Summertime is almost here, and if you’re like me, you’re probably eager to spend less time cooped up indoors—and more time out in the sun! Whether you like to barbecue or swim, or just lounge with a cool drink and catch some rays, your porch or patio is likely to be your favorite place to unwind during the summer months.

With so much time spent outdoors, investing in your patio furniture is a must. Whether you dream of hosting summer block parties, or just want a quiet nook to read in the sun, we’ve got tips to help you maximize your patio’s potential!

1. COZY ENCLAVE

Want to bring some of the comfort of the indoors, outdoors? Cozy up your patio furniture with durable outdoor pillows, and keep your feet warm in cool mornings with a beautiful indoor outdoor area rug. Tall plants or a lattice work fence can provide some much-needed privacy, and create the illusion of an outdoor “room.”

2. TRADITIONAL PORCH

If you love the look and feel of a classic Southern porch, an old-fashioned porch swing is a must. Keep it traditional in clean, whitewashed wood, or repurpose an antique for a quaint, homey feel. Add well-manicured flower beds and an American flag and then you’ve got a porch straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting.

3. POOLSIDE BUNGALOW

Is your pool looking a little naked? Turn your backyard into a tropical paradise with resin wicker furniture. Adding a retractable awning can provide a cool haven from a bare pool area, and a sturdy indoor outdoor area rug can give wet feet relief from hot concrete or tile. Don’t forget a side table or two for resting icy summertime drinks!

4. PARTY HEADQUARTERS

If entertaining is your jam, utilize a spacious yard with multi-level patio and deck. Encourage your guests to mingle by arranging patio furniture into sitting areas. Umbrella tables offer shade, while an indoor outdoor area rug can define a space and give each sitting area a finished feel. Even with the sun setting later in the evening, outdoor lighting is important for late-night parties. Save money—and energy—by hanging solar patio lights.

5. TOASTY FIRE PIT

Want to enjoy outdoors in the chillier months? Consider building a fire pit for s’mores and weenie roasts in the fall. Invest in some aluminum chairs—they’re durable and easy to move, perfect for crowding close to a cozy fire when the weather starts to get a little nippy!

6. OUTDOOR DINING ROOM

There’s nothing quite like spending the evening dining al fresco at your favorite restaurant—so why not bring that delightful experience home? A heavy, wrought iron dining set will stand up to the elements and save you from having to pick plastic chairs off your lawn every time the wind blows. Pillows and an indoor outdoor area rug can add a cozy, homey feel, while potted plants and trellises make the most of the outdoor dining experience.

Whatever your summer plans are, investing in outdoor area will transform your yard into the perfect stay-cation spot! Make your patio or porch sizzle—before these sun-soaked months’ slip away!