Whether you live in a house, an apartment, or a condo, chances are you have some space just outside your back door where you can relax in a comfortable chair and feel the breeze. Your patio is a little oasis where you can retire when the day is done. Fixing up your patio doesn’t have to be a huge project, though. You can quickly and inexpensively transform even a small, uninteresting space into your own private retreat.

1. The Chair

Not just “a” chair. THE chair. The one you are going to be fantasizing about while you’re sitting in rush hour traffic. Depending on your style and budget you may go for a fancy, cushioned seat; or you might feel more at home in a rustic rocking chair. Whatever it is, it should make you sink into it and not want to get out. At least, not until it’s time to refill your drink.

2. Plants

If you live in a high-rise condo, you can fill your patio with greenery by planting in containers. If you’re lucky enough to have some terra firma to work with, make sure you put it to use. Even if you don’t consider yourself a “gardener”, those plants are well worth the effort when you finally sit down and get a chance to drink in their soothing beauty. If you aren’t sure where to begin, go to a local nursery and tell them you’re looking for some simple, no-hassle plants for your outdoor patio. They will ask you a few questions and then recommend some things that will suit your lifestyle.

3. Hummingbird Feeder

A small feeder kept full with hummingbird food will bring attract some beautiful little visitors that you can enjoy while you’re sitting outside. It is a wonderful, inexpensive way to bring wildlife to your patio without a lot of mess or fuss.

4. Citronella Candles

These are now available in a gazillion shapes and styles, but they all do the same thing: Keep the bugs away! If you want to relax outside in the evening (which you most certainly want to do), you need a couple of these to light. Not only are they useful, but they provide a nice ambiance.

5. Shade

If your patio already has some kind of cover, then good for you. But if you are like a lot of people, you’ll need to find a way to create some shade so that you don’t fry when you want to sit outside in the summertime. There’s no need to start a major construction project–you can find large stand-up umbrellas or attachable shades that you can roll out or retract as needed. You’ll enjoy your outdoor space much more if you can keep cool while you’re there.