We’ve been living in this house for 27 years, and somehow, the terrace never made it to our “let’s fix this next” list. It used to feel alive when the Santol tree stood nearby—its branches offered shade, and the breeze carried that subtle, earthy scent that made afternoons feel slow and peaceful. But ever since the tree was cut down, the space feels… empty. Too quiet. Too bare.

Every time I pass by, I imagine what it could be—a cozy corner with warm lights, soft chairs, and a few plants swaying gently in the wind. It’s one of those dream projects that sits patiently in the back of my mind, waiting for the right time (and funds) to finally happen.

For now, planning feels like my first step. So, while the terrace stays simple for the moment, I’m taking notes, saving ideas, and picturing how it might look once it finally becomes the calm, inviting spot I’ve always wanted.

Seeing Potential in an Empty Space

An empty terrace can look uninspiring at first—just tiles, a wall, and open air. But every bare space holds potential if you start with a simple question: What do I want this space to be? A quiet corner for coffee? A breezy spot to read?

Once you know your purpose, ideas start to form naturally. Notice how the light hits during the day or which side feels more private. Those small details help shape your plan. Take a few photos, sketch over them, or rearrange things you already have—a spare chair, an old lamp, maybe a rug you’ve tucked away.

You don’t need to buy anything yet. The goal is to start seeing possibilities instead of emptiness—to imagine what could make that bare corner feel a little more like home.

Planning the Layout

Like I said previously, it helps to picture how you’ll actually use your terrace. Do you see it as a morning coffee spot, a quiet reading area, or a place to unwind after work? Knowing its purpose makes it easier to plan where everything should go.

For our terrace, I’m considering adding a canopy—not just for style, but for practicality. Here in the Philippines, the weather can turn in a minute, and a canopy would make the space usable even when it rains. It would also provide shade on hot days, keeping the terrace comfortable without feeling enclosed.

A retractable awning

If your space is small, think in zones instead of trying to fit everything in. A slim table and two chairs near the railing could be your coffee corner, while a bench with soft cushions against the wall can serve as a reading spot. Leave enough room to move around so it feels open and easy to navigate.

It also helps to pay attention to where the light and breeze hit throughout the day. Some corners might get too bright in the afternoon—great for plants, not so great for sitting. You can always add curtains, bamboo shades, or potted plants later to soften those spots.

Take a photo of your terrace and sketch over it, or use your phone’s markup tool to try out layouts. It’s a small step, but it helps you see what works before spending a peso or lifting a chair.

Choosing Furniture That Feels Right

Rattan chairs with removable cushions

Since the terrace is outdoors, comfort must meet weather resistance. I’ve been eyeing rattan furniture with removable cushions—something cozy enough for lounging but sturdy enough to handle heat and humidity. The cushions can easily be brought inside when it rains, which makes maintenance a lot easier.

When picking pieces, it’s best to think lightweight and multipurpose. A small rattan set with a table and two chairs can double as a coffee nook or a place to work on slow mornings. If space allows, a bench with storage underneath could hold cushions or small tools for your plants.

You may start by buying the basics and adding as your space evolves. You might find a secondhand rattan piece worth restoring or even a wooden stool that fits perfectly beside your favorite corner.

Outdoor furniture doesn’t need to match perfectly—it just needs to feel inviting. The goal is to make the terrace comfortable enough that you’ll actually use it, whether for reading, writing, or simply sitting still for a few quiet minutes.

While browsing online, I stumbled upon this rattan chair from IKEA—the BROBOCK/BJÖRKTRAST. It instantly caught my eye because it perfectly matches the look I’m going for: light, airy, and simple. The cushion is sold separately, but that’s actually great since I can pick a pattern that fits the terrace’s color scheme later. At ₱8,999, it’s not exactly cheap, but it feels like a worthwhile piece that could anchor the space and make it feel more inviting.

Creating Warmth with Lighting and Textures

Our terrace gets plenty of sunlight during the day, so I want it to feel magical once evening sets in. My plan is to hang warm string lights across the canopy and place a few solar lanterns in the corners for that soft golden glow. Maybe even a couple of rattan lamps to match the furniture and keep the vibe natural.

To make it cozier, I’ll add removable cushions and a simple outdoor rug — something easy to clean but still inviting. The goal is to make the terrace feel like a warm extension of the house, perfect for quiet nights or small catch-ups under the lights.

Bringing Life Through Greenery

A beautiful rubber tree

No cozy terrace feels complete without a touch of green. Plants bring that instant sense of calm and freshness. I’m imagining a mix of hardy greens that can handle the outdoor setup.

A rubber tree would make a great anchor plant — tall, sculptural, and low-maintenance. I might place it near a corner where it can get filtered light but still be protected from the rain. I’ve also thought about an olive tree, though I’m not sure it would thrive here with our weather. Maybe I’ll settle for something similar — perhaps a dwarf ficus or even bamboo palms for a tropical touch.

To tie it all together, I’d love a few smaller potted herbs like basil or rosemary. Aside from their scent, they’ll make the terrace feel more alive — and useful too.

Final Thoughts

Maybe this terrace project won’t happen overnight, but just thinking about it already brings a bit of calm. Sometimes, it’s the vision of what could be that keeps us inspired through busy days. One day, I’ll sip coffee out there, surrounded by soft lights and quiet. Until then, planning it is its own kind of joy.

What about you—if you had a blank space waiting to be transformed, how would you make it your little escape?