How to Turn a Tiny Patio Into the Backyard Escape of Your Dreams (2024)

But before we get into all the decorating possibilities, a few small patio idea essentials: First, you’ll want to consider the placement in relation to the sun.

Shade should always be part of patio design, either with an overhead structure, such as a pergola, or movable shading. A retractable awning or large umbrella is a less expensive way to provide a shady spot. Next up, you'll want to think about privacy. If you’re squished up against your neighbor in an urban setting, try strategically placed containers with vining plants to create a green wall (and flowering plants or herbs to make the space feel warm and welcoming!), or something like decorative panels so you don’t feel like you’re always on display when you’re outside enjoying your small patio.

If you’re already inspired and ready to tackle your outdoor space, House Beautiful's editors are here to offer 45 show-stopping small patio ideas straight from designers. Packed with stylish decorating ideas and clever space-saving solutions, they're small patios you'll want to re-create before summer arrives.

While petite, this patio—at a San Francisco home by design teams Regan Baker Design, Medium Plenty, and Terremoto—packs a punch. The seating, table, and fire pit are all properly sized to ensure the area doesn't feel overcrowded. Greenery, including a cherry laurel hedge that will grow over time, amplifies a sense of serenity.

If you don't have much wall or ground space for decor, make your patio stand out with patterned tiles. For the patio of a Maui, Hawaii, retreat, designer Breeze Giannasio chose black-and-white ones from Merola Tile. Chairs with bamboo detailing fit right in with the surrounding landscape.

On a patio with brick pavers laid in a herringbone pattern, interior design firm Arent&Pyke placed a small bistro table with a speckled top. Backless green stools and bench seating make the area feel more open.

If you're working with a small backyard and don't have room for both a lawn and patio, combine the two with stone pavers separated by grass (real or faux!). The mixed materials also offer a manicured look as this 1930s cottage by designer Javier Burkle proves.

Incorporate various elements found in nature—from potted plants and large trees to irregularly shaped stone pavers and a stone fireplace. But don't be afraid to add contrast: Romanek Design Studio included black-and-white striped chairs for a modern pop.

Lots of of textures create a statement. This area by designers Leigh Anne Muse and Lili O'Brien is a prime example. The flooring is made of pavers and pebbles set in concrete for a smooth and textured look. Wicker furniture, patterned pillows, and a plush blanket complete the look.

For the party plaza of a Texas home, designer Linda Hayslett kept the color scheme neutral. The soft colors creates a cozy feeling while the simple furniture makes it feel clean.

On a sleek, modern patio, designer Robson Rak let chic materials stand out. Seating wrapped in upbeat blue fabric and a nook filled with firewood add flair.

Designer Summer Jensen of Hawk + Co, outfitted four metal chairs with white plush pillows to offer comfy seating that isn't unwieldy.

Lack of space doesn't mean you can't have an outdoor bar on your patio. Just take it from this dining area by design firm HurleyHafen, which features a built-in wall nook filled with co*cktail essentials.

Give any outdoor area European charm by introducing cobblestone-inspired flooring, as designer Wendy Owen did here. Add climbing vines and loungers for a dreamy setup.

With floating sofas and hanging chairs, your patio will instantly feel more open and airy. This space by Arent&Pyke features an elevated sofa in navy fabrics paired with textured furniture and a warm rug—giving the patio a high-end feel.

The ivy-covered archway at a Palm Beach, Florida, home by Kemble Interiors and SMI Landscape Architecture helps section off the patio area while ensuring it still feels open. Chaise seating by Celerie Kemble on mosaic tile flooring invites relaxation.

Don't have room for a covered patio, pergola, or even an umbrella? No problem. Opt for furniture with built-in canopies for instant shade, like the seating on this patio by designer Sarah Gilbane.

Make the journey to your small patio a dreamy experience by creating a unique path. Here, landscape designer and Terremoto founder David Godshall added distinct stepping stones surrounded by lush beds of greenery.

Interior design firm ETC.etera made this outdoor area cozy and stylish with custom cushions on the fire pit and bench. For a similar hack, use floor cushions covered in outdoor fabric instead of chairs and benches to save space.

Whether you're a fan of string lights or sconces, lighting can make or break your patio—especially if you tend to spend time there at night. On this patio at a home by architect Elizabeth Roberts, sconces and a pendant ensure the small space is adequately lit come nightfall.

Save floor space by featuring your favorite plants in wall planters. Here, designer Linda Hayslett beautified white walls with succulents inside contrasting planters.

Showcase greenery by designing a "living" wall. Don't worry, even this one doesn't use real greenery. Designer Alison Victoria used faux plants to create this version in a small backyard as an alternative to a garden. To create it, she removed the glass from an antique pier mirror and nailed faux-fir panels directly onto the fence. The best part is that it requires no maintenance.

Create the illusion of a rug on a small patio with paint. For a California home, designer Noz Nozawa worked with decorative artist Caroline Lizarraga to give the patio a modern black-and-white painted design. This trick is especially useful if you can't find an outdoor rug in the right size and don't want to invest in a custom one.