Living Large on Small Patios

Terra cotta pots filled with citrus trees, roses, lavender and decorative foliage turned this little patio into a veritable plantation. "If you want trees" says landscape designer Deborah Gliksman, "look for specimens that will stay small. There is a wide selection of patio trees – everything from Japanese Maples to Crape Myrtles. Just be sure to check the label for mature growing size before you buy." 

"It's important to keep your plants and furniture scaled down if your space is small," says Gliksman, "but that doesn't mean that everything has to be puny. Sometimes a well-placed piece of larger furniture can set the mood." The floral-upholstered chair in this little patio was found in an alley. When not in use, it's covered by a tarp to keep it dry. 

When space is as tight as it is on this 11-foot-wide terrace created by Outhouse Design, attaching benches to a wall is a great way to maximize space. An array of pillows adds color and comfort, and metal art on the back wall adds visual interest to the long, narrow space. 

A reclaimed door, installed over a standard issue portal, adds visual interest to this urban patio by Jeffery Erb Landscape Design. Salvage yards, architectural-antiques dealers and eBay are good sources for vintage pieces like these to add distinction to your own space.