Decor Ideas for Small Outside Spaces

There are many ways to add style to small outdoor spaces.jaula en el patio image by JOSE ANTONIO LAVADO from Fotolia.com

Many people spend time regularly in their home's outdoor area, according to designers at The Landscape Design Site. Rather than large yards or pool areas, some people only have small outdoor spaces, such as patios, porches or courtyards, to work with. If that is your situation, there are many different types of decorating ideas to make the most out of your small space.

Function

According to Patio Ideas Guide, one way to make the most out of a small outdoor space is by determining its function. For example, some people want an additional outdoor living space, complete with a grill and table and chairs. Others want a small Zen meditation place or garden. Most small spaces only have room to accommodate one or two purposes; so, decide how you'd like to utilize your space.

Use normal to miniature-sized versions of seating and accessories, rather than oversized pieces, to prevent a cluttered, cramped look. For example, some people use bistro tables with two chairs in place of larger four-person patio tables. If your small space is surrounded by a wall or fence, paint a mural or whitewash it with a lighter color to give it an open, airy atmosphere.

You may not have a lot of square footage to work with, but make the most out of your small outdoor space by using the vertical area, as well. Some people hang small water fountains on the courtyard walls. Others install wooden trellises on the surrounding walls and plant climbing roses on them. If you have a tree on your small patio, string small lights around its base and hang potted flowering plants and bird feeders from its branches. Utilize awnings, eves and overhangs. Many people hang wind chimes, bells or Chinese lanterns from them. The key is to decorate your small space from "head to toe." However, stick with one consistent decorating theme and don't overdo it. For example, if your theme is a Zen garden, do not hang tribal masks on the walls.

Many small outdoor spaces have concrete, stone or gravel foundations, rather than lush grassy yards. However, you can still have the benefits of live greenery, without the hassle and maintenance of a lawn. Place potted plants, flowers and herbs to add texture, fragrance and style to your patio or terrace. Don't add too many---make sure you can still move around in the space. Place the potted plants in the outdoor area's corner spaces. Some people even incorporate planters that hang from the top of the fence or wall. Choose plants that will work with your outdoor area's sunlight. Move your plants around and change them out to fit the seasons as well.