How to Decorate a Small Patio

Small patios can be just as inviting as other patios.

Small patios don’t mean you need to give up comfort or style. While they can present a challenge for some home owners, small patios can be enjoyable places where you get away from it all, even in the heart of the city. Knowing what to shop for and how to arrange it will give your small porch a new sense of life without making you feel crowded.

Instructions

1. Remove any clutter from your patio. Too many items in a small space tend to make it look and feel crowded. Clear everything off the patio and begin decorating with a clean area so you can get a sense of the size of the space and what your patio can accommodate.

2. Choose furniture that fits the size of your patio. Avoid oversized pieces that take up too much room, and don’t buy anything you don’t actually need. Chairs and tables are the primary pieces of furniture you need on a patio. If your patio is very small, you may opt for a daybed or sofa instead of two chairs. Only buy other items, such as swings or hammocks, if you have room.

3. Use shrubs and plants to give the patio a sense of privacy. For a patio on the ground, plant shrubs outside the perimeter of the patio so you won't have to give up space. For apartment balconies, hang plants to feel more secluded.

4. Keep it comfortable and shaded. You will want shade on your patio, and you can get this from umbrellas, sun sails or awnings.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase the right kind of furniture. If your patio is exposed to the weather, be sure to buy furniture that will endure the weather. Wicker, redwood, iron, plastic and rattan are good choices for outdoor patio furniture. Don’t forget to choose fabrics that also resist weather.

• For roofed patios, hang window treatments to give a small patio an inviting, cozy look. This will also protect your patio from the sun as well as add the privacy you need. Choose bamboo shades for areas that receive a lot of sun, and go with softer fabrics in areas that don’t get a lot of sun.

• Use folding chairs for occasions when you entertain. They are out of the way until you need them and you can store them in small areas.

• Select a single theme to use on your patio. This will give it a sense of unity and help you keep it maintained.

References

• Sunset: Find Your Perfect Patio
• Better Homes and Gardens: smart Ways to Use Lansdcape