How to maximise on space in a small patio garden
These small patio ideas will elevate your space
Editor's note: This post was originally published in June 2024 and has been updated to ensure that all information is fresh, up to date, and accurate.
Small garden patios can often feel uninviting and overlooked, which makes them tricky to style. And with summer just around the corner, you might be in search of some easy gardening ideas that feel expensive (minus the cost).
You don't need a huge garden to enjoy the outdoors. In fact, small patios are the perfect thing if you're after an outdoor space that's easy to maintain and low-effort. In this article, I'm sharing my top tips on how to maximise your space, clever styling inspiration, and what mistakes to avoid when curating your garden area.
What are the best small patio ideas?
The best small patio ideas give the illusion of more space than you have. Think vertical gardening ideas like climbing plants and hanging baskets; clever decor like mirrors and shelves; and a light colour scheme for a bright and airy feel.
1. Climbing plants
Climbing plants are some of the best options for styling a small patio garden. I'm talking climbing roses, jasmine, and clematis. These all produce stunning flowers bursting with colour, and are likely the best climbing plants for visual impact.
Choose flowers that create a lot of vertical interest and make the space feel fuller, without it feeling cluttered. Often, people make the mistake of filling small spaces with things. Climbers will make the space feel lived-in, without feeling messy, and naturally draw the eye up.
2. Vertical gardening ideas
In small spaces, the key to decorating is to pay attention to vertical space, like fences and walls. Instead of filling your ground space with plant pots which might disrupt the flow, install wall planters, trellises and hanging baskets. Add some shelves and decorate with trailing plants and ornaments to prevent your space from feeling bare.
3. Lighting
Lighting can help set the mood, even in an outdoor setting. Hang warm outdoor fairy lights to make your garden feel magical during the darker evenings, or opt for garden spotlights to highlight your favourite features. This will make your patio feel instantly inviting, especially during the darker evenings.
4. Large plant pots
Instead of buying lots of little plant pots, which can create unnecessary clutter, choose a few large ones to give the illusion of space. Doing this plays with scale and will help your small garden appear clean and thoughtfully curated. You'll also end up with fewer plants to look after, meaning it's lower maintenance too.
5. Mirrors
Hang outdoor mirrors. Mirrors can create a sense of depth in any space, so is a quick and simple way to make your small garden feel more spacious. You can find some stunning garden mirrors on the market and make them somewhat of a feature too.
6. Light colour scheme
Opt for a light colour scheme to prevent your patio from feeling dark and small. People often forget that their fences act as a design feature, and painting them a lighter shade can completely transform the space. Choose plant pots that are neutrals or pastels to complement your colour scheme.
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7. Create zones
Creating zones is a great way to make better use of your small outdoor space and give the illusion of having more space. You can use the likes of potted plants and outdoor rugs to help divide your patio.
To make these zones more defined, try styling them differently too. Use soft furnishings, lighter finishes, outdoor lighting for a cosy area, and practical, rustic, and easy-to-clean furniture for more functional spaces.
8. Trellises
Make plain fences look more interesting with a trellis or two. Whether you opt for climbing flowers or shrubs, it’s a great way to add a bit of character and greenery to your space while helping your patio feel more secure, cosy, and private.
What is the best outdoor furniture for a small patio?
The best outdoor furniture for a small patio is compact, multi-functional, and has built-in storage. Avoid furniture sets that are big and bulky - it will likely disrupt the flow of your space and make it feel overly cramped.
Storage can often be an issue for small patios. Aim for items that can be stored away neatly during the colder months. Opt for footstools with hidden storage to get more for your money.
Best outdoor furniture material
The best outdoor furniture materials are aluminium and wrought iron. Both options are durable and strong, meaning they'll stand the test of time, so you won't need to repurchase. A wrought iron bistro set is ideal for small patio gardens because they are compact and easy to store away.
Material | Style | Durability | Affordability | Weather-proof |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Aluminium | Sleek & industrial | Durable and resistant to corrosion. | Affordable & luxury options available. | Yes - aluminium is resistant to rust and rot and can be left outdoors in most weather conditions. |
Wood | Natural & rustic | Lightweight. | Affordable & luxury options available. | Requires regular maintenance and a protective finish to prevent rot. |
Steel | Bold & modern | Resistant to corrosion and oxidation. | An affordable alternative to aluminium. | Yes - like aluminium, steel can be left outdoors in most weather conditions. |
Wrought iron | Traditional & intricate | Durable and strong. | Higher-quality sets can be expensive. | Requires regular maintenance to prevent rust. |
Wicker | Bohemian & modern | Durable and lightweight. | Affordable and luxury options available. | Requires regular care and maintenance. |
Rattan | Natural & sophisticated | Durable, lightweight, and UV resistant | Can be more expensive than wood but can work out as more cost-effective long-term. | Requires regular care and maintenance during winter and will need covering during wet periods. |
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Common small patio mistakes to avoid
- Too many small pots: An abundance of small pots is an easy way to make your space feel cluttered. Floor space is a must, and the more you have visible, the more spacious your patio will feel.
- Oversized furniture: Furniture that is too large will swallow up your space, making it appear cramped and tight.
- Ignoring vertical space: Leaving vertical space empty can make your patio lack interest. You may be tempted to buy more decor that takes up what little space you have.
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