Aileen Allen’s interior and lifestyle blog, At Home in Love, provides readers a fresh look at mixing bright colors throughout a home. The Seattle-based blogger covers everything from fashion to food to—of course—DIY projects.
For The Home Depot Patio Style Challenge, Aileen found a way to make her small patio space have a big impact. Starting with the Hampton Bay Cottage Grove 3-Piece Bistro Set, she added additional elements like a Fire Sense Fire Pit and Garden String Lights to give the area a warm and inviting feel.
We sat down with Aileen to learn more about her decorating style and Patio Style Challenge backyard transformation.
What sparked your passion for decor?
I’m not sure what it was that initially sparked it, but I’ve loved decorating and design since I was a kid. I first subscribed to Dominowhen I was in high school—when all my friends were reading Seventeen.
What did you work on for The Home Depot Patio Style Challenge?
Our patio was essentially empty before I started this challenge—definitely not a place where we hung out. I wanted to make it a cozy space where my husband and I could relax together this summer, and maybe even entertain guests. We added globe lights, a fire pit, a grill and cheerful accessories…plus, of course, a patio set so there’s a comfy place to sit and soak up the sun.
What lessons have you learned during this challenge?
I would say that it’s okay to keep it simple. When I first started planning, I had lots of crazy ideas, and I felt like I had to do something I’d never seen anyone else do before. In the end, all the choices we made were pretty simple and classic—and I’m happy about that.
What are 3 tips you might give to others trying to design their patio?
- Make a plan, and measure before you buy anything major.
- Pressure wash before you start bringing in decor (I wish I’d taken before and after photos of our patio—the difference was HUGE).
- Globe lights—they’re inexpensive and bring magic to any outdoor space.
Do you have any advice for aspiring bloggers?
Have fun with it! Make connections with other bloggers, and blog about what it is that you love. Being true to yourself and letting your own personality and interests shine through will help you to stand out.
Want to learn more about Aileen’s Patio Style Challenge experience? Check out more on The Home Depot Blog.
