Sun's out, buns out! Everyone deserves to feel the warmth of the sun on their skin. A dose of vitamin D is just what the doctor ordered. Don't let your limited outdoor space be an issue.
With a sprinkle of imagination and a dash of inspiration, you can transform your tiny patio area into a welcoming oasis.
So, bring up your Pinterest board and scroll through TikTok, we've got work to do. But first, follow these simple hacks to give your neighbor patio envy.
#1 Laying the Foundation
Paver patios are finding favor with renters and homeowners. Easy to install and budget-friendly, paving your patio area lays the foundation for your outdoor decor theme. From concrete to brick to flagstone, the possibilities are endless.
A popular design is the checkerboard pattern with grass planted between the pavers. The technique works best on flat, level ground. To make mowing easier, sink the pavers into the ground.
#2 Bring in the Experts
No need to DIY. If budget allows, consult patio contractors that have come highly recommended.
It can be intimidating to tackle any outdoor project. A contractor specializing in patio construction will suggest ways to maximize your space.
If they're an all-rounder, they can be there from start to finish. For example, you'll need someone to excavate the site and remove any rubble. What about a built-in firepit or pizza oven?
Depending on how much you're prepared to pay, hire a team that can do everything for you instead of employing contractors for specific tasks.
Stefano's Landscaping advises bringing in a team of patio contractors that specializes in professional and thoughtful backyard patio installations.
#3 Clever Lighting
The clever use of lighting can make a big difference in small spaces, says Rachel Morris of lighting company 4lite.
She tells Ideal Home that lighting the furthest parts of a small garden with spotlights and spike lights draws the eye into the distance, especially when they are facing trees and shrubbery.
To create an intimate space, Morris suggests lighting boundaries like flower beds, steps or decking.
#4 Create Atmosphere
Southern Living's Betsy Cribb Watson brims with ideas for tiny porches.
A small table in the middle of a screen porch is a beautiful focal point. If the porch happens to be off the kitchen, open it to guests to offset the flow from the inside to the outside.
Adopt a consistent color scheme. Watson says this keeps the area looking uncluttered and busy. Don't be afraid to mix and match textures. For a fun element, add a rolling bar cart.
All these suggestions will create a welcoming atmosphere while still maintaining the intimacy of your porch or patio.
#5 Outdoor Room
Outdoor rooms are the crème de la crème of architectural magazines and websites. A transcendence between interior and exterior spaces, they are taking on a life of their own.
A simple way of creating an outdoor room is with a screen porch, advises House Beautiful. Bring in simple decor elements like potted plants and hanging mirrors. When placed close to mirrors, the reflection of the plants creates a sense of depth.
If you want to throw all your money into an outdoor room, why not take a page out of Dezeen's design book?
The publication featured a home in western Slovakia lined with a colonnaded facade that opened into outdoor rooms. Using cement, glass and large blinds, the house is the epitome of seamless connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces.
#6 Scale Your Furniture
Interior designer Tobi Kraus is a fan of scaling furniture to small spaces. Chatting to CNN, she says your furniture must fit proportionately in the designated area.
When shopping for patio furniture, purchase compact items or apartment-friendly pieces. Choose space-saving designs that have dual functions with hidden storage compartments.
Also, go for a round table instead of a square or rectangle type. You'll be able to move around more freely and maximize the seating space.
Furniture fabric is just as important. You want the material to withstand the elements and last for a lifetime. Opt for weather and rain-resistant fabric.
For the perfect finishing touch, add lush hanging plants to tie into the natural environment. Be sure to water them regularly. Otherwise, you'll find yourself having to replace plants every season.
You might not be able to visualize it right now. Once the foundation is laid and you've gotten around to consulting an expert, your dream patio will be within reach.
Don't be afraid to think big for your tiny patio. You'll be blessed with endless summer days in your new outdoor living space.
