Search

Search
Close this search box.

How to Create an Outdoor Space that Guests will Never Want to Leave

Hi Everyone. I have shown sneaks and peeks of my courtyard but decided I should finally do a full tour. The former owners designed this lovely courtyard space. All we have done is add our collected style to the space. Let’s chat about How to Create an Outdoor Space that Guests will Never Want to Leave.

So, come on in!

design blogger Cindy Hattersley's courtyard entry

When we purchased this house this area was empty. I am not sure what they had planned for the space. It has great high ceilings but no power for a light fixture. We decided to create a light fixture out of an old iron wine bottle caddy from Patine. We added a large flameless candle that is on a remote. We suspended it with some handmade chain leftover from light fixtures we had made over the years.

courtyard-entry-ceiling

The room is fairly good-sized. If it didn’t have the niche on one side I would have added some sort of old round outdoor funky table.

How to Create an Outdoor Space Guests Will Never Want to Leave

cindy hattersey's courtyard entry

I am not sure what the former owners envisioned for this space. I should have asked. We were lucky to find a big chunky console piece from Habitat Home & Garden. If you follow me on Instagram you have seen it. We had the old rack in the mudroom of our old home. I envisioned a “coming in from work off the rancho” look. I would love to find an old sombrero (how did they get so pricey?) and a few other items to finish it up, but in the meantime, I am using what I have. Any ideas? FYI the sweet former owners left me the cool paddle that she purchased at the Long Beach flea market. I wonder if she intended to use it here? I also thought about hanging it above the rack. Steve wasn’t keen on that idea.

cindy hattersley's courtyard entry rack

Opposite this console was a bare wall that I originally planned to hang the rack on. Steve had made this cool mirror out of old ceiling tiles years ago that resided in our wine room in Chualar. I wanted to use it somewhere but didn’t care for it above the console I like it here. The sconces are old (thrifted as they now say) and resided in our former family room before the tv went in. The candles are flameless as well.

cindy hattersley's courtyard foyer with mirror

This is the view when you enter the courtyard from the little foyer. On the right is an antique bench that Steve’s brother gave to us years ago. We had it under the eave outside my office in our Salinas rental house. At the end of the courtyard under the windows are two chairs we purchased last year from World Market and are no longer available. I will link all available items and replacement options at the end of the post.

cindy hattersley's-courtyard-view-from-entry

The pillows on the bench are from Pottery Barn and are linked at the bottom of the post. The cushion is custom made in a Perennials Indoor Outdoor fabric. We already had the black bench and the black chairs below, so I decided to combine the black and natural colored wicker pieces for a more collected look. I think some shutters would be great in this area at some point.

courtyard bench cindy hattersley

These great black Malawi chairs came from World Market last year. I ordered eight and only received seven before they were sold out. I have linked similar chairs at the bottom. The small table is from Home Dept and is part of a set of two chairs (used on the back patio). You can see how I used these chairs in my former town garden in my post Before and After Backyard Transformation.

world market chairs in cindy hattersley courtyard

As I stated in my recent post Five Simple Tips for Hosting a Farm to Table Dinner, the table is from Dovetail. It is not meant to be outdoors but the area is entirely covered. We will have to cover it in winter.

outdoor dinner party cindy hattersley's courtyard

These vintage European shutters(from Patine) were inside in our former homes. The vintage Portugese baskets came from Atelier de Campagne. Atelier de Campagne has wonderful vintage garden finds at their home shop. They have a new container coming soon from Europe. You can check out their website for more information on that and all of the markets where you can find them as well.

intage shutters and portugese baskets

We love the fireplace area. We have not used the fireplace or the gas lights yet. I am sure we will in the fall. The big planters are from one of my favorite haunts Atelier de Champagne. We filled them with lime trees.

cindy hattersley courtyard seating

The chairs are from Ballard designs (linked below the post), and the pillows are from Pottery Barn (no longer available) similar linked below. The small black tables are from Frontgate.

cindy hattersley's french style courtyard

The coffee table is from Dovetail (it is also not meant to be outdoors and will need to be stored in the garage in winter or covered). I linked similar below. I could not find a coffee table that combined the elements that I wanted for this area. The sofa is from Pottery Barn and linked below the post as well as the rectangular umbrella. Sofa pillows are custom-made in outdoor fabric.

cindy hattersley's courtyard with tower in the distance

The bowl on the coffee table is vintage filled with recycled glass balls that you can find on Etsy here. The stone orb is collected (similar linked at the bottom of post). The small black tables are on sale at Frontgate now (linked below). Some of these small accent tables are not tall enough in my opinion and look diminutive next to chairs. These are a nice size.

cindy hattersley's courtyard-fountain-area

The watering cans I have had for several years, the vintage galvanized planter is from Patine. I think she still has them if you call her. The former owner’s found the fountain in France. Isn’t it great?

cindy hattersley's courtyard fountain

If you missed my post on my concept for this courtyard, you might enjoy checking how closely I followed My New Courtyard Design and Sources. Sometimes things are no longer available and sometimes I change my mind. You might also enjoy seeing my courtyard decorated for fall in Easy Foraged Outdoor Fall Decor you will Love.

SHOP THE POST

Thank you for reading How to Create an Outdoor Space that Guests will Never Want to Leave. Have a great weekend. I will be back on Sunday with my pals Annie and Mary Ann with our favorites.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says

    Cindy, I have been hoping that you would share your beautiful courtyard. What makes this space(like all of your spaces) special and unique is all of the wonderful pieces that you have used, collected, made and have had for many years. The stories and memories that come with each piece make them even more special. I love EVERYTHING!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Elizabeth

      Thank you so much. You are so thoughtful. In creating a collected look we all are telling our own stories. You are so right.

  2. Gray says

    Like I’ve said before – vacation every day!!!
    SO WONDERFUL! You reminded me of those glass orbs – we used to sell tons of them in the store. I think I will do a bowl outside, instead of trying to grow small pots on tabletops, that wilt and die in our hot hot summers….

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Gray

      I agree with the small pot thing. They constantly require water and just wilt in the hot weather!!

  3. kim says

    Cindy if ever a house had your name on it, this is it! It’s so very beautiful and the things you and Steve already own, plus your finds are just perfect in here. I can’t believe you found that long console. It looks so good with the row of hooks.. And in my opinion, you don’t need a thing out there besides the hat and basket.. Looks so wonderful. I like the idea of the oar up there.
    What a smart solution to create a lantern out of the non-electrical one from Patine and a timed light! You guys are so smart. I love Patine too. You obviously have found the best treasures. I have pinned everything! You could make a living just telling people how to create gorgeous outdoor spaces.. I love the seating group so much…Oh and the fountain is super cool too. A lot to love. I would be outdoors all the time!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Kim

      You are so kind. You know I absolutely love your home and everything you have done to it. It is just so you.We do feel very fortunate to have found this place It suits us and it has great outdoor space!!

  4. Annie Diamond says

    Cindy! This is just gorgeous! I every detail! I can only imagine how beautiful it looks at dusk with the lights! That piece you found for the pass through is so cool. I spy one of your Libeco throws! You have the best style, Cindy.
    xx

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Annie

      Thank you so much. You certainly did spy the throw. I need something that is not as pricey and indestructible for that spot! Any ideas?

  5. Barb L says

    Gorgeous! What a great space for entertaining small or larger gatherings. Love how you are able to use things you had in your former homes and have added a few new things that work together beautifully. Thanks for sharing!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Barb

      I am a big proponent of using what you have for a more collected look as you know. I find it much more interesting than a bunch of new stuff. The things you collect and gather tell your story.

  6. Juliet says

    Cindy … wow! Your home is amazing and you’ve pulled things together with the blink of an eye. Ha. I’m sure it doesn’t feel that way to you. The outdoor areas are magnificent. You had so many pieces of the style and scale to appear they were made for the space. And the pieces Steve made … the lanterns and mirror. I’m bowled over by the fabulousness. Your home reminds me of a wonderful shop in Sonoma, Salsa Trading Company. I always loved every single piece in the place … of course none of them work in my home. Can’t wait for more to be unveiled form your new shangri-La. xo

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Juliet

      Oh if only that were true. I am only showing the spaces that are presentable! We love Sonoma and have been there way too many times to count but I know nothing of the Salsa Trading Company. I think maybe we have passed by but never stopped. Maybe I am missing out.

  7. Judie Olivero says

    I don’t remember EVER not liking what you do with your houses both inside and outside! You always inspire me to make changes! ( Granted, those changes sometimes involve moving things just a few inches here, and a few inches there. ) Those few inches are vitally to my house, my patio, MY LIFE! ) Thank you for sharing your talent

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Judie

      It’s funny I rarely move things either. Every once in awhile I do, but once I find the spot it rarely moves!!

  8. Karen B. says

    Hi Cindy,
    I love what you’ve done to the courtyard. The pieces you brought from your other home fit perfectly and the collected look is so welcoming. Thank you for sharing pics of your new home. I’m always getting ideas to use in my cottage.
    Karen B.

  9. Sharon says

    Cindy, I love how you found new places for all of the loved furnishings from both Chualar and the rental (plus the garage!!!). It all looks so wonderful in this stunning courtyard. I bet you spend many hours there enjoying your new home. I am so happy for you and Steve!

  10. Carol Heartfelt Whimsies says

    Cindy— I was looking forward to seeing your outdoor area and it’s just beautiful!! I definitely love a collected look and really admire how you bring a space together! I could definitely spend an evening relaxing out here!! Enjoy!!

  11. Wren says

    Hi again, I have too much time on my hands today while I recover (you’ll know). I went back and looked at your spaces again and the third picture gave me more thoughts. I don’t think you need much in that space leading into the courtyard. It’s perfect as is, IMHO, and leads the eye into the real living area. When I look ahead to the lushness of the plants and the cushioned seats, I just want to go hang out there after passing through the breezeway (if it can be called that). Be patient and see how it “lives” for you!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Wren

      You and I are on the same page. I definitely do not want to clutter it up. The architect who designed our former home said that of our former entry. Keep it simple so you draw the eye beyond.

  12. Von love lau says

    Perhaps a vintage western vaquero bridle/headstall with an ornate vintage bit would look good hanging from the peg rack. Also an older cowboy braided lasso/lariat would go with the Rancho look.
    There are some awesome rustic carved wood saddle stands and racks out there, that look great even without a saddle under the mirror. But eBay has some beautiful antique western saddles.
    Love your new house!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Von

      Interesting you would say that. My husband meant to bring some of our old tack down this weekend to try. We have it all! We have an old saddle as well. We will give it a try!

  13. Maureen Morton says

    Just lovely. Enjoy. After I live with things for a bit, that is when I know if a change is in order. Thank you for sharing.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Maureen

      Exactly! That is my M.O as well. I drug out what I already own. Some of it will work, and some will not. Patience is a virtue, right?

  14. Katherine says

    Cindy, you and Steve have created such an inviting feeling throughout your back garden.
    It amazes me how much you have accomplished in such a short period of time.
    Please be sure to tell hubby what a fabulous mirror he has crafted. Such talent. You two make such an excellent team. Our little saying that we live by is, “back to back we can conquer the world.” That pearl reminds me of you two. You both are blessed with such keen insight. I hope your kids have picked up on your genes.
    Your guests will not only not want to leave. They will want to move in with you guys. Be careful what you create. 😊

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Katherine

      I love that saying! Our kids definitely have vision as well, and love a mix of old and new.

  15. Barbara at Mantel and Table says

    Such wonderful spaces Cindy! You must be having so much fun decorating and spending time in them. It’s obvious your guests enjoy them too! 🙂 Thanks for the tour and inspiration!

  16. Diane Ruebel says

    Dear Cindy,

    Your new home is even more incredible with your extraordinary creativity. I especially love the warmth from textures and patina. May you, Steve, your family and friends, inhabit every inch in love and joy.

    Diney now living on Mercer Island, WA

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Diney

      Thank you so much. Our kids are here this weekend and we were just talking last night about what a good move it has been for us. We love it here.

  17. Sue says

    In my designing, form always follows function. So, not knowing how the “room” is used is limiting my confidence in my suggestions. If it’s just a pass through area, I would try moving the console to the opposite wall with or without the peg piece above it. You could leave the mirror and sconces above the console. Because the console is not deep, it seems like it would not protrude too much. In place of the console I would find a table to back up to the wall. I have an iron and glass top table – actually a console – that works well against a wall. It’s deep enough to hold a really large urn with a tall and full dried arrangement lending a soft organic feel. Because that side is recessed, you might be able to use something more substantial than the thin console – maybe a table 24 to 30 inches deep. The mirror and sconces could go over the table and still give you space for some soft, organic accessories. Just my thoughts.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Sue

      Great Suggestions! Actually, the console is deeper than it appears in the pictures. I originally planned to hang the mirror above the console but did not like the combination of the two. They sort of “cheapened” each other if that makes any sense. Keep those ideas coming though! I definitely need some big stuff for the console. I am not one to run out and buy as you probably can gues. I tend to live with something and figure it out as I go. That’s what I appreciate your suggestions!

  18. Gail says

    Absolutely divine, Cindy. You are a master at all things collected, whether it be inside or out, it’s always perfection. Love it all!

  19. Debra says

    I have been enjoying your ideas for awhile now – love all you do! Thank you for sharing.

    • DoT says

      Cindy the courtyard looks great. Picking up on earlier comments, how about setting up a bar in the breezeway. . Dot

      • Cindy Hattersley says

        Hi Dot

        I need to get to the earlier comments, but that is absolutely what we plan to do. We are planning a neighborhood party and will do just that!

  20. Vicky says

    Fun space! I’m playing with battery/LED/timer/remote lightbulbs for a lamp in my courtyard that I found on Amazon. No electricity required! Could be a nice addition on your sideboard.

  21. Joan says

    Thank you for sharing all your beautiful treasures. and the gift and love you have for entertaining. I would like to know where the shop “PATINA” is. Have a wonderful summer

    Joan

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Joan

      Patine is in Santa Cruz. She has container unloadings several times a year and a darling shop. We have picked up many things for our home over the years. If you are local or in CA you can easily go to Dani’s shop and Atelier Campagne in a day. They are both in the same area.
      Patine
      1001 41st Ave, Pleasure Point, CA

  22. Karyn says

    Hi Cindy,

    Such a lovely space and I love how you show us how to reuse things we already have.

    Templeton is such a pretty area. I hope you and your family enjoy your new home there.

    One thing you may want to update is the link to Atelier. I think it is Atelier de campagne. English language spell check is probably adding an “h” on you. Bad spell check!

    Have a great day and please keep the house and garden updates coming!

  23. Linda says

    Just lovely Cindy. I agree with Steve in the oar, too traditional and that wall perfect.

  24. Wren says

    You are a sorcerer (wizard) and source-er by which I mean you find things from so many sources. I love how you curate and combine to come up with such great settings. You and Steve are the dream team. I kind of like the idea of an outdoor rug in the entry mentioned by another reader. Maybe something southwestern looking? As long as it was secure, wouldn’t trip people and could be cleaned or wouldn’t matter if it got a bit soiled. The rest is perfect because maybe less is more. All I can say is, you better have enough guest rooms for the friends who never want to leave!

  25. Kim says

    What a gorgeous space: so inviting and thoughtfully curated. Have a general question: while the cushions are made of outdoor fabric, do you leave them out all season or store away when not in use? Thanks.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Kim

      We put our cushions away once it begins to rain a lot (if it ever does). We have a storage space that we can keep all of our cushions.

  26. Joyce gius says

    How beautiful this space is. You have done a great job styloit using what you had and adding to it. Your rental yard inspired me in designing my own back yard. Enjoy your beautiful new home.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Joyce

      Thank you so much. I think it is important to use what you have and try to make it work. I probably would not have used black if we started from scratch, but I liked the black chairs and so I tried to incorporate the black in the new pieces that we purchased.

  27. Susan D. says

    This is just such an inviting space. I have a question. I am familiar with the Paso Robles area and think it is beautiful. It is so different from our location (Texas). The issue we have with outdoor spaces is rodents–primarily squirrels who chew rattan/wicker furniture and any wood they can get their teeth into. This severely limits what we can leave outdoor for more than a day or two. I am guessing you do not have the same issue at your house!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Susan

      We have always had cats. Our son has had problems in Salinas. We did not because of our cat, I believe. There are tons of ground squirrels here. Our 14 year old cat caught one yesterday!

        • Cindy Hattersley says

          Hi Susan

          Interesting you should ask. We had several ferals in our former home that we adopted. Most of them were outside cats. Before we moved a brother and sister only remained. Tiger passed right before we moved to town. We thought he knew what was coming. He would have hated living in town. “Furrie” as we call her, adapted to town life and was an inside cat for a year. When we moved back to the country, she immediately adapted to her old life and began hunting again!

          • Susan D. says

            That’ is a wonderful report. We live half of the time in a city and the other half at a rural farm–which has wonderful porches. But, since we don’t live there all the time, we can’t take care of feral cats who might help patrol our porches. We have other Texas friends who have outdoor cats on the job for them!

            I love your blog. A friend recently told me about it and now, I don’t ever miss a post.

          • Cindy Hattersley says

            Hi Susan

            I totally understand. Thank you so much for joining us and thank you to your friend for referring me!

  28. Susan says

    What an inviting space! I love all the different areas for socializing with friends and family. You are correct, they’ll never want to leave! This space will get lots of use. Well done!!

    I wonder if your paddle might look nice either above or even below Steve’s mirror. It looks like the colors would blend well with the tiles. I like the console with the shelf above it. They are perfect together!

    I would suggest you turn the two chairs, that are under the window, slightly toward each other. They are in a perfect place for a private conversation; slightly changing their position will draw guests to them. With them placed flat against the wall, reminds me of how they would be placed in a waiting room at a doctor’s office.

    You have a great eye for what works well together to create the mood you are trying to achieve!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Susan

      The paddle could possibly be hung above the mirror though I think it would need to be cut down. I am not sure my husband would go for that but I will certainly keep that in mind as an option!

  29. Harriet says

    I would love to have that space! In the entry I would add a narrow table under the mirror and a large planter in the corner. Maybe even an outdoor rug. It seems to be missing a little color but gorgeous space! Have fun tweaking it to your liking!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Harriet

      Great suggestions. I don’t think any plants would live in that space there isn’t any light otherwise I would. If you left the door opened during the day maybe!

  30. Carrie logan says

    I love the way this area is designed and can certainly see how guests wouldn’t want to leave. Sometimes, though, I’m really read for them to go. 🙂

Edit Content
Click on the Edit Content button to edit/add the content.
• powered by chloédigital