From Planter to Patio Table
A Beginner-Friendly DIY
One of the easiest ways to elevate an outdoor living space is by adding a beautiful coffee table—but designer versions can easily cost several hundred dollars.
This simple DIY transforms an inexpensive planter and wood round from Lowe’s into a stylish outdoor coffee table in less than an hour. Best of all, the removable top creates hidden storage for blankets, citronella candles, or outdoor games.
No power tools or experience required!
Supplies You'll Need
(We picked up everything at Lowe’s)
🪴 Allen + Roth Chocolate Brown Glazed Planter
(Optional)
Step 1
Sand the wood lightly.
Wipe clean.
Apply one coat of Special Walnut stain.
Allow to dry.
Step 2
Seal with two coats of satin polyurethane.
Lightly sand between coats if desired.
Step 3
Once dry, simply place the wood round on top of the planter.
No screws required.
The weight keeps it in place while still allowing the lid to lift off for storage.
(I LOVE this feature.)
Optional Upgrade
If you'd like a more designer look...
Glue four champagne bronze cabinet knobs evenly around the bottom of the planter using E6000.
These create the look of decorative feet without any complicated woodworking.
Hidden Storage Ideas
Store things like:
• Outdoor blankets
• Citronella candles
• Matches
• Coasters
• Small throw pillows
• Playing cards
• Bug spray
• S'mores supplies
⭐ Winterhaven Design Tip
One of the easiest ways to make budget-friendly DIY projects feel high-end is to combine natural wood with rich ceramic finishes.
The contrast between the warm walnut top and the glazed planter creates the look of a designer coffee table at a fraction of the cost.
Budget Option
Want to spend even less?
Swap the ceramic planter for the bronze resin planter.
It creates the same look while reducing the overall cost and making the table lighter to move around your patio.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes the best DIY projects aren't about building something complicated—they're about seeing everyday items in a new way.
With one planter, one wood round, and a little stain, you can create a timeless outdoor coffee table that looks custom-made and doubles as hidden storage.
Shop our favorites and make this entire look your own…
🪴 Planters
Bronze Resin Planter (perfect for mums)
Metallic Brown Ceramic Planter (beautiful coffee table base or statement planter)
Small Brown Glazed Planter for layering
Tall Rust Resin Planter for trees
Small Woven Planter Basket for Outdoors
Large Woven Planter Basket for Outdoors
🌿 Greenery
(Or substitute with a 6’ faux palm for a timeless tropical look.)
🖼 Wall Decor
🪑 Outdoor Seating & Tables
💡 Lighting & Decor
🧺 Rugs
✨Winterhaven Living Tip
When decorating seasonally, invest in timeless foundation pieces first—beautiful planters, quality outdoor furniture, classic lighting, and natural textures. Then refresh the space each season with inexpensive accents like flowers, pillows, candles, or greenery.
Your foundation stays the same while your home evolves with the seasons.
Save This Idea for Later
Love this look? Save it to Pinterest and come back whenever you're ready to decorate your patio for fall.
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