We were thrilled to be featured in Southern Living for their piece on refreshing outdoor spaces for summer! Being asked to share our approach to creating beautiful, comfortable outdoor living areas was wonderful—this is where Southern design truly shines, blending tradition with modern comfort.
Publication: Southern Living
Article Title: 8 Outdoor Decor Swaps for a Fresh, Summer-Ready Space
Publication Date: May 15, 2025
Author: Lauren Jones
Southern Living explored how to refresh outdoor spaces for summer with thoughtful design swaps that add both beauty and function. The article showcases practical updates that transform patios, porches, and courtyards into comfortable seasonal sanctuaries—perfect for the long, warm Southern summers we love.
The Complete Design Framework I Shared:
When Southern Living asked about our favorite outdoor refresh ideas for summer, here’s the comprehensive approach I recommended:
As a designer based in the South (Athens, GA), I’ve found that a few thoughtful swaps can completely transform an outdoor space—whether you’re working with a small budget or planning a full refresh.
Handmade Ceramic Planters
One of my favorite ways to update a space is by adding handmade ceramic planters in vibrant hues or unique patterns. They’re one of my go-to finds at estate sales and thrift stores. Lately, I’ve been especially drawn to terracotta pots reimagined with botanical motifs or geometric designs in bold colors that echo our region’s architectural and cultural heritage.
Thoughtful Lighting Upgrades
Lighting can also help shift a space from purely functional to truly magical. Swapping standard fixtures for handcrafted iron or copper lanterns adds depth and character. Solar-powered options have come a long way, offering more flexibility and style for outdoor spaces than ever before.
Outdoor Fabrics with Southern Character
I love outdoor fabrics that feature native flora like magnolias and azaleas—but in unexpected colorways. It’s a simple, low-effort way to breathe new life into existing furniture. Performance fabrics have also made it easier to add flexible seating, like oversized floor pillows in moisture-resistant materials. These not only add color and texture, but they also encourage conversation and accommodate multi-generational gatherings—a true hallmark of Southern hospitality.
Multi-Functional Pieces
For smaller spaces, multi-functional pieces are essential and often a budget-friendly way to refresh your space. Ceramic garden stools, for example, can serve as side tables, extra seating, or pedestals for summer blooms.
Haint Blue Porch Ceilings
One of my favorite porch refresh ideas? Paint the ceiling in traditional haint blue. It’s a timeless Southern tradition that brings both history and a sense of calm to any outdoor retreat.
Cooling Elements for Southern Summers
And of course, cooling elements are non-negotiable for summers in the South. Beyond ceiling fans, I often recommend discreet misting systems for covered porches or courtyards. They’re practical, but they also add a luxurious, resort-like layer of comfort that clients truly appreciate.
Common Outdoor Design Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
Mistake: Treating outdoor spaces as an afterthought
Fix: Design outdoor rooms with the same intention as interior spaces. Define zones, create focal points, and layer lighting just as you would indoors.
Mistake: Choosing indoor fabrics for outdoor use
Fix: Invest in performance fabrics rated for outdoor use. They’ve come so far in style and texture that you won’t sacrifice beauty for durability.
Mistake: Forgetting about shade
Fix: In the Southern summer, shade is essential. Add umbrellas, pergolas, or shade sails to create comfortable gathering spots even in peak afternoon heat.
Mistake: Overlooking drainage and weather protection
Fix: Ensure proper drainage for planters and consider storage solutions for cushions and accessories during heavy rain or off-season.
Mistake: Neglecting evening ambiance
Fix: Layer lighting at multiple levels—overhead, task, and ambient—to create a magical atmosphere after dark when Southern evenings are at their best.
Why This Approach Matters:
The beauty of refreshing outdoor spaces in the South is that we have so much natural inspiration to draw from. It’s not about chasing trends—it’s about creating comfortable, seasonal sanctuaries that feel rooted in place and ready to be enjoyed all summer long.
At The Intentional Design Studio, we believe outdoor spaces are extensions of the home—they deserve the same level of thoughtfulness and intention as any interior room. When designed well, these spaces become where life happens: long dinners, morning coffee, afternoon reads, multi-generational gatherings. That’s what Southern living is all about.
We’re so grateful to Southern Living for the opportunity to share these insights with their readers!
Read the full article on Southern Living →
Want more design tips for your outdoor spaces? Check out our post here on creative ways to find beautiful, budget-friendly treasures for the garden.
Curious to see what else we’ve been featured in? Explore our full collection of press mentions and expert insights on our Press Page.
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