Outdoor Furniture for Small Spaces

By Guest Post Writer Sara Marie Hall

As warmer weather arrives, many of us have started dreaming about the perfect outdoor space to enjoy the summer months. However, for those of us with small outdoor spaces, sometimes the dream doesn’t match the reality. Luckily, the right furniture and accessories can help. Whether you have a city apartment with a balcony or a smaller-than-average patio, here are some tips to keep in mind to make the most of a small outdoor space.

1. Think about your must-haves and how they can work in your space.

When you have space limitations, you have to think about purpose and priorities. You may decide to devote the space for lounging or use it as an outdoor dining area. Once you’ve narrowed down how you’d like to use it, you can hone in on what pieces you’ll need.

For some people, a sofa is the ultimate must-have piece for an outdoor area. Don’t have room for a full sofa, but still want the option of sprawling out? A chaise lounge has a smaller footprint than a sofa but offers lots of room to relax. You could also opt for a set of lounge chairs or oversized poufs for comfortable seating that are easier to rearrange than a full sofa. With any of these pieces, look for plush cushions that bring the cozy feeling of your living room outdoors.

If you’d rather use your outdoor space for alfresco dining, think about what size table your space will allow. If a full-sized dining set won’t fit in your outdoor area, consider a smaller square table for four, or add a set of small bistro tables that you can easily rearrange as needed.

2. Consider space-saving furniture.

Once you’ve identified which core pieces are important, you can then supplement with space-saving furniture. A folding tray table will make do for a full-sized coffee table. If you already have a lounge chair or sofa in your outdoor space, try some folding chairs for extra seating.

Struggling to decide which other space-saving furniture pieces you should have? Think beyond day-to-day use of the space and consider which pieces you’ll need on hand for entertaining. Choose easy-to-store extra chairs and side tables for special occasions.

3. Find complementary decor.

Think that a small patio or backyard limits your decorating options? Think again! Even the smallest outdoor spaces can benefit from stylish decor. Start by choosing a color scheme you love. Choose classic colors such as black and white, or opt for beautiful, bold colors, such as yellow or blue, to make your area pop.

From there, decorate with rugs and other textiles. An indoor/outdoor rug ties together the look of an outdoor space, making it feel larger and more cohesive. Layer on other weather-resistant textiles, such as knit blankets and throw pillows. Outdoor lighting, such as string lights and lanterns, also lend a warm and cozy feel to the space.

4. Add greenery to the space.

Don’t forget the greenery! Tall plants add height to outdoor areas without taking up a lot of square footage, making the space feel bigger. To add even more fresh touches to your patio or backyard, mix and match planters of different sizes. Have a balcony? Take advantage of every square inch by planting flowers and herbs in hanging rail baskets. With the right finishing touches, you can make your space feel perfect for you, no matter the size.

Sara Marie Hall creates original online content about outdoor furniture for Crate and Barrel, where you can find options for spaces of any size. Sara lives in New York City with her Shih Tzu, Kanye.