We’re finishing up edits on our CBS6 live interview clip, so in the meantime we wanted to share this beautiful patio makeover. When Julie and Mike sent their before-and-after photos, we couldn’t wait to show them. Here’s the note they included:
We love the DIY before & after posts featured on home renovation blogs, especially yours. Reading your blog is often the push we need to tackle another weekend of Home Depot runs and household projects. For the past few months we’ve been updating our first home — a small coastal ranch — and while not every minute has been fun, it’s been full of learning, creative fixes, and satisfaction. We’ve been planning an outdoor space to relax and entertain and finally made it happen. We were so excited about the result that we had to share the photos with your readers. On our own renovation blog there are bonus photos and a step-by-step photo diary of the work in progress. These days, our favorite room is actually outside the house. — Julie & Mike
For readers curious about where everything came from and how much it cost, here’s a concise breakdown of their purchases:
- Wellington gazebo from Target — $249
- Indoor/outdoor rug remnant from Home Depot — $20
- Better Homes & Gardens patio set from Walmart — $249
- Buddha candle holder from Target — $9.99
- Mosaic capiz end table from Bed Bath & Beyond — $19.99
- Three small plants from IKEA — $0.99 each
- Solar string lights from Sam’s Club — $14.99
- Total: $564.00
Thanks again to Julie and Mike for sending these inspiring photos. Their transformation shows how an inviting outdoor room can be created on a modest budget. Instead of a costly addition, they built a comfortable, stylish retreat for under $600 — a practical and impressive outcome any homeowner can appreciate.