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

by Mike Flannagan 02/12/2023

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

Mike Flannagan

Mike Flannagan, Principal Broker @FlannaganAssociates. Mr. Flannagan began his real estate career in 1991, Mike’s educational and professional experiences have provided a strong foundation in his real estate career. Such a background has been exceptionally useful in understanding, managing, problem-solving, and ultimately closing complex transactions. These talents, however, do not preclude equal success in navigating more traditional transactions, where Mike’s naturally strong work-ethic and contagiously kind personality complete the full circle of his effectiveness as a true and pleasant partner in the purchase and sale of a full range of real estate assets. Mike is also a Master Real Estate Developer and has worked on various communities right here in Loudoun County. Additionally, he also build’s luxury custom homes through his entity Virginia One Development priced from $3-million and up. Mike has passed $1 Billion in total life time achievement in transactions.