Indoors, four walls define a room but outdoors you set the stage. Approach outdoor decorating like you would any other space - by choosing furnishings and accessories that celebrate your style. Begin your decorating project by clearing everything from your porch or patio area. This not only gets you creative juices flowing, it gives you a more accurate impression of the space you have to work with. Options for patio surfaces are extensive. Be sure to pick a surface that matches your style and remember, every surface will have its pros and cons and no surface is truly maintenance free.

Décor

A porch not only welcomes visitors, it gives visitors a first impression of your home. Make your home's entryway a visual treat that set the mood for what's to come. A key element in decorating a porch is the doormat. Visitors always look down at their feet before entering someone's home so make sure your mat is not worn or faded and that it presents the image you wish to covey.

Other display items that add character to your porch or patio include door art, plants and stands, vases, wall art and wind chimes. Lush garden plants that frame outdoor areas also add color and texture to your design. When choosing to use potted plants, be sure to keep in mind the amount of care they will require. A simple cactus or no plant at all is more inviting than a stylish Terra Cotta pot filled with brown, wilted petunias. Also, avoid over decorating. Too much of anything will make the space feel cluttered and messy.

Furniture

The type of furniture you select for your porch and patio will depend on the available space and how that space will be used. Will you be entertaining, grill outdoors, or tanning and relaxing in the sun? An area used for parties should have space for mingling. If your patio will be used for relaxing or dining, include shade trees or arbors in your planning. If it will it be used year-round, consider adding a fireplace or outdoor heaters for those brisk evenings. For small areas like a terrace or balcony, choose simple, compact furnishings like a galvanized bistro set that can turn the space into a cozy place to relax and entertain.

The next step is to determine a focal point. If you have a view used it as your focal point and give every seat unobstructed access to the view. If your patio has no obvious focal point, you can make one of a firepit, a water display or an outdoor table. Once you determine your focal point, select and arrange furniture in relation to it.

Patio design is not only important to the comfort of a home - it is a selling point. Don't underestimate the value of staging curb appeal when selling your home.