Would you like to create an inviting outdoor area that will enhance your home and increase its value? Are you concerned that the outdoor space you have to work with is too small?
While a small space may be a challenge, it is perfectly possible to create a beautiful outdoor area and it is easier than you think!
We can help you to transform your outdoor space in many ways, no matter the size. Read our guide to outdoor space design ideas for small areas, below.
4 Beautiful Outdoor Space Design Ideas For Small Areas
Outdoor Entertaining Area
A paved outdoor area that you can utilize for some al fresco dining when family and friends come over to visit will be of great benefit in the summertime.
Introduce some outdoor tables and chairs or benches, and a colorful sun umbrella. Or, build an outdoor fireplace and you can dine outside on summer evenings too.
Covered Patio
Extend your living space to your outdoor space with a covered patio. This will soon become your favorite spot for enjoying a drink in the evenings or curling in an armchair on lazy Sunday afternoons.
A garden-themed decor style will make you feel like you’re relaxing in the garden, even if you don’t have one.
Hanging baskets of plants and a comfortable wicker chair upholstered with a classic striped fabric will achieve this look with ease.
Urban Oasis
If you are lucky enough to have a garden, make the most of it. How about a paved walkway that leads to an outdoor seating area?
If you’re not blessed with an expanse of lawn and rows of flower beds, don’t let that stop you. A combination of paving stones with artificial lawns and potted plants will turn any outdoor area into a garden to be proud of!
You don’t need a lot of space to create a garden. All you need is imagination and determination to bring any yard to life.
Repurposed Alley
Do you have an alley running along the side of your property? This area is often overlooked when designing outdoor spaces. Put this valuable real estate to good use with some beautiful paving.
Place potted plants along the side of the alley. Attach window boxes along the side of the house, and fill them with fragrant herbs. Or, fix a decorative wall feature against the inside of the exterior wall.
How To Maximize Your Small Outdoor Space Design
Keep It Simple
A small area will seem more spacious if you stick to a simple color palette and uncomplicated decor theme. Limit your color palette to no more than 2 or 3 colors.
Neutrals, blues, and greens will visually enlarge the space. These are ideal colors for outdoor areas and patios as they mimic the color palette of nature. These cooler colors also tend to make an area look larger.
Create A Focal Point
If there’s too much going on the eye will not know where to look. This can make your outdoor area seem cluttered and chaotic.
Give the eye something to focus on with one main area of interest. A swing seat, a rope hammock, a statue, or a water feature. Even a birdbath or beautiful display of potted plants can be your focal point.
For a harmonious look, tie in other elements of your outdoor space with this focal point. You can do so with a specific color palette or decor theme.
Incorporate Vertical Space
Don’t get so caught up in how to make use of horizontal space that you forget about the vertical space. Make the most of this space through the use of vertical gardens, hanging baskets, or creeping plants.
Your choice of plants will be determined by the climate, availability of light, and humidity levels. Consult your local plant nursery specialist for advice on which plants would best suit your outdoor space environment.
Clearly Defined Zones
A small area, when divided into clearly defined zones, can seem more organized and therefore give the illusion of greater space. The trick is to use every available inch of space in innovative ways.
Retaining walls made of paving stones can be used to demarcate areas between the garden and paved entertaining areas. Areas for seating on an enclosed patio can be easily demarcated with the clever positioning of benches.
Reduce The Clutter
Any outdoor space that is laden with clutter, will look smaller than it truly is. Store gardening implements and DIY tools etc where they belong, in a shed or storage bins.
If you do not have these, they’re available from most hardware or home improvement stores. They will keep your items neat and safe from damage and your outdoor space will look more spacious as a result!
Conclusion
Just because you have a small outdoor space, it doesn’t mean it can’t be beautiful! Use some of these outdoor space design ideas and tips to create a stunning outdoor oasis for your home.
