Do you have a small balcony or patio? You might think that your dreams of a lush, relaxing outdoor oasis are impossible. Think again! A small footprint doesn’t mean a small potential. With a few smart tricks, you can make even the smallest space your favorite place to have coffee in the morning or relax in the evening.
These are three easy, useful ways to get the most out of your small patio or garden.
1. Go up, not out: Think Up
If you can’t build out, build up! This is the most important rule for gardening in small spaces. Get your plants off the ground because floor space is valuable.
Hanging baskets are a classic for a reason. Put trailing flowers like petunias or lush ferns in them to give them some color and life without taking up any floor space.
Wall Planters and Shelves: Put up some simple shelves or fabric wall pockets to make a living wall. This is great for growing herbs. You can easily get fresh basil and mint.
Trellises: A simple trellis leaning against a wall can hold up climbing plants like jasmine or clematis. This makes a beautiful green wall that also gives you some privacy.
2. Buy furniture that can do more than one thing.
Every piece needs to work hard to stay in a small space. Find furniture that can do more than just sit.
This is probably the best thing you can buy for a small patio: storage benches. You can sit on it and hide your gardening tools, cushions, or watering can inside.
Foldable Pieces: A small bistro set with a table and two chairs that can be easily folded up and put away is great. Use it when you need it, and put it away when you need more room for guests.
Nesting tables are great because they give you extra surface area without the bulk of a big coffee table.
3. Use smart decor to fool the eye
A few simple design tricks can make your patio feel bigger and more welcoming. It’s all about the mood.
String Lights: Hanging string lights like those found in bistros from the ceiling works wonders. It makes things look taller and gives the room a magical, cozy feel at night.
Use a rug: An outdoor rug gives the space definition and makes it feel like a real part of your home, like a “outdoor room.” Choose lighter colors or simple patterns to make the space feel more open and airy.
Use light colors: Dark colors can make a room feel small. Use light-colored cushions, pots, and furniture to reflect more light and make the space feel bigger.
Your little patio has a lot of potential. Try one of these ideas and see how it changes your space.
What are your best tips for a small patio? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below!
