How to Make Mid-Century Outdoor Planters with Cabana Style

Palm Springs style is all about effortless glam, retro charm, and bold design—especially when it comes to outdoor living. One of the easiest ways to channel that mid-century modern cabana vibe? Stylish planters with sculptural silhouettes, playful textures, and vibrant greenery.

The good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune to achieve that chic look. With a few simple materials and creative touches, you can DIY your own mid-century outdoor planters that feel straight out of a vintage resort catalog.

Here are 3 easy DIY planter ideas to help you bring that Palm Springs magic to your patio, poolside, or balcony!

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Planter 1: DIY Pedestal Planter from Two Bowls

Inspired by: Iconic mid-century tulip and pedestal planters
Perfect for: Snake plants, succulents, or trailing vines

Supplies:

• 2 plastic or melamine bowls (one smaller than the other)
• Strong outdoor adhesive (like E6000 or Gorilla Glue)
• Spray paint (matte black, white, or poppy orange)
• Sandpaper (optional, for prep)
• Plant + potting soil

Instructions:

1. Choose your bowls: Flip one bowl upside down (this is your base), and place the other on top (right-side-up). Make sure they create a sturdy “pedestal” shape.
2. Sand the surface: Lightly sand the contact points to help the glue bond better.
3. Glue the pieces together: Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the base and center the top bowl over it. Let dry 24 hours.
4. Spray paint: Once dry, coat the entire planter in your color of choice. Use two light coats for even coverage.
5. Add your plant: Fill the top with potting soil and your favorite greenery!

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Planter 2: Concrete Block Planter with Wood Legs

Inspired by: Minimalist mid-century geometry and raw textures
Perfect for: Cacti, succulents, or sculptural tropicals

Supplies:

• 1 hollow concrete block (check garden or hardware stores)
• 4 wooden furniture legs (mid-century style, angled if possible)
• Strong construction adhesive or screws (depending on leg type)
• Spray paint or concrete sealant (optional)
• Soil + drought-tolerant plants

Instructions:

1. Prep the block: Clean any dust and seal the surface if desired.
2. Attach legs: Either screw in the furniture legs (if they have mounting hardware) or use heavy-duty adhesive to secure them to the bottom corners of the block.
3. Paint or leave raw: For a more Palm Springs vibe, paint the block a crisp white or sunny pastel.
4. Plant: Fill with gravel (for drainage), soil, and drought-friendly greenery like aloe, echeveria, or cactus.

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Planter 3: Upcycled Metal Bucket into Mod Colorblock Planter

Inspired by: Bold color and playful mid-century shapes
Perfect for: Colorful flowers, herbs, or tropical foliage

Supplies:

• 1 metal or galvanized bucket (thrift store find or dollar store)
• Painter’s tape
• Two complementary outdoor spray paint colors (e.g., coral + blush, mint + gold)
• Drill (for drainage holes)
• Soil + plants

Instructions:

1. Drill drainage holes: Flip the bucket over and drill 3–5 small holes in the bottom.
2. Tape off a colorblock pattern: Use painter’s tape to divide the planter diagonally or in large blocks.
3. Spray paint: Apply one color at a time, letting the first dry completely before painting the second section.
4. Remove tape carefully: Once dry, remove the tape and touch up any areas if needed.
5. Plant it up: Fill with soil and add a cheerful combo of greenery and blooms.

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Final Tips for a Palm Springs Cabana Feel

• Use bold, solid colors—coral, turquoise, white, mustard, or black.
• Group planters in clusters of varying heights to mimic a resort-style layout.
• Add gold or brass accents with trays, plant markers, or legs for a little retro glam.
• Use drought-tolerant plants like succulents, palms, and cacti for a true desert-chic look.

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Ready to bring some retro sunshine to your outdoor space? These DIY planters are budget-friendly, totally unique, and full of that carefree Palm Springs cabana charm.

Because nothing says “summer glam” like a perfectly styled planter on your poolside patio.