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<\/p>\nNo matter how small your patio is, there is no reason to miss out. A stylish patio with comfortable furniture is still within your reach. Still, it is true that you will need to use every inch in a creative way. Here\u2019s how to maximize space on a small patio.<\/p>\n
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If your patio is long but narrow, try creating two or three small furniture groupings to break up the length. For example, you might have a tiny dining area with a bistro table, a conversation nook with two small chairs, and a reading area with a chaise lounge.<\/p>\n
Whether built in or standalone, benches create the most seating in the smallest amount of space. A bench with cushions against the wall or rail could serve as a loveseat, and also pull double duty as a dinette when you bring out a small folding table and a couple of chairs.<\/p>\n
Plants are an easy way to add color and texture to a small patio. Choose vertical plants in narrow planters or a climbing ivy along the wall. Three different varieties of varying heights can help you define areas and create the illusion of a larger space.<\/p>\n
A patio umbrella may overwhelm the space, but that doesn\u2019t mean you have to miss out on summer weather. Try a triangular sail shade or wooden veneer strips woven in a basket pattern and mounted to the wall or railing to keep the sun away without dominating the patio.<\/p>\n
If you have a tight corner or odd-shaped space on the patio, don\u2019t let it go to waste. Pile up some outdoor pillows that can double as floor seating or install a cool chimenea. Take exact measurements, and shop for something visually interesting that just fits.<\/p>\n
Instead of trying to make your small patio do everything at once, choose lightweight, flexible, mix and match furniture that folds or stacks. For a casual dinner party, bring out the folding tables and chairs. For a relaxed evening with the kids, put down throw pillows or blankets and a low floor table. Converting your patio to fit the theme of the night allows you to make the most of the space.<\/p>\n
A blazing fire adds a hint of mystery to any outdoor gathering, but a full-size fire pit may not fit on your small patio. Choose a propane tabletop version instead for a bit of ambience that won\u2019t overwhelm the space.<\/p>\n
Take advantage of whatever height you have to make the space appear roomier. Balcony height furniture is taller and narrower than traditional patio furniture. Art, plants, or a shade structure mounted high on the wall also help to draw the eye up and away from the patio footprint. A small patio can be a bit of a challenge, but with some ingenuity, there is no reason it can\u2019t be just as stylish and lush as a larger deck. Think outside the box, take advantage of odd spaces, keep it flexible, and you might just turn your small patio into the outdoor space of your dreams.<\/p>\n