Home Improvement Ideas Patio Design Ideas and Makeovers Patio Designs Blogger Dabito Mixes Color and Boho Decor in His Backyard Patio Inspired by his travels, design-lover and blogger Dabito turned his backyard patio into a destination for relaxation. By Maria V. Charbonneaux Maria V. Charbonneaux Website Maria Charbonneaux is a home and DIY writer, owner and founder of Take Care Creative Co., and a teacher at the Iowa State University Greenlee School of Journalism. She oversees the Dotdash Meredith apprenticeship program at the school and specializes in producing magazine features, photoshoots, and social media at her editorial and design services company. Maria holds a bachelor of arts degree with distinction in journalism from Iowa State University.Maria Charbonneaux has been working in journalism since 2006. She started as an editorial apprentice and intern at Dotdash Meredith, as part of the special interest publications decorating group and Parents magazine team. She stayed with the company for more than eight years as scrapbooks and crafts staff writer, Kitchen + Bath Makeovers editor, and Do It Yourself magazine editor.Maria joined the Greenlee School of Journalism at Iowa State University in 2016. She was the communications specialist for five years, managing the messaging, branding, and visual identity of the school (which consisted of more than 600 students). Her responsibilities included overseeing the alumni magazine, websites, newsletters, and more. She also worked with a team of student journalists to produce content for Greenlee. Now Maria serves as an assistant professor of practice and Dotdash Meredith professional in residence, teaching courses on magazine publishing and leading the apprenticeship program.In 2017, Maria launched her company Take Care Creative Co., where she takes on editorial design projects for clients like magazine features, photoshoots, and improving social media presence. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process Published on April 15, 2021 Share Tweet Pin Email Trending Videos Even when Dabito isn't traveling, he can walk outside his Los Angeles home and feel like he has landed in a favorite destination. The founder of the creative studio Old Brand New transformed a once-drab covered patio with pieces from online retailers accented with global finds, creating a spot for relaxing, reading, and hummingbird-viewing. David Tsay There are some actual souvenirs: pillows in colorful woven alpaca wool from Cusco, Peru, and embroidered cactus silk from Morocco. Other details are more subtle nods, like the hanging ferns that remind him of New Orleans, where he and his partner live part-time. A warm-cool color mix weaves together the eclectic pieces from his life experiences. Take a Peek at Dabito's Revamped Bungalo "It's really about incorporating all the ingredients—a lot of color, plants, and texture, some vintage, and personal pieces—to make it fun and festive to remind me I'm home," he says. Practicality takes precedence outdoors. Most pieces are stain-resistant and can be power-washed, like the sofa cushions upholstered in Sunbrella and the Acapulco chairs. He stores small, non-weatherproof items like the Moroccan pillows inside. To recreate Dabito's colorful bohemian style, look for sunny colors, teak and rattan furnishings, and nubby, geometric-pattern textiles. What does style mean to you? "Style is something that reflects your personality. It's being bold, letting go, being unapologetically yourself." What's in your creative toolbox? "Traveling is my No. 1 muse because I get to see how different places, different designers, different cultures use color. I get a lot of inspiration from fashion as well. Also, plants and nature never fail to inspire me." What do you do when blocked creatively? "I take a nap. I sometimes get inspiration in that space between sleep and being awake. Rest is so underrated and so important." What's your best style advice? "Don't overthink it. Just do it. Have fun with decorating and being you." 01 of 05 Colorful Patio Chairs Courtesy of Wayfair Create a comfy spot for relaxation or conversation with this set of outdoor chairs. The seat is made of rattan and finished with a sunny yellow color. The weather-resistant design can be easily cleaned with mild soap and water when needed. Buy It: Englewood Outdoor Hammock Weave Patio Chair ($213 for set of two, Wayfair) 02 of 05 Wood Outdoor Furniture Courtesy of Overstock A solid acacia frame gives this outdoor loveseat a sturdy foundation. It features two twin sectional pieces, so you can easily customize your seating area. The cushions are covered in water-resistant polyester fabric and come in beige, blue, dark gray, red, and white. Buy It: Oana Outdoor 2-Seater Sectional Acacia Loveseat, ($526, Overstock) 03 of 05 Palm Plant Courtesy of Walmart Liven up your outdoor space with a statement-making plant like the majesty palm. Its large fronds will grow well in a brightly lit spot. Pair it with a colorful planter for added style. Buy It: Costa Farms 10-Inch Majesty Palm ($40, Lowe's) 04 of 05 Patterned Outdoor Rug Marty Baldwin Tie your patio together with a boldly patterned outdoor rug. Shades of blue, teal, and white create an eye-catching geometric design. The rug is made of polypropylene for durability. Buy It: Avalon Home Mackay Ikat Diamonds Indoor/Outdoor Rug ($21-$253, Hayneedle) 05 of 05 Geometric Stool Courtesy of Anthropologie This ceramic stool can stand in as a stylish side table or extra seating when necessary. The glazed ceramic surface showcases a geometric design with metallic accents. It's weather-resistant and suitable for outdoor use. Buy It: Cathy Terepocki Ceramic Stool ($148, Anthropologie) Updated by Liz Strong Liz Strong Instagram Liz Strong is a Los Angeles-based photographer and interior designer.She has worked as a decor and home editor for Coastal Living, producing and styling content as well as art directing projects from start to finish.Liz is the founder of her eponymous company, Liz Strong Style, where she often collaborates with clients and publications, including Better Homes & Gardens, for editorial and advertorial features. Learn More Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit