5 outdoor decor pieces designers say you should always thrift to give character and charm to your backyard

When it comes to thrifting, I'll scan the home decor shelves long before I stop to consider the outdoor pieces on offer. My head instantly turns at the sight of a vintage vase, a charming print, or even a piece of ornate glassware. However, summer's imminent arrival has meant that timeless outdoor accessories like vintage furniture sets, rustic urns, and antique pendants have been cropping up everywhere, making me entirely rethink my garden design for the better.

While you might think that thrift stores, flea markets, and estate sales are the answer to a one-of-a-kind interior, you can give your garden a similar dose of charm and character by decorating with vintage. I spoke to design experts who say that outdoor decor and furniture is one of the key things you should always thrift. They love to source second-hand pieces for their backyard projects, and they suggested an array of elegant accessories that will ensure your design is equally as eclectic as your interior.

The beauty of these pieces is their classic artisanal qualities, making them not only a cost-effective investment by shopping them second-hand, but a clever choice for a lasting porch, backyard, or balcony.

1. Vintage lighting

No outdoor space is complete without a reliable lighting source. You can find all sorts of interesting garden lighting at antique markets or thrift stores, from classic mid-century pendants (like the beautiful example pictured above) to more ornate Moroccan-inspired lanterns.

Garden lighting trends for 2025 are all about embracing vintage styles, so look to a secondhand source to ensure your scheme is both on trend and timeless. The beauty of shopping for lighting second-hand is the character it can give to the area. For example, the porch above was designed following the home's traditional architecture. The designer, Liz Caan, installed a subtle (yet complementary) lantern to give the entrance a hint of sophistication that illuminates the area in the darker hours.

Your local thrift store could stock something as simple as a vintage tealight holder that levels up your outdoor table and chairs, giving the area some character and coziness, perfect for al fresco dining and hosting.

2. Rustic pots and urns

Whether you prefer a cottage garden idea or a Mediterranean garden idea, there's always room for a rustic pot or planter. Reliable for their ability to bring earthiness, texture, and sophistication, second-hand pots have plenty of patina and are worn in the best way possible.

Liz Caan says, 'I’ve always believed in the charm of beautifully weathered pots and urns – the more moss-covered, the better. There’s something timeless about lead-coated pieces with a rich, natural patina that new items simply can’t replicate.'

Hattie Hansard from Joanna Wood Interiors agrees that thrifted pots are great for adding character to a backyard. 'I think what initially comes to mind (although quite obvious!) are pots, planters and urns, the bigger the better. I love when terracotta has aged really nicely, and it really makes a garden feel like it's been there for much longer if the stoneware and ceramics have a good patina to them rather than being squeaky clean. Look for Anduze-style pots or old English lead planters, often available at reclamation yards.'

3. Ironwork

To embrace the traditional country garden look, keep an eye out for metal and ironwork like a garden gate or an ornate arbor for flowers to grow around. These pieces are examples of sophisticated, artisanal design that will stand proudly for years due to their sturdy compositions.

Liz explains, 'When it comes to architectural details like iron gates or pergolas, older pieces were often crafted with superior materials and techniques, built to endure generations. In many cases, these vintage elements offer a level of quality and soul that’s hard to find in today’s mass-produced alternatives.'

Bronze or iron obelisks, like the example pictured above, look great paired with dainty climbers like sweet peas and can break up a one-dimensional section of your garden.

4. Dining sets

Outdoor dining sets are often far cheaper when sourced second-hand and have a characterful, aged quality that newer varieties lack. Although you might be put off by pieces that are a little tarnished, classic styles are typically made from metal, meaning there's nothing a lick of paint or varnish can't fix.

Hattie adds, 'Another idea is vintage wrought iron furniture, which is beautiful and incredibly durable. Vintage sets, often with ornate scrollwork or lattice patterns, can be revitalized with a wire brush and fresh coat of paint. I would look out for makers like John Salterini or classic Mid-Century British or French garden sets. They often have a lovely patina and elegant proportions.'

If an elegantly shaped table and chairs have caught your eye but it's surface is a little worse for wear, consider how to paint garden furniture to give it a new lease of life.

5. Armchairs, loungers and rocking chairs

Comfortable seating can make all the difference to a garden, porch, or balcony, transforming the area into an enticing and snug area for rest and relaxation. You can find all sorts of second-hand seating styles at thrift stores and flea markets, proving you don't have to spend big bucks on the best outdoor furniture.

A vintage rocking chair is the perfect accessory for your porch or veranda, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the view from the comfort of your home. Or, a cozy rattan armchair would make a welcome addition to a backyard in need of some seating, giving the area a pared-back feel perfect for summer hosting.

A second-hand lounger is often cheaper than newer options and can give your garden a nautical charm, particularly if you source a classic wood frame style with a striped fabric.

Second-hand decor and furniture can make a garden look older, giving any balcony or backyard a dose of patina and character. The beauty of shopping for pre-loved pieces for the garden is that any design will appreciate some vintage pieces, particularly newer creations that lack rustic qualities.