Do you have a small patio? Look no further for a complete list of ideas on how to furnish it, to create a beautiful backyard space. From lounging to hosting dinner parties, all of these furniture ideas will have you covered.
As sunny days and warmer nights start making their approach, now is the perfect time to pay attention to the patio you’ve been neglecting. It may be outdoors, but it’s still a part of your home—as such, it should feel connected to the rest of your space, so make sure to give it some love this spring. Springtime is the perfect time to get rid of anything you’ve left out over the winter, and replace it with something that fits with the space, and how you want to use it. You can make it conducive for a quick daytime retreat, or a friendly dinner under the stars. Or you can just de-stress and sit around a cozy outdoor fireplace or fire pit while taking in the serene views nature has to offer. All in all, whether you want your patio to be a dining area, a fireside lounge, or a full-on family room, here are 25 furniture ideas to bring the comforts—and chicness—of the inside of your home right outside.
25 Furniture Ideas for Small Patios:
Chairs and Lounge Seating
1. Wicker and Plicker
Wicker is a lovely organic material that is also soft and comfortable for lounge chairs. Plicker, its plastic counterpart, does not have the organic feel that the original does, but it creates a similar effect visually and is equally soft and comfortable. There are so many great plicker options on the market right now, in all colours and shapes. They can be sat on directly, or be accompanied by a cozy cushion to truly elevate your lounging experience in your yard.
2. The Muskoka Chair
The muskoka chair, a classic wooden silhouette, is a great choice for any outdoor space. They can be arranged around a fire pit if you have enough space, or can be arranged in a semi circle for more limited patio space. For extra comfort, you can always add cushions to them! They are relatively light, and can also come in an even lighter plastic, which has the added bonus of being completely weather proof. The wood, undoubtedly, is more organic and maybe more beautiful. The plastic looks pretty similar and can have a lot of benefits, especially if you want to easily be able to rearrange chairs on your patio.
3. Hanging Swing Seat
This less traditional option for outdoor seating is a great space saver, as it takes up little to no floor space, and when it isn’t being used can easily be moved, or just naturally compresses to leave the patio space to other uses. There are some beautiful cloth or macrame options that are very low profile, but also very comfortable once in them. You can install just one, or an entire set.
4. Hammock
For those who love to lounge in the backyard, a hammock is a lovely option that can be moved at will. If you have trees in the backyard, it’s super easy to attach the hammock to them for the perfect support. If you have fence beams, or any other strong support on the patio, the hammock can also be hung from there. It’s important to make sure you’re hanging it from somewhere that can support the weight of the hammock and one or two people. There are so many beautiful hammock designs as well, so it can become a beautiful part of decorating your backyard space.
5. Plastic Stacking Chairs
While the sound of plastic stacking chairs may immediately make you think of those flimsy white ones often used for public events, there is so much more that can be done with this form. The market is filled with new takes on this classic form, sturdier and with much more attention to detail. This option allows you to easily stack them and out them away when not using, as well as easily bring out more seating for additional guests. They’re lightweight and sturdy, and you don’y have to fuss.
6. Wrought Iron
A wrought iron set is a classic and timeless backyard furniture, that will stand the test of time and the elements, while also taking up minimal space. Many new designs for patio furniture are larger in scale, and while this can be really beautiful and great for lounging, it can also take up a lot of space. If your patio is smaller, using a set of wrought iron chairs and table for dining is a great way to add beauty while minimizing the space the furniture takes up.
7. Wood
Wooden outdoor seating Outdoor sofas can help you create a cozy, comfortable set up, much like an indoor sofa does in your indoor living areas. Look for slim designs that you can tuck up against a wall or railing. You can also create custom built in wood seating, which can help keep the seating compact and adapted exactly to the space. You can also opt for a wooden bench with built in storage, Feeding two birds with one scone!
Coffee and Side Tables
1.Ceramic Side Table
Grab a tiled garden stool to transform your plant-covered patio into a true Jungalow. Funky, terracotta patterns ensure that each has personality to spare while feeling distinctly “earthy.” They also come in single colours, with beautiful embossed patterns. This is a great compact way to be able to put down drinks without taking up too much space on the patio, as well as adding to the decor.
2. Folding Wooden Table
A folding wooden table can be used as a coffee table or a side table on a patio, and be folded up and put away when not using it. This is the ultimate space saver, as it allows you to remove the piece entirely when it isn’t needed. Wood, as long as it is treated, is a very durable outdoor material. However, you will want to bring it inside when its snowing, or raining for longer periods of time. So, depending on your climate zone, you may be able to leave it out year round.
3. Plush Ottoman
A plush ottoman is a great multifunctional piece that can act as a seat, a foot-rest, a table and anything else you can think of! This kind of multi-functionality is great for a smaller outdoor patio space. It makes the space versatile for those times when you’re reading a book, and want to put your feet up, or when you have company over and need an extra seating spot.
4. Plant Stand
A plant stand is a great outdoor table that will allow you to make your patio feel like a lush garden. Elevating plants allows them to feel like they encompass the space. In addition, some plant stands can be large enough to also fit a cup or other objects you may want a spot to put down.
5. Metal Coffee Table
A metal coffee table is a wonderful durable option that can come in any size you need for your yard. It will last through any season, and is sturdy enough to put anything on. They are usually also pretty light, so if you want to rearrange or move things around when you have people over, that can easily be done!
Fireplaces
While it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the possibilities in the fire pit market, it also means you have more choices when it comes to finding the perfect fit for you and your family. No matter if you’re looking for a fire pit you can start with the push of a button or something a little less smoky, these are the best options for cozier evenings ahead.
1. Gas
Nothing says cozy like the warm glow of a fire, which is exactly why this beautiful arched patio has a gas fire pit. Plus, gas fire pits are surprisingly inexpensive, require no electricity and, because they are odorless, you don’t have to worry about smelling like a campfire every time you use them. If you have the capacity for natural gas installation in your outdoor space, you may want to consider a natural gas fire pit. They are similar to propane fire pits but they have a permanent connection to a natural gas line, thus eliminating the risk of running out of gas. Natural gas fire pits are the least portable of the fire pit family because they cannot be moved, however, they are the least expensive to operate and easiest to maintain.
2. Metal enclosed wood fire
These fire pits are almost like having a campfire right in your own backyard. They offer the same warmth and smoky ambiance and as a campfire while keeping the fire in a contained bowl and often with a screen cover for safety. The majority of wood burning fire pits are made of steel with the biggest differentiator between them being the size of the fire bowl. The larger the fire bowl the bigger the fire that can be made. The legs of the fire pit offer a level of safety by keeping it off the ground and away from the patio floor while also raising the heat closer to guests gathered around it. Wood burning fire pits come in a variety of styles and sizes. From marble to steel, they come in compact versions that will fit in perfectly to your small patio space. Selecting a fire pit with decorative cutouts is a great way to add to the décor of your backyard. Wood burning fire pits can be placed just about anywhere and can convert the atmosphere of any backyard into a perfect place for friends and family.
3. The table fire pit
This option can either be wood burning or with some form of natural gas, which makes it very flexible. It’s a great solution for a small space as you can combine a table and fireplace into one piece of furniture. The warmth of a fire pit will instantly cozy up any outdoor room. If space is an issue, make this tabletop fire pit. It’s easily customizable to fit any table, yet just as beautiful as a full-size fire pit. That being said. there are really great custom made options that combine the two effortlessly.
4. Built-in Brick fire-place
This is a great project that you can do yourself, using bricks or stones. This option will need extra safety checks if you are trying to build it on a patio, and you should probably consult a professional. If your patio opens up into a yard, or if your patio is in fact on the earth, then this is perfectly easy to do on your own. In the pit, you can either install a gas pit, or just throw some wood in and start a fire!
Lighting
It may not be noticeable during the day, but come nightfall, outdoor lighting is the pièce de résistance of your home’s exterior. From decorative purposes like highlighting architecture and casting a glow around landscape features to practical purposes like increasing safety and lighting up a stairway, there are plenty of ways to improve your outdoor spaces with lighting. Keep reading for 24 budget-friendly ways to glow up your great outdoors.
1. String Lighting
A string of twinkling lights will add a little something special to any outdoor space, but vintage-style lights with exposed filaments go the extra style mile. These Edison bulbs add a fun party attitude to decks and patios and make every night feel like an event. Vintage not your thing? There are plenty of string light styles to choose from. If you have a unique tree or plant on your property, find a way to showcase it using lights. This could mean directional lighting, an up light or, one of our favorites, string lighting. Simply wrap small string lights around the tree’s limbs to highlight every little detail and create a beautiful design moment in your outdoor space.
2. Sun-powered Garden Lights
Imagine this tiered stone walkway without the glow of these solar path lights. Not only would it be practically invisible at night, but it would also become a serious safety hazard. By lining a walkway with inexpensive solar path lights, you’ll make your property safer and infinitely more beautiful at the same time.
3. Tiki Lanterns
Old-school tiki torches are charming and undeniably functional. With a large flame and more citronella oil than your average candle, they can light up a space while keeping pests at bay. After a more sophisticated vibe? Look for torches with a painted or metallic finish, then arrange in groupings, staggering the heights for a relaxed look and ambient glow.
4. Portable Table Lanterns
Maybe your outdoor space has lighting, but it’s harsh and uninviting. We totally get it! To enhance the ambiance and make your space more welcoming, turn off the installed exterior lights and turn on something more creative. To recreate the magical look of the outdoor dining area, below, suspend glass lanterns at varying heights above your table. Or, place them on the table, so they can be moved at any point around the patio.
Sun Protection and Privacy
1. Plant Trees and Bushes!
Trees and bushes are the ultimate natural way to protect from the sun, and get some privacy in your patio space! If you want to naturally shield your patio or deck from the hot summer sun, plant a deciduous tree. They give plenty of shade in the summer and shed their leaves in the fall. Research the shade trees that are recommended for your region. Find out how tall and wide they’ll grow. You need to make sure they’ll fit in your available space. Consider both the canopy of leaves and the root system width when choosing a tree. Trees are valuable, living shade solutions, but they require planning. Avoid planting trees near your home’s foundation and utility lines. They’re excellent at seeking water. Trees will often find your underground water lines if they’re within reach of their roots.
2. Shade Sail
Sun shades, canopies and shade cloths are some of the best temporary deck shade ideas for outdoor areas. Shade sails, also known as sun shades or sun sails, don’t usually require much hardware. They’re easy to move or re-position as the angle of the sun changes. Firmly anchor them to a post or nearby tree to keep them from blowing away. Make sure to hang them so they stay taut and don’t flutter in the wind. A large shade sail on posts can help shade a swimming pool, sandbox or kids’ playset. The whole family can appreciate a day of safe outdoor fun without baking in the sun.
3. Outdoor Curtains
For more shade than a pergola alone can provide, consider outdoor curtains to add a little shade to your pergola. Kate, from Centsational Style, shares an easy DIY using canvas tarps for sturdy shades. Simple, affordable, and still attractive—just what everyone wants! Alternatively, you can string up a weatherproof curtain. This option can be ideal for a small patio space, as it can encompass the entire thing, creating a beautiful private environment to share time with family and friends in. In addition, they can easily be moved, opening up the space if you want to.
4. Pergola
A classic pergola keeps things shady without completely blocking the sun. The thin wood slates let the rays poke through so you feel the warmth of the sun without it beating down on you. (And if you want to hang a projection screen from it, you can! ). Pergolas are free-standing structures with lattice roofs. If you want filtered light or partial shade, they’re a great choice. They don’t completely block the sun. Pergolas allow air to circulate to keep you cooler. They also make an attractive, low-maintenance addition to yards and patios. Some pergolas have slats on one or more walls for additional sun protection. You can add covers to provide even more shade. Some covers drape over only the top of pergolas, while others cover the top and parts of two sides. Retractable and convertible pergola covers are also available. Look for covers made from fabrics that withstand rain, heat and sunlight.
5. Umbrells
Need portable deck shade ideas? Don’t overlook outdoor umbrellas. If the weighted stand is light, they’re easy to move around the yard. You can bring the shade with you as the sun arcs across the sky. Cantilever umbrellas are supported by an offset, freestanding pole. That means you can suspend them in the air wherever the sun is too intense. The pole isn’t in the center of the umbrella, which gives you extra room. You’ll have plenty of space for tables and chairs under the canopy. These umbrellas are also adjustable. You can tilt them for maximum shade coverage. Look for cantilever umbrellas in colors that match or complement your deck or patio furniture. Patio umbrellas are usually designed to fit through a hole in an outdoor table. They’re one of the classic patio covering ideas. Sometimes they have a weighted base for stability and support. Look for patio umbrellas in a variety of styles and colors. Solar-powered LED lights are available on some models, so you can keep enjoying the outdoors after the sun goes down.
I hope this list gave you plenty of ideas on how to decorate your small backyard patio space. There is so much you can do to make it look beautiful, feel spacious, and still provide a lot of comfort. Get ready for the coming spring and summer, and find the perfect pieces for your patio!
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