When warmer weather arrives, we naturally want to spend more time outdoors. Whether it’s to entertain or get our own dose of nature, we want a comfortable place to relax outside. If you happen to have a small deck or a modest patio, don’t worry. There are several strategies you can use to make a more functional and enjoyable outdoor living area.
Make Functional Furniture Choices
If tables and chairs eat up the bulk of your outdoor deck or patio, find foldable versions. Metal bistro tables and chairs can be hung on a wall or set against the house. Plastic chair sets are stackable and easy to move. Bring them out when you want to lounge or entertain, then easily pack them away. A storage bench can double as seating.
Grow a Vertical Garden
Make use of vertical space to liven up the patio. Attach small pots to fencing with hooks, use plants to grow up a fence or wall, or buy a ladder-style stand to house multiple plants vertically without taking up much floor space. The more accents of green, the better.
Brighten Up with Color
Brightly colored pots, throw pillows and textured rugs liven up a small space and create a cozy, welcoming feel. If the materials aren’t weather-proof, be sure to bring them inside or store them in a covered area when not in use.
Hang a Mirror
People having been using mirrors forever to trick the eyes in small rooms. Hanging a mirror outdoors works just as well. The reflection makes the space feel bigger and adds a stylish, unexpected touch.
Light Up the Outside
Use a string of lights to create a café style feel at night. Hang along walls, deck railings, or use solar powered lights that border the patio.
Add Artificial Grass
If you have next to zero yard space and you want more green outside, consider artificial grass for a patio or tiny lawn. It has gained popularity and provides green all year. It can be laid on top of soil, concrete, wood, or stone and doesn’t require any of the usual trimming and mowing maintenance of real grass.
Landscape with a Stone Sitting Wall
If you have a small paved area in your backyard, consider lining or accenting it with a stone sitting wall. It’s a landscape feature that adds elegance as well as more space to sit during barbecues and evening gatherings.