Before & After: A Dull Deck’s Flower Power Makeover

Julia Brenner
Julia Brenner
Julia is a writer and editor living in Chicago. She's also a big fan of old construction, new design, and people who can pull off a wink. She is not one of those people.
updated May 5, 2019
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I like this makeover because the “before” deck looks like many decks extending from city apartments. In fact, cut it in half and take out the hot tub (or, take out the very best parts), and it looks a lot like my own back deck. But all hot tubs aside, I’m inspired to see how some very doable changes totally transform this flat space into a lush outdoor living area.

(Image credit: Apartment Therapy)

What strikes me about the “after” is how homey it looks. I think the addition of border flowers and small potted trees mixed with the softening effect of colorful outdoor rugs and plush cushions creates the feeling that this is a place you can curl up with a good book, talk with friends, or enjoy a nice meal. It doesn’t just look pretty, it looks cozy. This is something I’d like for my own deck this year: cozification, which isn’t a word, but it should be.

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