The right design strategies, such as using mirrors and multi-purpose furniture, can make a small patio seem more spacious. These creative strategies maximise usable space craft a patio that feels airy, open, and inviting.
Here are 10 of the best design tips and ideas to make the most of your small patio.
10 Clever Tips to Make the Most of a Small Patio
- Use Mirrors to Create the Illusion of a Larger Space
- Create a Cosy Corner Nook
- Add a Captivating Centerpiece
- Don’t Be Afraid to Go Bold
- Incorporate Folding Furniture
- Add Outdoor Curtains or Blinds
- Use Vertical Space to Your Advantage
- Anchor Small Spaces with an Outdoor Rug
- Opt for a Portable Garden
- Maximise Small Patio Spaces with Multi-Purpose Furniture
1. Use Mirrors to Create the Illusion of a Larger Space
Strategic mirror placement can reflect light and help create the illusion of a larger space.
Hanging one or two mirrors in a closed-off space can help amplify natural light and cultivate a more airy, open feeling area. Mirrors can also add an element of elegance and a modern feel to patios.
2. Create a Cosy Corner Nook
Corners are often wasted space, making them a great area to utilise if you have a small patio. Create a secluded nook to tuck yourself away from the hustle and bustle of the world.
Relax with a favourite book or a cup of coffee in a cosy corner without taking up too much space or blocking foot traffic.
You May Also Like: 7 Creative Multi-Purpose Patio Ideas – Aussie Patio Designs
3. Add a Captivating Centrepiece
A captivating focal point can centre the eye in a strategic way, camouflaging how small the space actually is.
Open up a compact patio with a centerpiece that serves as a visual anchor, such as:
- A small round firepit (bonus if you choose a firepit that can also serve as a coffee table when not in use)
- A bold piece of art
- A sculpture
- A water fountain or birdbath
- An ornamental tree
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Go Bold
Sticking to neutral colours can avoid making a space feel too busy, making neutrals a popular choice for small patios. Too many bold colours and bright patterns can overwhelm a space, especially a smaller patio.
However, that doesn’t mean you need to avoid bold colours or patterns altogether. Stick to warm neutrals as the backdrop and add a pop of colour with:
- An outdoor rug
- Throw pillows
- A cosy throw blanket
- Accessories
5. Incorporate Folding Furniture
If you have a small patio and don’t want furniture permanently displayed, opt for folding chairs.
Having an impromptu gathering or want to enjoy a nice morning with a cup of coffee? Easily grab a few lightweight folding chairs rather than dragging around heavy furniture.
6. Hang Outdoor Blinds or Curtains
If you want privacy but don’t want to close in your small patio, blinds or curtains are a great choice. Outdoor blinds offer the best of both worlds, allowing you to create privacy without permanently closing off your patio.
Block out prying eyes one hour, and open up the blinds the next to let in natural light and a breeze.
You May Also Like: 7 Easy Backyard Privacy Ideas for Perth Homes and Patios – Aussie Patio Designs
7. Use Vertical Space to Your Advantage
Not enough space horizontally? It’s time to go vertical!
Adding greenery to walls can keep valuable floor space open and create the illusion of more space. Incorporating plants, vines, and greenery to walls also softens hardscapes and creates a lush feel.
Wall-mounted planters are another great option for adding visual interest and making a small patio feel spacious.
Here’s a great use of vertical space and hanging plants to draw the eye upward: Flat Roof Design Patio with Lounging and Dining Area.
8. Anchor Small Spaces with an Outdoor Rug
Outdoor rugs can help anchor a space and help make it feel larger than it is. To maximise its impact, choose a rug that stretches at least a few inches underneath all furniture legs.
Outdoor rugs are also ideal for softening a patio that may feel hard and unwelcoming otherwise. A soft outdoor rug also helps bring the indoors out, one of the patio trends we see most.
Rugs can also help create defined zones, as the homeowners did here. The use of a boldly patterned rug underneath the patio furniture creates a perfect spot for lounging and socialising: Gable Patio with Dining and Entertainment Areas.
9. Opt for a Portable Garden
For the ultimate versatility, use pots and small planters to create a portable garden. With limited space, pots allow for easy rearranging when you need to create more seating areas for gatherings.
Enjoy your flowers while still being able to slide them aside when you need more space in a pinch. Stick to medium to large pots rather than a bunch of little pots to prevent the area from appearing cluttered.
These homeowners do a lovely job incorporating a variety of plants and greenery that can be shifted around as needed: Alfresco area with potted plants.
10. Maximise Small Patio Spaces with Multi-Purpose Furniture and Function
Multi-purpose furniture is the ultimate way to maximise small patio spaces. Conceal clutter while adding function and preserving valuable floor space with dual-purpose furniture pieces, such as:
- An outdoor bench with built-in hidden storage
- A rolling bar cart stocked with snacks, drinks, and ice that can be a serving station, side table, or outdoor kitchen
- An ottoman with built-in storage and a tray that can serve as a side table or footstool
- Modular sectionals that can be easily reconfigured as needed to create a different layout depending on your needs
- Convertible coffee tables that can be extended to different heights
- Daybeds or chaises that can be converted to a sofa or a lounging area
Custom Perth Patios from Big to Small
Small patios can feel expansive, inviting, and functional with clever design techniques and the right decor.
Need help planning and designing your dream patio? Whatever space you have to work with, our experienced team can help you make the most of it. We’ve spent the last 26 years helping Perth homeowners turn their backyards into their own personal retreats. Contact us for your free custom patio quote.
