You may think it’s impossible to decorate a small patio, but an outdoor makeover doesn’t have to be a challenge. Don’t let a small patio stop you from spending time outdoors. With the right furniture and decor choices, any patio can become your favourite space in the house.
Decorating a small patio is all about making choices on decor that is going to create the illusion of a bigger space and choosing furniture that will not overcrowd your outdoor area. Continue reading to discover our top small patio design ideas!
HANG A MIRROR TO CREATE THE ILLUSION OF SPACE
Hanging a mirror is one of the easiest ways to make your small patio look twice as big. With countless different shapes, sizes and styles, you can create a focal point with little effort.
Using mirrors to create an added sense of space is a great option for decorating your small patio. Creating a focal point can distract from the size of your patio, and a mirror isn’t going to take up much room in your outdoor entertaining area.
USE MULTIFUNCTIONAL FURNITURE
A great space saver is using multifunctional furniture and furniture that can double as storage. In a small outdoor area, there is no room for clutter, so opting for something like a storage bench that can also be used as seating or a coffee table is a great option. Additionally, you can also use foldable furniture such as foldable chairs and tables as a way to save space.
UTILISE VERTICAL SPACE
Maximising vertical space can make up for what your patio may lack in floor space. You can add shelves as storage space or a place to put statement decor pieces. You can also add hanging furniture such as a hanging chair or a hammock in the corner.
A great way to add greenery to your small patio space is to add patio plants such as creeping vines or vertically growing trees or shrubs. Not only does this add vibrancy and colour to your patio, but can also be used to create a privacy screen.
ADD OUTDOOR CUSHIONS TO YOUR FURNITURE
A great way to add colour and pattern to your small outdoor space is to create a lounging area and use throw pillows as decor. Outdoor cushions allow you to customise the look and comfort of your patio. Not only this, but a mix of colours and patterns can make a space feel bigger. Accessories such as cushions can help make an outdoor living space feel more put together and welcoming. Just make sure your cushions are waterproof and fade-resistant!
INCORPORATE A LIGHTER COLOUR PALETTE
The most well-known trick for making a space look bigger is to use light colours. Why not use this same trick in your backyard patio area? Paint any dark-coloured walls in a lighter shade and buy light-coloured patio furniture.
CHOOSE PROPORTIONATE FURNITURE
Scale is an important part of any design, but especially for small spaces. If your outdoor furniture is too big for the area, it can quickly make the space feel crowded and small. Choose lightweight, easy-to-move furniture that you can rearrange to make more space if you need to. Avoid large, clunky lounge chairs.
ADD A RUG TO YOUR BACKYARD PATIO
Area rugs are a great way to bring more colour to your small patio without taking up any extra space. Consider placing an outdoor rug beneath an outdoor seating or dining area to help define the space. Rugs also create a more cozy space as you don’t have to walk on the cold ground, making the space more inviting and more like an outdoor living room.
USE A SMALL OR PORTABLE BARBECUE
A small patio doesn’t mean you have to miss out on having a barbecue! There are plenty of options for small barbecues that can easily fit in your space. Just avoid choosing big outdoor kitchen-style barbecues and instead go for a compact, portable barbecue that you can roll away when not in use.
ADD AN AIR OF AMBIANCE WITH PATIO LIGHTING
Lighting can make a big difference to any space. Avoid harsh patio lighting and hang some string lights instead to create a more cozy and welcoming outdoor area. When it comes to lighting, another thing to consider is the warmth of the lighting. Yellow lighting tends to create a more inviting space than blueish lighting. If you don't have a ceiling to hang the lights from, you can also hang them around poles or on walls in your backyard patio.
CONSIDER A TABLETOP FIREPIT FOR PATIO HEATING
Make your small patio a space you can enjoy all year round with the addition of a tabletop fire pit or fire bowl. A fire pit can create a focal point for your small patio and distract from its size. Choosing a tabletop fire pit rather than a big outdoor fireplace is a great way to save space and you can store it away during the warmer months.
WANT TO RENOVATE YOUR PERTH BACKYARD AND ADD A PATIO?
Is your patio showing its age? Do you need an upgrade or want to create a custom outdoor space to suit your needs? The experienced team at Great Aussie Patios can help! With a wide range of patio roofing and patio designs available, there is sure to be a patio that will complete your dream outdoor space. Don't hesitate to contact us to find out more about how we can help create the perfect small patio space!