Sheinelle Jones has a new outdoor oasis, and it’s proof that even the most ordinary patio can become a personal paradise. During a recent episode of TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle, the co-host walked viewers through her apartment patio’s complete transformation, sharing every step of the process from barren concrete to a lush, welcoming retreat.
From Empty to Elevated
“I recently moved to a new apartment with a completely empty patio. I always wanted to entertain, especially now,” Sheinelle explained. The space was a blank canvas—no furniture, no plants, no personality. But Sheinelle had a vision: she wanted an area that felt both luxurious and comfortable, perfect for hosting friends and relaxing after long days.
To bring that vision to life, she turned to Crate and Barrel and enlisted one of her “favorite people in the world,” designer Preston Konrad. Konrad is known for his ability to blend high-end style with livable comfort, and he immediately understood the assignment. “She’s got all this beautiful new furniture but we need the layers, we need the personality and it has to feel like her,” he said.
Who Is Sheinelle Jones?
Sheinelle Jones is a familiar face to morning television viewers. As a co-host of the third hour of TODAY alongside Jenna Bush Hager, she has built a reputation for being warm, relatable, and effortlessly stylish. Before joining the NBC show in 2014, she anchored the morning news in Philadelphia, where she covered everything from local politics to human-interest stories. Her journalism career has earned her multiple Emmy nominations, and she continues to inspire audiences with her authentic approach to storytelling.
Despite her busy schedule, Sheinelle prioritizes creating a home that reflects her personality. The patio makeover was more than just a design project—it was about carving out a space where she could feel safe, relaxed, and connected to the people she loves. “To have a place where I feel safe and zen and I can entertain with people I love, I’m so thankful,” she said.
The Design Concept: Indoor Comfort, Outdoor Charm
Preston Konrad’s main goal was to bring “character and personality” to the space. He didn’t want the patio to feel like an afterthought. Instead, he envisioned it as a natural extension of Sheinelle’s apartment—a series of functional “rooms” that flow together seamlessly.
His plan was to divide the patio into three distinct areas: a dining space for meals, a living area for conversation, and a cozy nook for reading and quiet moments. “It’s about creating zones that feel intentional,” Konrad explained. “You don’t want one big open space that feels chaotic. You want it to feel like multiple indoor rooms, each with its own purpose.”
The camera caught Sheinelle sitting in her new nook, holding a copy of The Shampoo Effect, the latest pick for Jenna Bush Hager’s book club, Read With Jenna. “I told Jenna this is all I wanted. I wanted a little nook where I could read books and relax,” Sheinelle said. It was a small moment that encapsulated the entire makeover: the patio wasn’t just about impressing guests—it was about giving Sheinelle a personal retreat.
Design Tips Anyone Can Use
Konrad’s approach to outdoor styling is highly adaptable. Whether you have a sprawling backyard, a compact deck, or a modest balcony, these tips can help you create a space that feels curated and inviting.
1. Layer Rugs at a Diagonal
One of the first things Konrad did was lay down rugs—but not in a straight line. “Layer rugs at a diagonal,” he advised. This simple trick adds depth and visual interest, making the space feel more dynamic. It also helps define different zones without needing walls or dividers.
2. Use Faux Plants for Effortless Greenery
Not everyone has a green thumb, and that’s okay. Konrad recommends incorporating faux plants to bring life to the space. “Faux plants have come a long way,” he noted. “They look incredibly realistic, and they don’t require watering or sunlight.” For Sheinelle’s patio, faux greenery added a lush, tropical vibe without the maintenance.
3. Mix-and-Match Throw Pillows in Clusters
Pillows are an easy way to inject color and texture. Konrad suggests mixing different patterns and fabrics, placing them in clusters rather than arranging them symmetrically. “Don’t be afraid to combine stripes, solids, and botanicals,” he said. “The more relaxed and varied, the more it feels like you.”
These small styling choices make a big difference. By layering rugs, incorporating greenery, and playing with pillows, you can transform an empty patio into a cozy, inviting space that reflects your personality.
Entertaining in Style: Food and Drinks
Of course, no patio is truly complete without the promise of good food and refreshing drinks. To get ready for hosting, Sheinelle called in another friend, culinary expert Krissy Downey, to demo some of her favorite party recipes. The pair prepared a Hugo Spritz—a light, bubbly cocktail made with elderflower liqueur, prosecco, and fresh mint—and a savory vegetable tart. Both dishes are perfect for summer entertaining: easy to make, beautiful to serve, and full of fresh flavors.
Once the patio was ready and the food was prepared, Sheinelle welcomed her friends to celebrate her newly decorated outdoor space. The group raised their glasses in a toast to “summer, friendship, and good times.” For Sheinelle, the moment was the culmination of weeks of planning and hard work. “I’m literally never leaving,” she joked.
The transformation was more than just cosmetic. It gave Sheinelle a space to unwind, recharge, and connect with others. In a world where so much of life happens indoors, having an outdoor sanctuary has become increasingly important. Sheinelle’s patio is a reminder that with a little creativity and expert guidance, anyone can turn a plain outdoor area into a personal paradise.
Her journey also highlights the value of investing in your living environment. Whether you rent or own, making your space feel like “you” can have a profound impact on your well-being. As Sheinelle put it, “I told Jenna this is all I wanted. I wanted a little nook where I could read books and relax.”
For viewers looking to replicate her success, Konrad’s tips are a great starting point. Start with a few key pieces, experiment with layers and textures, and don’t forget to leave room for the things you love. Whether it’s a stack of books, a favorite cocktail, or the company of close friends, your outdoor space should be a reflection of what makes you happy.
Source: MSN News