As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, the allure of the outdoors beckons, inspiring many to transform their small outdoor spaces into cozy retreats. While expansive yards offer endless possibilities, those with limited space can still create inviting havens with a bit of ingenuity. Explore these ten impressive small-space outdoor makeovers, each showcasing innovative solutions to infuse style into diminutive areas. Discover the secrets behind these transformations and gather inspiration for your own petite oasis just in time for summer.
- An Italian Courtyard-Inspired Balcony Makeover
Sierra and Evan, apartment dwellers, enlisted the help of lifestyle blogger Elizabeth Van Lierde to revamp their uninspiring balcony. The goal was to impart character and functionality to a space that resembled a “plain bagel.” Through the use of neutral colors and natural textures, including wood furniture and woven basket pendants, Elizabeth transformed the balcony into an enticing retreat reminiscent of an Italian courtyard.
- A Plant-Filled Redo for a Hawaiian Patio
Beth Pateman, a Honolulu resident, sought to enhance her apartment patio’s appeal by incorporating sleek black chairs and a table. The true magic, however, emerged with the addition of over 20 potted plants, turning the once-unused space into a fully styled outdoor room. Beth now enjoys a picturesque outdoor living area with a vibrant array of greenery.
- Zone-Focused Makeover for an L-Shaped Patio
Naveen Shakir, from The Design Souk, tackled the challenge of transforming Kristina’s L-shaped, 180-square-foot patio. Focused on affordability and reversibility, Naveen divided the space into a dining and living area, accentuating the entire patio with a luxurious black-painted wood pergola. The result was a multifunctional oasis maximizing every inch of space.
- Neglected Patio Turned Welcoming Hangout
Blogger Laura, a lover of decorating, turned her attention to a neglected front patio that lacked curb appeal. After acquiring a patio set and introducing cozy touches such as an outdoor rug, lantern, and potted plants, Laura transformed the space in just two weeks. The patio, once overlooked, became a favored hangout spot for Laura and her family.
- Transformation with Paint for an Unused Patio
Saima Sharoff and her husband embarked on renovating their 640-square-foot fixer-upper, leaving the backyard untouched. The neglected wooden back porch from the 1930s received a facelift with a rich navy blue door, a new deck, and a mix of vintage and existing furniture. Saima now cherishes their private outdoor space, previously overlooked and underutilized.
- Cozy and Private Refresh for a Brooklyn Brownstone
Bev Wilson, of Room Sauce, and her fiancé sought to enhance their Brooklyn brownstone’s modern balcony, facing a busy street. By surrounding it with bamboo fences, faux greenery, and comfortable furniture, they achieved a serene and private retreat. The straightforward project transformed their outdoor space, making it more appealing and intimate.
- Plant-Filled Patio “Getaway”
Jessica Elyse transformed her small patio into a functional and aesthetically pleasing area shared with three roommates. Adorned with blue metal furniture, a striped rug, and lush hanging plants, the patio exudes a tropical ambiance. The addition of numerous plants creates a private and natural atmosphere, offering a comfortable outdoor space for various activities.
- Balcony Warmed up with Faux Turf
Sabrina Sosa, a renter in downtown Vancouver, revitalized her small and lackluster balcony. Using removable turf, small furniture, potted plants, and flowers, Sabrina created a relaxing retreat without making permanent changes. Emphasizing the impact of small details, she turned her once uninspiring balcony into a perfect spot for leisure.
- Dingy Balcony Refreshed with DIYs
Shannon Bowen embarked on a month-long, $500 makeover for her drab and dingy balcony. Painting surfaces white, stenciling a blue-gray pattern on the floor, and creating floating flower boxes from recycled wine crates revitalized the space. Shannon added varying-height pots, plant stands, and decorative tables, resulting in a lush and colorful oasis.
- Charming Balcony Redo
Liz Ferguson decided to give attention to her balcony, deemed an afterthought by the previous owners. With a three-piece dining setup from Target, rocking chairs from Amazon, and ambient string lights, Liz transformed the balcony into a charming outdoor living room. Stepping outside into this little oasis, as Liz describes it, feels truly special.
