Outdoor spaces are a great venue for hosting, or just for enjoying the serenity of your surroundings. It’s only too bad that not every home can have a sprawling deck and patio area. Whether you’re constricted by you budget or the space of your property, it’s not always feasible to expand your patio space. That leaves some homeowners with no other option but to make do with the space they’ve got.
That might seem limiting, but a bigger factor in the potential for your patio resides in how you make use of this space. Even with a small patio, you can design and incorporate various features and elements to open up the space and bolster its efficiency. Read on for some tips to help you embrace your small patio and create a space you’ll love.
Seating considerations
Too much seating on a small patio space can be overwhelming. You don’t want to clutter up the space in an uncomfortable way — this will actually make the occupied seats on your patio less comfortable. Your best bet is to limit yourself to a single patio set with some basic features. Consider a small bench, two chairs and a small patio table, which provides seating for four and a space to set your drinks.
Depending on your space and personal preferences, you could also set up two long benches opposite of one another. The specific layout is up to you, but keep in mind that adding too much seating will have he opposite effect of what you’re trying to accomplish.
Outdoor lighting
A little added lighting in your patio area can do wonders for the appearance of this space. Christmas lights or other beaded lights are very popular and can be strung across the overhead space to add extra light while also setting the mood at night. Another lighting option is the addition of small floodlights, which will keep your patio well-lit and will be elevated out of the way of your space.
Shading features
One smart way to “extend” your patio space is to add a gazebo or pergola next to it. This can be set up off the patio but will provide a shaded space to drift into when the sun is out, or just because you want a change of scenery. The seating built into this space will also increase the maximum capacity for when you’re hosting events outside of your home.
Decorations
Some outdoor gear is essential, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t taking away from the appeal of your home and patio area. Garden hoses, for example, are better left covered up by greenery like a bush, but you could also enclose a hose in a stone cast hose pot. Add other weather-resistant decor to the outside of the house or your yard to increase its visual appeal. Statues, lawn ornaments, wind chimes and other decor are all possibilities, depending on what style you are trying to achieve.
Other non-patio space
The value of space beyond your patio should not be underestimated. Cobblestone walking paths and even rectangular stone pads can serve as an extension of your patio and provide a nice textural contrast.
Don’t be discouraged by the appearance of limiting factors in your backyard. Many times this just creates the opportunity to get creative and invent a new space. If you’re resourceful you will surely find a variety of ways to create a patio space that is truly unique and accommodating.
Holly is an Indianapolis native who works with her father in the real estate industry flipping houses. When she isn’t scouting out her next house, you can find her blogging on behalf of Sears and other brands she loves.