Living Large on Small Patios
Even when it's humble, a patio's where you'll want to spend as much time as possible in nice weather. We'll show you how top designers make even the smallest patios special.
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Potted Foliage
Scaled Furnishings
Maximize Space
Unique Look
Built-In Fire
You don't need a vast space for a fire feature. Architect Kimberly Goforth, AIA, simply had a hole cut in the concrete slab flooring of this small patio to create a wood-burning fire pit – the perfect place to warm up or roast marshmallows on a chilly evening.
You Might Also Like: 10 Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits
Burst of Color
Modern Space
Double Impact
Alone at Last
Funky and Fresh
Think Vertical
Tiered Design
A tiered design can add dimension to a petite patio, as well as defining areas for seating, dining and other uses. Here, cement steps wind their way through a garden filled with topiary trees, ornamental grasses, shrubs and flowering plants.
Tranquil Elements
Romantic Details
Space-Saving Built-Ins
Multipurpose Patio
Minimalist Approach
Space is at a premium for urban gardens, so landscape architect Alexander Gunn kept the look of this New York City terrace simple by balancing ipe wood decking with artificial grass for a clean, minimalist look. Planters with evergreens create a natural wall of privacy.