The outdoor areas of your home serve a variety of functions, from providing outdoor living spaces for relaxation and socializing to serving as the canvas for a container garden. Patios, in particular, are highly sought after. Even if your patio is small, it can still be beautiful and functional. Despite its size, there are numerous ways to revitalize a small patio with the use of subtle and striking decor elements. From minor design improvements to versatile outdoor furniture solutions, making your compact patio more appealing doesn’t require much effort. Below, interior designers share their top tips for maximizing these vital spaces.
Expert Profile:
Liz MacPhail, interior designer and founder of Liz MacPhail Interiors
Kerrie Kelly, creative director of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab
Illuminate with String Lights
Proper lighting can transform your small patio into a day and night retreat. “String lights are a versatile lighting option that can be creatively hung in various ways,” suggests Kerrie Kelly. For balconies used as patio spaces, Kelly recommends attaching the lights to the railing.
Create a Bar Area
For those who enjoy entertaining, carve out a space on your patio for a bar setup. This area can house essentials like an ice bucket, beverages, glassware, and even a portable grill, according to Kelly. If space is limited for a bar cart or console, a tray can serve as a versatile serving solution; place it on a table during gatherings.
Set Up a Café Table
Position a small table between a loveseat or chairs to establish a casual dining spot for one or two people. MacPhail suggests using the table as a side surface for coffee in the morning or wine in the evening. Add a couple of plants to the table when not in use to enhance the greenery and cozy atmosphere of the patio.
Paint Your Floors
Unify your patio by painting, whitewashing, or staining the floors with an accent color or pattern. MacPhail advises applying the appropriate prep and paint products to individualize the patio’s look, whether it’s concrete, wood, or tile.
Adorn with Cut Flowers
Introduce color to your small patio by decorating tables and stools with fresh flowers. Kelly recommends displaying cut flowers in a vase as a simple yet impactful detail that elevates the space’s ambiance.
Place an Outdoor Rug
Define your patio space and add coziness by incorporating an outdoor rug. “An outdoor area rug can help delineate areas within your footprint, creating the illusion of more space,” says Kelly.
Title: 10 Stylish and Durable Indoor/Outdoor Rugs for Any Space
Arranging Outdoor Seating
When optimizing your outdoor patio space, consider using outdoor dining head chairs for comfortable lounge-type seating that doesn’t take up too much room. Adding a small stool can serve as both a surface for your items and a convenient extra seat.
Mixing Colors and Patterns
Bright colors and varied patterns can visually expand a small patio. Opt for color-coordinated designs in subtle and bold hues to enhance your decor.
Utilizing Potted Plants
Potted plants offer versatility with a mix of colors, sizes, and styles. Embrace variety to give your space a collected and eclectic feel, or opt for a uniform look by using the same plant in identical pots.
Enhancing with Fire Features
Fire bowls can add warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space, perfect for enjoying cooler evenings. Consider incorporating a storage box with cushions as additional seating on your patio.
Lighting Up Your Patio
Create a cozy atmosphere with lights and candles for soft, ambient lighting. Line walkways with lights and scatter candles on tables or near plants. Elevate the look by placing candles in lanterns.
Building Seating Solutions
Save space by incorporating a built-in bench for flexible seating options. Pair the bench with freestanding chairs for a versatile dining or lounging area. Adding tall shrubs or trees can provide shade and privacy to your patio.
Adding Decorative Elements
Pillows are an easy way to bring a cozy touch to your outdoor space. Consider adding throw pillows to your furniture for added comfort. A game table can also be a fun addition for entertainment.
Creating a Plant Wall
Maximize greenery in your patio by setting up a living plant wall with succulents. This clever solution adds a touch of nature without taking up valuable space.
Kerry suggests incorporating hanging baskets and potted plants into your outdoor space to create a beautiful and easy-to-maintain atmosphere. She mentions that this approach is the perfect low-maintenance solution for those looking to enhance their patio without much effort. Furthermore, if you have a trellis or pergola in your patio area, Kerry advises decorating it with floral vines to introduce vibrant colors and save space. For more inspiration on maximizing small spaces, check out the article “Vertical Gardens Are the Ideal Small-Space Solution—Here Are 12 Ideas to Get Started” by Martha Stewart.
