With many of us still working remotely and spending more time at home, it’s important that we take time to go outside and soak up some Vitamin D. If you’re thinking that the size of your backyard is not ideal for hanging out, think again! With the right layout and decor, you can create a space that is open, cozy, and full of fresh air. Discover some of our favorite design ideas for small outdoor spaces.
Create ambiance. Though your backyard is full of natural light during the day, you’re on your way to creating a yard you’ll never want to leave. Hanging string lights or Edison bulbs allows you to stay outside long after the sun sets. You can border your perimeter with the lights or string them overhead from poles on opposite ends. For those who want to save on energy, consider placing solar-powered lights around your yard.
Embrace greenery. Maybe your backyard is surrounded by trees or plants; perhaps it’s not. But that shouldn’t stop you from embracing all that nature has to offer. If you are lucky enough to have greenery already surrounding you, make sure you keep everything trimmed and healthy, so it looks clean and fresh in your space. If you need some help, bring in some of your favorite plants or flowers. Chrysanthemums and lavender are known to keep bugs away, and they look pretty, too!
Make use of the walls. When you’re in a small space, you need to take advantage of what you can do vertically. Many homeowners are opting to create vertical gardens in their small outdoor spaces. Research which plants, herbs, or vegetables work best in your area, and you can create one of your own. You can hang plants or flower boxes from your walls as well. One way to make the space appear bigger than it is is to hang a mirror. This is an indoor trick that works just as well outside!
Get creative with seating. Comfortable seating plays a considerable role in how often you want to run outside and relax. If a table with four chairs feels overwhelming your space, consider adding bench seating along one wall. You’ll be able to place a table in front of it for when you want to have a meal al fresco or lounge across it while reading. Another seating option is floor pillows. They provide comfort and are capable of being moved around and stored away.
Invest in multifunctional furniture. No matter what small space you’re trying to design, furniture that can work double-duty is a must. For your backyard specifically, you can look into firepits that double as a table. Trays can also act as tabletops when placed on a stand. You should also consider whether you want to hide items and protect them from the elements when need be. A bar cart can serve drinks and store supplies or accessories.
Play with optical illusions. Like the mirror trick, there are other ways you can make an area appear larger with simple design tactics. Since stripes are elongating, use them to your advantage, whether that be with an area rug, the base of a table, or along one of your walls. Use colors that make the space feel vast and open. White and bright, vibrant hues are a good start.
Fix up the floor. What is the foundation of your backyard—dirt, cement, grass? Whatever it may be, you have options to create a whole new floor. You could lay down tile, wood, or an area rug to completely transform the space. Are you a beach lover? Consider adding some sand to a section of your backyard. If you want to create the illusion of separate areas outside, place tile or wood in only half of the space. Think about the kind of maintenance you want to perform before you commit to what type of flooring you want.
It doesn’t matter how big or small your backyard is! Our team can help transform your small outdoor space into a tiny oasis. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary in-home design consultation!
