Big Ideas for Small Space Patios, Decks and Porches

No matter how petite, an outdoor space is an extension of your home and a place to retreat to under a sunny or starry sky. Find our favorite ideas for transforming your tiny outdoor spot.

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August 05, 2022

By: Chelsey Bowen

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Small Space, Smart Design

When designing pint-sized outdoor spaces, you have to get a little creative with layouts. Take your garden vertical, like these doubled-up hanging planters, and choose furniture that fits the scale of your space without overwhelming it.

Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out

No sprawling backyard for a massive pool? No problem. A stock tank pool is the perfect way to enjoy the water even when your outdoors is small. A container garden of succulents dots the stone surround of the concrete patio, and strung cafe lights allow for evening dips in the pool.

From: Bri Moysa

Designate Different Zones

What could have been a boring rectangle of a backyard is elevated with smart planning. Pavers define the front section, which has low seating for enjoying the outdoors. As you walk out into the yard, you have a lovely patch of grass and then raised planter beds that even encompass the yard’s tree.

From: A Small Green Space

Blend Your Indoors and Out

An outdoor space that flows seamlessly with its interior counterpart immediately increases your square footage. Retractable doors softened by flowing curtains open up to the balcony, which is covered in fabric shades to protect from the sun. Small potted trees planted with low-lying flowers give a one-with-nature feel that’s utterly inviting.

From: Bill Bocken

Made for Entertaining

A mix of concrete slabs and pea gravel maximizes the usage of this backyard, which has designated zones for cooking, dining and hanging out. Around the fire pit is a built-in banquette, and the outdoor kitchen area has a grill, fridge and plenty of counterspace for prepping and serving.

From: Molly Wood

Create an Escape in the Middle of the City

You won’t remember you’re in the bustling city of Chicago once you step foot onto this rooftop deck. Slatted fencing provides complete privacy, and the cornucopia of plants and flowers brings a lushness to the space. Underneath the L-shaped pergola sits a dining area, living space and outdoor kitchen with bonus seating for dining.

From: Chicago Roof Deck + Garden

Create a Container Garden

Container gardens are an easy way to soften the abundance of hard surfaces in urban spaces. When you visit your nursery, look for a variety of plants — flowers, ferns and grasses — as well as different pot sizes, colors and shapes to keep the garden from looking too one note.

From: Amy Elbaum

Look for Minimal Upkeep

If constantly maintaining an outdoor space isn’t your scene, opt for easy-care elements. This combo of wooden platforms, beds of rock, succulents and bamboo will give you a lush outdoors full of color and life without driving you crazy.

From: Studio H Landscape Architecture

Bring on the Comfort

Layers of textiles, pillows and throws instantly transforms an outdoor space into a cozy haven. This boho chic space is a true escape with a comfy seating area under a pergola for shade. Piles of pillows and nesting tables up the versatility of the space, so that seating can be rearranged when needed.

Look for Cushioned Outdoor Furniture

Go for ultra-cushy furniture when working with a covered patio. Since it’s more protected from the elements, you don’t have to worry as much about soaking wet cushions or fading from the sun. Although we do suggest getting furniture with washable slipcovers to keep your pieces looking as good as new.

From: Chicago Roof Deck + Garden

Line the Walk in Green

When surrounded by wood and brick and stone, bring on the greenery. Built-in flower beds temper the hard exterior of the urban dwelling. When planning your plants, consider how each will grow. These raised beds have some plants that spill over the edge of the container and some creeping vines that reach for the sun, creating a chic juxtaposition of height and texture.

From: Outside Space NYC

Work With Pavers

Large pavers keep a small yard low maintenance. Dwarf mondo grass planted between the pavers adds softness but doesn’t require a lot of care. This tucked-away space has spots for sitting, relaxing and enjoying the ambient sound of the water fountain.

From: Elle Cole Interiors

Design a Rooftop Getaway

It’s hard to beat the view of this New York City rooftop garden, yet the surrounding flower beds make a run for it. Tall grasses give you a sense of privacy, especially when lounging in the sun, and other planting drape over the side for gorgeous texture.

From: Outside Space NYC

Try Something New

Even if you don’t have space for a typical garden or flower bed, look to your vertical areas for an unexpected placement. An extensive vertical planter is hung on the privacy fence with a variety of grasses and plantings.

Provide Fun Seating

Sweeping beach grass surrounds this pea gravel patio. Inset pavers provide sturdy footing to the comfortable seating area: woven armchairs with ottomans and a cozy, oversized chair that’s perfect for lounging.

From: Artemis Landscape Architects

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