Don’t let worn-out walkways or tired turf sabotage your sanctuary.

Have a knack for overlooking the little stuff?

Id much rather define a space with a change in materials or thoughtful landscaping," Martin says.

Large terrace patio with rattan garden furniture in the garden on wooden floor

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So, whats the issue with outdoor rugs?

For Martin, theyre dirt magnets.

PVC versions may hold up better against dirt, but they come with their own pitfalls.

Real photo of an armchair, pouf as a table and wicker couch on a terrace

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They tend to fray and end up looking more like flyaway tarps than high-end floor coverings, she says.

Theyre gorgeous for a photo shootbut not built for real life.

Want more design inspiration?

Large terrace patio with rattan garden furniture in the garden on wooden floor

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Design pros agree: uniform furniture sets just dont cut it anymore, indoors or out.

It just makes the whole area feel a little sad, she says.

But those broken lattice-strapped loungers?

typical sun lounger chair - photo

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Unless you’re about to re-strap those yourself, they’re perhaps best left to the scrap heap.

Hibachi grills that have seen better summers are lightweight and easy to tuck away out of sight.

For built-in models, though, cleanup is less negotiable.

Earthenware pots on retail display in front of a wood wall

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Fire burning on barbecue grill at yard

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