15 Ways to Transform a Small Patio Into a Relaxing Retreat
With the right furniture and accessories, even the smallest patio can become an inviting, private escape. Try these ideas to transform your underused patio into a secluded oasis for lounging and entertaining.

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Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
Photo By: PopFizz | Bryan Allen
How to Decorate a Small Patio
Don’t let a patio that’s small, noisy or lacking in privacy stop you from spending time outdoors. With our small patio decorating ideas, you can turn even the tiniest space into an inviting retreat for relaxing or entertaining. Start with furniture — rather than buying a bulky matching set, shop for individual pieces that’ll better fit your space and give it an eclectic, boho feel. Curtains and lush plants are perfect for adding privacy to a patio. Finally, bring in some budget-friendly outdoor lighting to make your space usable any time of day. Read on for more small patio ideas and easy outdoor DIY projects.
Hang Curtains
Hanging curtains is an inexpensive and easy way to create a temporary wall — perfect for renters and anyone else whose neighbors are a bit too close for comfort. Flowing, gauzy fabric softens this patio while adding privacy.
More Ideas: 40 Ways to Dress Up Your Apartment Deck or Patio
Make a Statement With Lighting
Good lighting will not only help you enjoy your patio after the sun goes down but will also draw your eye vertically — important in a small space. This rattan pendant light makes a statement and shines a glow on the conversation area. Make sure to use outdoor cords and light bulbs.
More Ideas: 25 Outdoor Lighting Ideas That Won't Break the Bank
Provide Extra Seating
Include a Place to Lounge
The right seating can turn an underused patio into the perfect place to start or end your day. Whether it’s a daybed, hammock or lounge chair, add a comfy place to sit back and put up your feet.
More Ideas: 40 Gorgeous Outdoor Living Room Design Ideas
Choose Multifunctional Furniture
Bring in Greenery
An integral part of any outdoor room, greenery adds a vibrancy that you just can't get from anything else. Bring color and texture to your patio with a variety of potted plants.
More Ideas: Small Space Gardening Tips for Apartment Dwellers + Urbanites
Think Vertically
Going vertical is a smart way to display plants when you’re short on space. This DIY freestanding plant wall will also help create privacy as the plants grow.
Get the How-To: How to Build an Outdoor Plant and Privacy Wall
Design a Cozy Dining Nook
Love to dine alfresco but have a tight space? Bistro tables are the perfect solution. This folding table provides seating for two and can be easily tucked away.
More Ideas: 50 Stylish & Functional Outdoor Dining Rooms
Play Some Tunes
Add a Splash of Color
Neutral tones are relaxing, but a splash of color keeps things interesting. Add some pops of blues and greens to complement your natural surroundings without overpowering their beauty.
Boost Privacy
Creating a sense of enclosure in your outdoor room will make it feel like a secluded oasis. Use a privacy screen to block a bad view or nosey neighbors. Upcycle some old shutters and a few hinges into a folding partition.
More Ideas: 45 Creative Ways to Add Backyard Privacy
Wheel Out a Bar Cart
Consider Rattan
Make a Space-Saving Fire Pit
The glow of a fire pit draws people together and gives off warmth. Even the smallest outdoor room can benefit from a fire feature like this DIY tabletop version, which offers the beauty of a full-size fire pit while saving floor space.
Get the How-To: Warm Up Your Patio With a DIY Tabletop Fire Pit