Small outdoor living spaces: How to decorate a tiny deck or patio

by Lena and Rich Benenati 06/23/2024

Homeowners with small outdoor living spaces are often stumped when it comes to design. With so little square footage, how do you make the most of your outdoor space?

The lack of space might seem restrictive at first, but there are plenty of ways to add style and comfort to even the tiniest deck or patio. Here are some expert design ideas to inspire you and transform your outdoor living space:

Multi-use furniture

When you’re short on space, multi-use patio furniture can be a lifesaver. Choose outdoor furniture with storage space, like benches or coffee tables with empty compartments. Furnishings that can expand or shrink depending on need, such as bar carts or side tables with fold-out leaves, will also conserve precious space.

Privacy solutions

If you live in an apartment or condominium, chances are your outdoor space is very close to your neighbors’. One way to make small outdoor spaces feel more comfortable is to add privacy without taking up square footage.

Some ideas for privacy include hanging screens, curtains or trellises attached to preexisting walls. You can also create privacy with live greenery by adding a row of tall container plants.

Establish zones

Breaking up a tiny space to make it larger might seem counterintuitive, but you can increase the functionality of your deck, yard or patio by establishing different zones. Some examples of different zones might be outdoor dining, solo relaxation or gardening.

You can have a designated dining area with a table and chairs and add an outdoor area rug to make it a cohesive space. Add comfy lounge chairs and a small accent table with a separate stylish rug, and now you have two living spaces in one!

These are just a few tips for designing your small outdoor space to meet your personal needs. Whether you have a tiny backyard, patio, deck or terrace, make the best use of limited space by considering these ideas.

About the Author
Author

Lena and Rich Benenati

Lena and I have been helping our clients buy and sell real estate since 2002, marking over 26 years of combined market experience! We will earn your trust by utilizing proven marketing strategies, certified professional negotiating skills, and targeted technology. Add to this our local market insight and consistent follow up, and it adds up to a great experience for you! A family owned and operated business, we strive to be your trusted adviser, helping you navigate the home buying and selling processes. It is our mission to combine our extensive experience and superior customer service together with a positive attitude to ensure that you enjoy your buying or selling experience. Our customer service extends beyond the sale, providing you with useful information regularly and connecting you with the resources you need, when you need them. This is why an exceptionally high 80% of our business is referred to us by our past clients. We look forward to exceeding your expectations, in English or Spanish as you desire. Lena & Rich, a team you can trust, for everything real estate.