolling cart to move around as needed.
Again, I just stained it with pickling stain – which you are probably noticing that growing trend around here. Then I found some old bowls from the antique stores just waiting to be filled with snack bags. In the meantime, I placed a game of pick-up-sticks in there for some impromptu entertainment and lovely wood tones.
And if you’ll notice the window shelf Kevin built, which has already been claimed as the popcorn ordering station. The girls love to remove the screen and pass food back and forth. Hours of good fun.
I was pretty smitten with this chippy bucket and find it perfect for ice cold drinks.
And one of my favorite affordable antique finds yet – this lovely marble topped, French coffee table. I talked them down to $75.00 on this baby. Can you believe that!! Marble slabs alone are 3 times that much. I just felt it would be the perfect touch to adding some French cottage charm to the area.
Although the bright yellow slide doesn’t quite fit my color scheme, it is still a very fun aspect of our deck which was actually installed before we bought the house.
I believe I’ve covered the fact that I prefer each space to have re-purposed items, plenty of DIY’s, thrift and junkin’ finds – but let’s talk about the importance of some quality built, long lasting items as well.
Starting with this simple furniture conversation set and outdoor rug from Joss and Main.
I was actually worried about the white cushions being used outside – I’ll be honest. But you know how particular I am to light and bright.
But my sweet 2 year old son proved their quality and wash-ability by throwing up on them directly after they were set up the first time. Yes, he puked all over them.
Imagine my excitement.
However, a simple soapy rinse under the sink and you would never know.
Imagine my relief.
As far as comfort goes, my husband says they are more comfortable than our couch – which is saying alot!! He loves a chair that sits you up right and supports your back. When I can’t seem to find him to hand him his honey-do-list, he is usually lounging right out here on these chairs.
And I’ll plop down right beside him and get completely sucked in by his relaxing presence, the beauty around us, and the satisfaction of hard work.
And for a small moment, we forget the to-do’s and remember our blessings.
For me – that’s what taking care of your home and loving your spaces can do for you. And that is glorious.
Thanks from the bottom of my wee little heart for being here today and supporting my blog. I couldn’t be on this creative journey without your visits and encouraging words. I would love to hear what you think of the transformation and if you have a favorite part.
Thank you and I hope you’ll leave feeling inspired and motivated to love your home a little more.
xo – Cami
*This post contains affiliate links to products I use and love. Thank you!
*Linking up to these parties, HERE.
Hi there, your deck makeover design is superb. I wish I can do a DIY renovation at my house. Do you ask for a deck makeover assistant for you to achieve that wonderful design?
Nick
https://www.rencoroofing.com/
I stan to see the wonders of makeover aftermath. I wish I had a chance to do a makeover on one part of the house. I’m looking for a perfect DIY so I will be able to save money and let the budget do the work for me.
Nick @ https://www.rencoroofing.com/
This is fantastic in every way, Cami! Love all your details.
Larissa ~ Prodigal Pieces recently posted…Mudroom Update with DIY Storage
The finished look is quite amazing. I’m super inspired. You’ve got a good eye for design.
Jim R. recently posted…Buying Teak Patio Furniture – What to Know
Cami, I saw your post on Pinterest and it has totally me! I just inherited my grandparents farmhouse I am now the 4th generation to live here and our back deck just looks so uninviting, so thank you for the beautiful inspiration.
Beautiful! That part about your little boy made me laugh out loud… so typical right?! I’m in love with all of it, and you’ve inspired to me work on our back patio… maybe next year though! Thanks for sharing all your talents and for the good ideas!
Cami ,it all looks so cozy and amazing.I always look forward to what your hubby builds
for you. Great team!
Wow! Wow! Wow! Cami, it looks Amazing! I love your shabby chic style, it all looks beautiful! How fun to have a tv outside, and that slide looks super fun 🙂
Hi Cami,
No–no favorite parts–I love it all! Thanks for the inspiration!
Beautiful! May I ask how big is your deck? I’m getting ready to build a deck on the back of our home and I like the way you have the furniture and table arrangement. I’m having a hard time figuring out how big to build it. Thanks
Julie
Custom building sounds exciting and overwhelming! I always just have to work with the space I have. Our deck is about 14 feet by 22 feet and the grill area is 10 x 6. We built the pergola at 10 x 10. It feels like a good size deck. If you have the space I would go a tad bit bigger just to allow more breathing room and a second table if needed. It can feel a bit snug when my whole family is here and it would be nice to be able to pull up a kids table. But it does feel perfectly cozy and roomy at the same time. Good luck to you!
Cami, Wow! I just love how all the different elements came together. You’ve got yourself a ‘handy man’ there, a keeper! And the thrifty ingenuity coupled with your style, just lovely! Congratulations, may you and your family make lots of memories there for years to come!
God bless,
Cathy
Thank you so much! And most definitely! He is so good to me and tolerates so much. He actually built and took apart that table 3 times because I wasn’t ever sure of the amount of lip I wanted. Poor guy. I truly appreciated your sweet comment. I do hope we make many many memories out here. God bless you too!
It is gorgeous! You are so good at having the vision for a space and bringing it to life with thrifted or re-purposed items. I walk into an antique store and don’t know what to do. I love the hutch with the hidden tv the most. It’s brilliant! But really the whole transformation is just stunning.
Thank you for those kind words! I do agree – antique stores can be a bit overwhelming. I always start with a list of items I hope to find. I usually don’t nail those down exactly but it helps my mind sort through all the junk for the true treasures that will actually work in the space. And yes, the TV hutch is probably our favorite as well. Function meets beauty 😉
hey girl love the porch! So pretty!
Quite luvyl Cami. I like you mix of bought and made. Vintage looking and new. itbgves a space life don’t you think?
Having just worked our patio and outdoor area last year, I can so relate to the excitement. However, living in North Central Florida it is not amplify we use in the summer
It has been a scorcher this year!!
I most definitely agree with you! It appears to be like a well curated room when you can mix old and new, rather than a floor show. I can only imagine how hot Florida is right now. Though its the humidity that kills me. I’m used to dry dessert weather. I really can’t wait until Fall – I think that is when I will enjoy it the most. Thanks so much for coming by!
I love this deck! Maybe I could get my husband to do this! It truly is beautiful!
Thank you! And just start planting little seeds here and there in his brain. It’s another form of art 😉
I have the same IKEA curtains on my porch and I love them. I ordered my directly from Ikea, I’ve also ordered my master bedroom duvet cover and shams and my curtains. IKEA.com has all kinds of great decor items at amazing prices.
Love your deck!
Glad to hear someone else is using them outdoors too. I figure even if they yellow or start to look dingy, they are still far cheaper to replace than anything else would be. Perfect flowy look too! IKEA is great for affordable items like that. Thanks for coming by!
Wow! What took so long? I would not want to go in. Y’all did a marvelous job!
Haha! Right?? We do tend to get stuck sitting out here and the chores don’t always get done 😉 Thank you sweetie!
Wow!!! So pretty! I want one!
Love it all, the sitting area, the hutch (with TV of course), the table, you cute little carts. All of it. And I love the curtains, it just takes it up another level. Makes it so much homey-er!!
You’re amazing. That’s all.
Thanks Sheri dear! My girls are already planning tea parties with yours 😉 The curtains were the very last thing to go up and when they did I felt completely satisfied! P.S. I think you are pretty amazing too!
The transformation is truly amazing!!!
You and your husband make such a great team, I love how every item just complements the next one in terms of functionality and chicness.
And those moments of true relaxation when you feel like time stops for a few seconds and you just enjoy your loved one .. those are priceless.
Hugs,
Diana
Diana / Dreams Factory recently posted…Strawberry Mojito Smoothie
Thanks for your sweet comment on my deck Diana! What kind words. I would have to agree – I live for those moments where life just stops and you can soak it all in with your loved ones. I wish I could grab at those moments more often, but they are truly treasured. Thanks for the reminder! Take care!
What a great makeover, Cami! I honestly love it all but I’m smitten by the rolling cart by the bbq grill. It’s very close to what I want to make for my coffee station. Perfect size too. Then there’s your tv cabinet – sweet! Y’all did good!
Hugs,
Cecilia
Cecilia recently posted…Vacation – Boston and Beyond Part 1
Thank you again sweet Cecilia! I really love that rolling cart as well and it would make a darling coffee station. I’m actually already planning where I can put it in my house when winter rolls around. I think something simple like that could be used so many ways. Thanks again for coming by. You are most definitely a loyal follower and I appreciate it so very much!
So any chance of sharing a tutorial for the cart? ?
Cecilia recently posted…Vacation – Boston and Beyond Part 1
love the new look. everything looks so bright and new. love the finishing touches from your junkie. great job!!! my favorite items were the pergola and the hutch great idea Well done
Isn’t it wonderful how old things can look new and refresh a space! It can be tricky to pull off though. I do love the pergola and hutch as well. Thanks so much for coming by!
Beautiful and truly inspiring! Thank you for sharing your wonderful project pictures.
And thank YOU for your sweet words! So very appreciated!
Where’s that standing ovation emoji when you need it? Cami, Cami, Cami. You and your husband hit a home run with your deck/balcony makeover. It’s wonderful. Enjoy, and thank you for sharing it all. Cheers, Ardith
Ardith – you are such a gem! I just loved your comment on my deck makeover and I’m truly flattered. They should make a standing ovation emoji! How fun would that be?! Thanks so very much for all your support!
Cami, beautiful work. Do you rent Kevin out? Love your creativity and resourcefulness.
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Haha! I should, huh? Thanks so much for visiting and leaving a sweet comment for me. It made me smile so big!