Our favorite budget-friendly Better Homes & Gardens patio furniture from Walmart and a refreshed DIY pool cabana reveal.
Five years ago, Robert won a trip through his old job for the two of us to stay at the Delano Hotel in South Beach, Miami.
The trip was incredibly luxurious and felt worlds away from our everyday life. After that stay, I couldn’t stop picturing those hotel-style VIP pool cabanas as the ideal outdoor retreat.
A week later we moved into our current house and set out to recreate that vacation feeling in our backyard.
The DIY Backyard Transformation and Our Favorite Better Homes & Gardens Patio Furniture
When we first moved in five years ago, the pool area needed a lot of work. It took time, sweat, and investment, but the transformation has been worth every effort.
Over the years we’ve completed multiple DIY projects to bring the space from dated to inviting, and the results made it possible to build the relaxed, hotel-cabana vibe we love.
Today our backyard looks much more like a relaxed Delano-inspired cabana—minus hotel staff, of course. With the major DIY projects complete, we focused on updating the outdoor seating using pieces from the Better Homes & Gardens line at Walmart.
DIY Pool Cabana: Walmart Patio Furniture Refresh
To make the DIY pool cabana feel more like a lounge and dining spot, we chose a sectional dining set from the Better Homes & Gardens outdoor collection. It’s designed for multipurpose use—perfect for relaxed conversation and outdoor meals.
The sectional includes removable cushion covers, which makes it easy to protect the cushions from rain and seasonal pollen. It’s available in several finishes; we selected the natural wicker look to suit our palette.
Update: One year later this set remains our top pick for the pool area. The resin wicker still looks great and the cushions have held up well.
The sectional set includes stools that slide neatly under the dining table, which is great for saving space and offering extra seating for kids fresh from the pool. The wicker is a durable resin, chosen to withstand weather and sun. The steel frame adds sturdy support, making the set suitable for both lounging and dining.
Outdoor Accent Furniture
I recently found a teak wood bar cart secondhand, which has been perfect for keeping pool snacks and drinks within reach. A bar cart is a simple upgrade that makes entertaining by the pool much easier.
For accessories, I’ve added shatterproof outdoor glassware, a compact bar set, and a bowl for fruit—practical items that help keep things tidy and pool-friendly.
Favorite Better Homes & Gardens Outdoor Decor
Small details help the space feel complete. Tabletop tiki torches are handy once mosquitoes become a problem, and a scalloped planter adds a soft, decorative touch.
I prefer neutral outdoor pillows because they are easy to update and mix with other accents over time. Choosing neutral textiles keeps the look versatile and timeless.
Top Better Homes & Gardens Outdoor Dining Furniture Picks
Outdoor Dining Table
We replaced our weather-worn wooden table with a metal dining table that has a wood-look finish. Paired with metal patio chairs, it offers a durable option for outdoor dining that resists the elements while maintaining a warm aesthetic.
Top Walmart Planter Picks
I added compact planter sets on the tables to bring in greenery and texture. Affordable planters can have a high-end look and are an easy way to refresh outdoor dining areas.
Better Homes & Gardens Outdoor Dinnerware
To avoid disposable plates, we use marble-look melamine dinnerware outdoors. It’s lightweight, durable, and more sustainable for frequent outdoor use.
Better Homes & Gardens Outdoor Lounge Furniture
Our back porch conversation set has been a favorite. It includes protective covers, which are helpful for pollen season, and even after being exposed to winter weather it has remained comfortable and durable. The glider chairs make the porch a relaxing place to sit and unwind.
Our Pool Before and After
Seeing the progress over five years has been incredibly rewarding. The project demanded a lot of effort and investment, but it created a space where we love hosting pool parties and making memories with friends and family.
We look forward to many more summers enjoying this space. The work has paid off in the form of quality time and countless moments shared outdoors.
Our DIY Pool Projects
- DIY Painted Concrete Pool Deck and Patio
- How to Paint Vinyl Siding & Pool Shed Makeover
- DIY Pergola Cabana Reveal
- Our Modular Outdoor Kitchen Built in a Day
- Swimming Pool Liner Makeover Reveal
Better Homes & Gardens Outdoor Decor Sources
We regularly update the outdoor decor and furniture pieces to keep the look fresh and functional. Small changes—new pillows, planters, or a bar cart—can dramatically improve how you use your outdoor living space.
Are you planning any backyard projects soon? Even short bursts of outdoor time during warm spells can be refreshing—so take advantage of the good weather and enjoy the space you create.
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