Atrium Entry/Courtyard needs cheering up, budget is under $1000

6 years ago

Hi there Houzzers, I get a lot of great ideas on here so hoping for suggestions. Our 1979-built home has an open courtyard entry with good potential. It's North/South facing, gets plenty of light, but pretty blah. The improvements budget is limited and I will do the improvements myself so hoping for ideas on plants and decorative additions that a petite woman can accomplish. My days of lugging landscape boulders are past, lol. Ferns grow well in the area and maybe a small pond with interesting pond plants would be cool, if anyone knows a plan for one. Thanks!!

Featured Answer

Bette P

6 years ago

Oh, I see lots of potential depending on how you might use the space. Is this your main entrance for guests coming into your home? Would you sit here for a cocktail as a couple or sit and read?
I would add a large outdoor carpet or two large matching carpets to breakup the concrete. Change out the security lighting to a pair of lanterns on this wall. At the end wall, you could add a large vintage painted sideboard with plants on top to screen the view of the neighbouring property. Or hang a stained glass panel in the opening or hang potted ferns. I would want comfortable seating if you think you’ll make use of the space. Even a hanging basket framed chair would be fun. You want large scale fewer pieces, not small items. I’d want to paint the ceiling sky blue to cheer it up.

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Comments (10)

P Banos
6 years ago
I'd clear out all the little items, and concentrate on larger, more consistently styled planters.

Since it is protected you can get a nice new bench, maybe in a bright color and paint your door to match. A larger light by the door. Add a table so you can sit there with a beverage or a book. Replace the spotlights with an attractive light fixture if possible. Remove tiny wall hangings, if you replace select something of a larger size that has some personal meaning. Can't see your door, but consider a cheerful doormat. Maybe an outdoor rug in a seating area. Make an idea book for yourself and try to pull together looks that appeal to you as a starting place.
freedomplace1
6 years ago
I agree with many of the ideas from P Banos and my first thoughts were also fewer but larger planters and some nice lighting/light fixtures. Also, I don’t know if there would be an area for a colorful canopy over a door. I love wildflowers and they are one option for adding vibrant color and interest.
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User
6 years ago
Great ideas. I like the big planter concept and painting the bench and front door a bright color 😊
ptreckel
6 years ago
If thinking of a water feature, consider a large (cobalt blue?) urn that oozes water into a bed of river rocks. Nothing tricky like a Tuscan fountain, or a plastic koi pond. I would look into a really cool rustic, shabby chandelier for the area. Unexpected. And a more substantial bench with a pillow or two. Have fun! (I am petite, too! It is amazing what we can accomplish, no?!). Good luck!
User
6 years ago
Wow these comments and photos are great. Thank you ptreckel and Bette P for inspiration. If the area were more comfortable I would sit out there for sure so painting the ceiling, adding big pots, and putting in a comfy bench with cushions would probably be my first things to do. I like the idea of a big cobalt blue pot with maybe some pretty river rocks around the base, that would look cool if I coordinated the blue with the bench cushions. Thanks you guys!
P Banos
6 years ago
Well, get started and come back with updated photos. I've always wished my outside area had a roof.
User
6 years ago
Thanks P Banos, I will get everything lined up for Fall because it's close to 100° in Sacramento these days. 🔥🥵
ocotillaks
6 years ago
I could see the space having a herb garden in a stock tank planter. Tractor Supply has different sizes.
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L.A. Kornell
Original Author
6 years ago
Thank you, those are really cool!