18 Tiny-But-Mighty Yards, Balconies + Patios With Design Ideas To Steal

From the start, Malcolm knew that he wanted an outdoor space for entertaining. That made seating a top priority. The stylish, black-topped wicker bench - reminiscent of the one that sits at the foot of his bed - is the perfect cozy seating option for the space. It also fits seamlessly into the color palette established by the raw wood privacy wall which he built himself. Malcolm opted for a neutral palette dominated by raw wood tones for the instant connection it made with the rest of the outdoor environment, which includes a shared garden with a small creek.

Photo: Malcolm Simmons

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Design Ideas for Small Balconies, Decks, Patios and Beyond

If you've been dreaming of lounging on a stunning rooftop or a relaxing on a luxurious porch swing but you're limited by your home or apartment's tiny outdoor space, you're in the right place. We're sharing the best ways to make the most of your small outdoor area — whether it's a compact yard, petite side porch or miniature balcony.

To start, take a cue from designer Malcolm Simmons' tiny outdoor space that's designed with entertaining in mind. He made seating a top priority, and installed a wood privacy wall that he built himself.

See the Rest of the Space

Photo: Kate Leichhardt, Architectural designer and partner in the build firm: Todd Shelburne, Builder: Twin Spires Remodeling. From: Bethany Adams Interiors

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A Petite Patio

In this Kentucky home's redesign, the architects incorporated charming ways to enjoy the outdoors. Here, a petite patio perfectly fits two bistro chairs and a cafe table — perfect for dining alfresco.

Photo: Julie Livingston Photography. From: Laura Boyd

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Streamlined and Chic

Less is more on this small balcony. A pair of white, papasan rope chairs fade into the background of the white siding, while the rattan side table blends with the light wood floor, helping the small outdoor space feel as open and spacious as possible.

Colorful Plantings and Woven Seating on Balcony

Photo: Elk Studios LLC. From: Amy Elbaum

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Bright Balcony

An artful array of plants create a peaceful spot to relax in the midst of the city. Functional yet stylish furnishings are perfect for lounging with a cocktail in hand.

Violet lounge chair on plant-filled deck/balcony

Photo: Fermob

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Potted Privacy

A street-facing balcony may offer extra square footage but not much extra privacy. Line your balcony with tall, leafy potted plants to shield your place from prying eyes.

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Artful Landscaping

A dark and tiny backyard was transformed with built-in plant beds, salvaged bluestone pavers and lots of natural charm. Reclaimed barn doors add a focal point to the space, while a custom greenscreen trellis fills the garden (and two floors of the home!).

Photo: Sarah Wilson/ Getty Images. From: Chip Gaines

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Open-Air Herb Garden

Joanna Gaines transformed this once awkward (and tiny) atrium into an open-air herb garden. Located right off the kitchen and dining area, the courtyard is a perfect place to entertain, and a fragrant herb garden makes prepping delicious meals easy.

Photo: Lexi Van Valkenburgh

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Peaceful Microgarden

Once bare, this tiny yard behind a rowhouse in Brooklyn, N.Y. now features a canopy of plants, such as crepe myrtles and camellias. Landscape designer Michael Van Valkenburgh planted trees that naturally cool the garden terrace and house and created a bird habitat.

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Photo: Ryann Ford

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Secluded Comfort

A cedar screen and plants offer privacy in the outdoor patio and garden. A sinuous lounge chair provides the perfect perch for reading and relaxing.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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City Garden

In this small urban outdoor patio, a salvaged wood wall and potting table satisfy the city gardener. Climbing vines and potted plants, including a terrarium, create a lush space, while a candelabra adds ambiance for outdoor dining.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Packed Deck

Cozy, transitional style is carried outdoors with this colorful sitting area. The deck rail is dressed up by several baskets of flowers, while a bright blue rug adds color and comfort beneath the upholstered sectional.

Small Patio With Modern Yellow Table and Chairs

From: D2 Interieurs

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Simply Bright

Modern yellow furniture fills this small patio area, coordinating with the electric yellow back door. The furniture and door energize and invigorate the exterior of the colonial-style home.

Photo: Insite Architectural Photography. From: Bill Bocken

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Lush Balcony

An easy way to make the transition from indoors to outdoors feel seamless? Houseplants! Here, container gardens, potted trees and small planters lead occupants out onto the small balcony and give it a lush feel.

Photo: Santa Fe Properties, a member of Luxury Portfolio International. From: Luxury Portfolio International®

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Making Room

Tiny, narrow outdoor spaces can still be outfitted with furniture, decor and greenery. This charming Southwestern patio showcases deep, green ivy traveling up its pale pink privacy wall and a beautiful, red bistro set for meals day and night.

Rooftop dining with modern dining table and chairs in urban setting.

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Dining Alfresco

Take in the exciting city sights and sunsets from a terrace by adding a dining table and chairs. This setup is also ideal for entertaining. Who doesn't like dinner with a view?

Colorful Outdoor Luxembourg Chairs and DIY Canopy

Photo: Courtesy of Fermob

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Makeshift Shade

The fix for a tiny outdoor space that lacks architectural interest is simple. Add a makeshift canopy, awning or "tent" by attaching a colorful blanket to high wooden stakes. Not only is it festive, but it also functions as a source of shade. When you tire of it, it's easy to take down, or swap out the blanket.

Blue Metal Furnishings and Plants in Stucco Outdoor Space

Photo: Larry Hanna/AP images. From: Property Brothers At Home

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Table for Two

No matter how small your outdoor space, you can find a way to squeeze in a bistro table for alfresco dining. Drew and Jonathan Scott's home includes a quaint courtyard with this small, blue bistro set.

White, Weather-Resistant Outdoor Furniture and Woman on Urban Rooftop

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Rooftop Office

Investing in weather-resistant outdoor furniture, like benches and coffee tables, opens up new possibilities. Don't have enough space for a home office indoors? Take your work to the roof deck on the next sunny day.