Exterior

My Budget-Friendly Pool Patio Refresh for Summer

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June 18, 2025

I’m Allison.
Design obsessed and self-taught DIYer, I'm so excited to share my journey with you, and be a source of inspiration as well as a resource.
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Gimme that

Summer is officially here in Nashville, and after my never ending bathroom renovation and trim work, it felt like time to turn my attention outside. Specifically, to my pool patio—aka the place I spend every free second once the weather warms up. This little corner of my backyard has been a workhorse over the years, but after seasons of sun, storms, and a fringe umbrella that finally gave up on me last summer… it was time for a budget-friendly pool patio refresh.

While I have big dreams for this space long-term (black cast iron loungers with wheels, I see you), this year was all about doing what I could within a budget—and spoiler: I’m so happy with how it came together.

Keeping My Teak Loungers

Let’s start with what stayed. I’m still using my trusty teak lounge chairs from a few years back. They’ve aged beautifully and still have that classic, resort-style charm I love. Would I love to eventually swap them for black cast iron loungers with wheels that give off a retro Palm Springs vibe? Yes, absolutely. But teak is timeless, and for now, they’re still working hard and looking good.

The Cushions: Luxe Look, Not Luxe Price

The biggest upgrade this year? New chaise cushions. I found these white ones with beige piping and was immediately impressed by how plush and tailored they look. They’re thick, comfortable, and the piping gives them a custom, designer vibe without the custom price tag. They instantly elevated the look of the entire patio.

Oh, and if you’re getting new cushions or umbrellas, make sure you protect them right out of the gate! I like to use Scotchguard spray made for fabric. It will extend the life of everything for me!

Shop Chaise Lounge Cushions

The Umbrellas: Scalloped & Showstopping

I also swapped in two new double valance umbrellas, and I’m obsessed. The double scallop detail feels vintage and elegant, and they provide the perfect amount of shade without blocking the view. Last year, my umbrella couldn’t handle even the slightest gust of wind—and honestly, I was tired of it blowing over.

There are so many cute patio umbrellas on the market I had such a hard time picking one, but I thought this one was classic and would go well with the updated house exterior colors. Simple, timeless and I can dress up the rest of the area later with some accessories. Here are just a few of the umbrellas I was pining over when designing the new patio set up!

Scalloped tiered umbrellas

The Best “Look for Less” I Can’t Gatekeep

So let’s talk about my favorite find of the summer: the umbrella tables. I had my eye on these beautiful ones from Frontgate—gorgeous, cast stone, and $529 each. But I needed two, and the math was mathing… in the wrong direction.

Then I stumbled on an almost identical version at Sam’s Club for $150. Yes, $150. Same weight, similar silhouette, and multiple styles to choose from. They’re heavy enough to keep the umbrellas stable in wind and look just as high-end. I nearly did a cartwheel in the parking lot.

Umbrella Table (several shapes and finishes to choose from)

What’s Next for the Budget-Friendly Pool Patio Refresh?

Eventually, I’d love to layer in an outdoor rug to keep the pavement from getting quite so hot (and to ground the whole seating area visually), but I’m letting the new core pieces settle in first. I’ve learned that outdoor spaces evolve just like interiors—layer by layer.

For now, I’m enjoying slow mornings with coffee out here, weekend pool dips with friends, and a setup that feels elevated and achievable.

Shop the Look

Here’s a roundup of what I used in this year’s budget-friendly pool patio refresh:

Pin this post for later, or follow along on Instagram where I’m sharing more behind-the-scenes on this summer’s outdoor projects. And if you’ve been waiting to upgrade your outdoor space on a budget—consider this your sign.

Related:

My New Copper Lanterns

The 2025 Project List

My Moody Exterior Makeover

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