Are you looking to transform your backyard or courtyard into a stylish and inviting retreat? Cue the cabana! With the right cabana setup and decor, any outdoor space can become a haven for relaxation, gatherings, or enjoying outdoor movies at home. Thoughtful additions like comfortable seating and ambient lighting instantly enhance the atmosphere, blending style with comfort.
Whether you envision a lush, private oasis or a charming nook for morning coffee, a well-designed cabana space can make every moment outdoors feel special. Keep scrolling for our favourite outdoor cabana inspo and styling tips!
Related article: Decorating a rental outdoor space or balcony: Styling tricks and hacks to personalise the space
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Choosing the right cabana setup for courtyards
When designing an outdoor cabana space in a courtyard, aim for a balance of style and functionality. A courtyard offers room for a larger setup, where you can incorporate comfortable sectional seating or a dining table within the cabana. This setup is ideal for hosting friends and family and creating a social area for dining or relaxing.
Top tips to choose the right cabana for your courtyard:
- Assess the space: measure your courtyard carefully to ensure the cabana will fit without overwhelming the space or obstructing pathways
- Consider its purpose: decide whether you want the cabana for lounging, dining, entertaining, or as a multipurpose space. This will guide your choice in size, design, and features
- Choose a style that complements your home: look for a cabana design that aligns with your home’s architectural style or courtyard aesthetic, whether modern, coastal, or classic
- Opt for durable materials: select weather-resistant materials like powder-coated steel, treated wood, or UV-protected fabrics to withstand outdoor conditions and maintain their look over time
- Think about shade and comfort: ensure the cabana offers adequate shade with a solid or retractable roof and side panels for wind or sun protection if needed
- Plan for privacy: look for cabanas with privacy screens, curtains, or panels, especially if your courtyard is overlooked by neighbours.
Creating a cosy cabana-inspired balcony
If you think you can’t channel cabana vibes on a balcony, think again! Balconies may be smaller but can still feel like cabanas with the right setup.
How to make your balcony feel like a cabana oasis:
- Create a luxe seating area: choose compact, cabana-inspired seating, such as a mini canopy or folding chairs, which save space and add personality. Consider a hanging chair or compact bench with storage underneath.
- Layer outdoor fabrics: use cabana-style striped or colourful fabrics for outdoor cushions, throw blankets, and curtains. These details create a cosy vibe, turning your balcony into a mini-retreat you can enjoy even on cooler evenings and instantly evoke the look and feel of a luxury cabana.
- Add tropical touches: decorate with potted palms, hanging ferns, or vibrant flowers to bring in a lush, tropical vibe. These are the top 20 plants that thrive in pot plants and we talk more about adding greenery below.
Luxurious styling for spacious setups
For those lucky enough to have a dedicated cabana, or even multiple outdoor zones, the styling possibilities are endless! Think of your cabana as a private oasis or poolside hangout with ample seating options like lounge chairs, daybeds, or cushioned sofas for an inviting vibe.
With a dedicated structure, you could also set up a refreshment station or incorporate an outdoor kitchen. This could be as simple as a small bar cart or table with drinks and snacks, or a fully-integrated kitchen with bar fridge and sink.
Add that final layer of style by incorporating elements like lanterns, shade curtains, and a small coffee table. Use weather-resistant materials to handle sun and moisture, ensuring your space remains stylish and durable throughout the year.
Adding greenery for a natural vibe
Greenery is essential for creating a relaxing atmosphere. Whether you’re setting up in a courtyard, on a balcony, or in a dedicated cabana area, plants bring life and colour to your setup. Use large potted plants in a courtyard cabana, hanging plants on a balcony, or palms around the dedicated space for a tropical, relaxing feel. Even small planters or garden boxes can transform a tiny balcony into a green oasis, enhancing the fresh-air ambience.
Using rugs and lighting for a cosy feel
Rugs and lighting are a must for a well-styled setup. Outdoor rugs help define spaces, especially in courtyards. Choose colours and textures that match your seating and cabana-style. Lighting is equally important, with string lights, lanterns, LED candles, and solar lights all adding to the welcoming atmosphere. A well-lit area feels inviting, allowing you to enjoy the space even after sunset.
Personalising with accessories
We’ve mentioned accessories a few times but they deserve their own section because they just make a space. Personalised accents by the way of decorative pillows, throws, lanterns or decor like statues finish the space. As well as the accessories we’ve mentioned, like potted plants and outdoor rugs, you can also add water features or outdoor art to make the space feel like an extension of your home.
Mix colours and textures for depth and interest. You may like to channel a particular interior style, such as boho with rustic textures and earthy tones, or stick to the classic resort vibe.
With the right setup, your balcony, courtyard, or outdoor cabana can become a beautiful and functional outdoor space. Whether you prefer a lush cabana getaway, a minimalist balcony, or an inviting courtyard, these styling ideas will transform your space into a retreat that’s perfect year-round.
Has our round up of cabana ideas inspired you to spend more time entertaining outdoors? Which is your fave space? If you give your outdoor area a makeover, we’d LOVE to see it! Be sure to tag us on Instagram or share your styling ideas in the comment section below.
More outdoor styling inspo here
