This Patio Redo Features the Smartest Trick for Hiding an Ugly AC Condenser
I’m 100% not a summer person — give me fall all year long! — and this past week of scorching temperatures has been especially brutal. Even so, I can’t help but daydream about gorgeous patio setups that provide the perfect place to dive into a fresh summer read or sip on a cup of coffee in the morning (before it gets too hot, of course). And one of the patio projects that’s been coming to mind lately is this redo from a couple of years ago: a serene coastal-inspired outdoor escape.
The patio, a fully DIY project, isn’t just pretty to look at — it’s also filled with really clever ideas that are totally copyable. Here’s what I love about this space.
Terracotta tiles add instant character.
The old faux turf was pretty lackluster, and below it was a plain concrete slab. To dress it up, the DIYer tiled over top with terracotta-look tiles that make the patio feel totally high-end. Even without any other changes, this was a major improvement.
The furniture is DIY.
I was so impressed to read that the seating here is DIY, as it looks like something you could buy in a store! Even if you’re not ready to make your own furniture, it’s a great reminder that you don’t have to limit yourself to what’s on shelves — fresh paint or new cushions are always an option.
Breezeblocks hide an ugly AC condenser.
Perhaps my favorite element here, though, is the way this DIYer hid the ugly AC condenser without compromising its functionality. To make this eyesore look a little less conspicuous, she used vintage-inspired concrete breezeblocks with a cute floral pattern to build a wall around the unit. Because the blocks provide plenty of airflow, the unit can continue to operate efficiently (but without drawing the eye).
Ready to daydream about patios along with me? Check out more of this DIY patio makeover here, and get even more inspiration for small backyards here.