How to create a chill out corner on the terrace without spending a lot

Chill out style basics 

First of all, what is a chill out space? This increasingly trendy term is just a reference to a specific area for rest and relaxation. It’s a relaxation area where we can be at ease without anything or anyone disturbing us, or at least trying to. 

The best part of having an ode to relaxation and well-being at home is that you can incorporate it practically anywhere. Moreover, the budget required won’t break the bank. We’re going to give you some basic tips to set one up outside your house. Specifically, on that beautiful terrace you have that’s screaming for a makeover. Let’s take a peek! 

Materials and colours for a chill out zone 

The top recommendation for decorating a chill out space in an outdoor area, whether it’s a terrace, garden or balcony, is to choose furniture and fabrics designed for the outdoors. Why? Because anything exposed to the elements is going to face quite extreme weather conditions: intense heat, rain and other weather that can ruin your wonderful chill out corner in a flash. And we’re not going to let that happen! 

Add some good pallets or mats 

This area needs somewhere special to relax for hours on end. So, as an alternative to outdoor sofas, we suggest two affordable, but equally comfortable and beautiful ideas. If your budget is a bit tighter, or you simply want something different and artistic, these are our recommendations:  

Do you have any spare pallets or wooden crates? Give them a coat of paint (we also recommend a layer of special outdoors varnish for extra durability), add some soft mats and cushions and your affordable, relaxingchill out area is ready.  

Our second suggestion is inspired by the essence of chill out and involves placing some mats on the floor. This option is very practical too if, instead of a terrace, you have a balcony and every inch is valuable. The mats enable you to set up and take down this area whenever you need it. It’s best to put them against the wall as support for some cushions for your back. Oh! Of course, make sure that there’s enough padding so you’ll be truly comfortable. Add some blankets so you don’t get cold at night and relax!

Combining fabrics 

Now that we have the base or structure for a chill out corner on the terrace, it’s time to decorate it to create that oasis of relaxation. How exciting! And the best part is that it’s really easy to decorate without spending a lot of money. Look! 

Our top recommendation is to try combining different fabrics. Do this just by changing the cushion covers. Super simple.!  

You can choose fabrics in natural tones (cream, earth tones and even dark shades like green or blue)to enhance that feeling of calm and well-being. But, if you prefer, you can also give it touches of colour with a mixture of tones and patterns.  

A tip: if you have enough space, it doesn’t hurt to have a bench or wardrobe where you can store everything. This will make everything last longer and remain perfect. And if you don’t have room, don’t worry. Set aside some space in a cupboard inside and that’s all you need. 

A touch of green 

Is there anything more relaxing than the scent of plants? While it’s not essential for this style, we suggest you reserve a space for a few plants or flowers. They’ll give the space a very cosy touch.  

Plants help refresh the environment and the bigger ones like small trees offer extra shade, which is great for summer. Also, if you invest in perennials, they’ll last for years at a really affordable price. You can even replant the stems that you prune as they grow and get more plants for the price of one. Nice trick, right? 

Lighting for your chill out corner

If you want to add extra lighting to enjoy your chill out corner even when it’s dark, LED lights are a great option. They are super affordable! If you go for the solar-powered ones it will cost you nothing in electricity. If that’s not enough, they’re much more environmentally friendly! It’s a perfect option, right? 

A strip of LED lights, combined with other items, like a solar ceiling lamp, will give you the right amount of light so that you can enjoy the afternoons and nights in your private paradise.  

Oh! Why not add some candles? You can choose the scented variety or opt for some with a bit of natural repellent, such as citronella. This will stop the mosquitoes from spoiling your evening and means you won’t have to resort to chemical repellents or ointments for bites. 

Protect yourself from the sun 

If your terrace has lots of sunlight, you can control the amount of light with a pergola or an umbrella. 

Yes, we know this isn’t exactly low-price but it’s an investment that will save you money over time. By controlling the temperature of the space and decreasing sun exposure, you’ll be protecting your furniture and lengthening its life. It even protects you and your guests from getting too much sun! Who can relax with heat stroke? Not us, that’s for sure. Of course, even if you’re under the shade of your wonderful pergola, don’t forget to apply sunscreen from time to time because you can still get sunburnt from under there. 

A bit of music? 

Now that you’ve managed to create your coveted chill out corner, you just need the final touches. In addition to decorative elements, such as the ones we discussed in the previous sections, we suggest going one step further.  

What if we add a playlist to this relaxing moment to match those good vibes? Create the ideal soundtrack with the help of a Bluetooth speaker and complete the perfect atmosphere of your chill out space.  

A tip: if you don’t have a speaker, you can make a home-made one for your mobile. You just need a roll of paper, two small Styrofoam cups and some scissors. Cut the side of the roll (just wide enough to fit your mobile) and insert each end of the roll into each cup (near the base). Add your mobile, hit ’Play’ and your speaker’s all ready! 

And... now what’s left? Do you know the best part? That’s it! Time to enjoy your little corner!