Prep Your Outdoor Spaces: Patio, Porch & Deck Ideas for Spring Entertaining

By Suzanne | ArrangeSpace.com

Spring in Bend is always a bit of a tease. One day it's sunny and 65, the next we're getting graupel on the patio. But I’ve lived here long enough to know: when that first stretch of warm evenings hits, everyone wants to be outside. And I’m right there with them—lighting the fire pit, fluffing the outdoor cushions, and dreaming up a few new ways to make the porch, patio, or deck feel like a true extension of home.

I think the key to great spring outdoor spaces—especially here in Central Oregon—is layering comfort with function. We’re not about formality out here. We’re about barefoot dinners on the deck, sipping rosé by the fire table, and staying out just a little too late under the string lights.

So if you’re like me and itching to make your outdoors spring-ready, here’s where I start:

I clean, then cozy up the seating.
Before anything else, I give my outdoor furniture a good wipe-down—then start layering in the soft stuff. I’m a big believer in performance fabrics. These days, you can find outdoor pillows and cushions in colors and textures that look like they belong inside but can absolutely handle a bit of pine pollen or a splash from the hose. I usually go for neutrals with a few pops of sage or terracotta—those colors play so well with the high desert palette.

I rethink the layout for entertaining.
Sometimes all it takes is swapping two chairs or pulling the dining table closer to the kitchen door. I’ll even drag out a side table from inside if I need another surface for drinks or snacks. I like creating little conversation pockets—places where two people can linger over a glass of wine while someone else tends the grill.

I always keep warmth in the plan.
Even on the nicest days, evenings in Bend get chilly. I make sure our propane fire pit is filled and ready to go, and I keep a stack of washable throws in a basket near the back door. There’s nothing more inviting than handing someone a blanket and letting them curl up while the stars come out. 

I bring the indoors out.
Lanterns, trays, outdoor rugs, even a little bud vase or two—I love pulling in some of the styling pieces I use indoors to make the outdoors feel finished. It doesn’t need to be precious. A wooden tray with citronella candles and a handful of snacks instantly says, you’re welcome to stay awhile.

And finally, I think about how I actually want to use the space.
Am I having the neighbors over for pizza and salad? Do I want a spot to read on a sunny afternoon? Will the kids be running through barefoot, dripping water from the hose? I try to design the space around what spring really looks like in my life—not just what I see in a catalog. (Though yes, I’ll still save about 20 screenshots of dreamy backyard setups for “research.”)

Spring doesn’t last forever here—it quickly turns into full-on summer—but it’s such a lovely in-between season. A time to re-open the house, reimagine your routines, and welcome people back into your space (even if it’s with a fleece on).

Here’s to good meals, soft pillows, glowing fires, and the first truly great days outside. I’ll be out there with you.

— Suzanne