There are few things in life as enticing as basking in the sun while enjoying the outdoor living space of your own home. With modern space-saving outdoor furniture, you have everything you need to create the perfect garden oasis, regardless of its size or shape.
Modern outdoor furniture for small spaces is often referred to as multifunctional or space-saving furniture. Space-saving furniture (whether indoor or outdoor) is defined as any furniture that is versatile and compact, allowing you to make the most of a small living area.
Modern, convertible furniture is on the rise today, and many people are choosing to live in smaller, more affordable homes. Often, these smaller homes come with smaller backyards. Let’s take a closer look at the concept of a stylish, space-saving future for outdoor living.
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Ideas for Small Patio Furniture
Even if you have a small patio or balcony, you can still have a beautiful, functional outdoor living space. With space-saving furniture (and a little imagination), it is possible to create an inviting, relaxing backyard retreat. Here are some examples of ideas for small patio furniture:
Choose sofas with slim profiles. Since sofas are typically the largest piece of outdoor furniture, it can be challenging to place them on a small patio or balcony. Choosing units with a smaller, sleeker design helps save space. Placing sofas against a wall or a sofa in a corner creates space in the middle and makes the patio appear larger!
Create a dining area with a bistro set. For outdoor entertaining, a dining area is a must. Instead of traditional dining furniture, which can be cumbersome, try a more compact option like a bistro set. This includes a table and two chairs, smaller and sleeker in design, which is perfect for balconies with size restrictions.
Incorporate individual patio chairs. These pieces are the most versatile when it comes to outdoor furniture. They are portable, foldable, and available in various shapes and sizes. And with so many modern versions on the market today, you don’t have to compromise style and functionality.
Use folding tables instead of coffee tables. Folding tables are the perfect companions for individual patio chairs. They save space by folding down when not in use (unlike a conventional coffee table) and can easily be moved to accommodate any outdoor living area.
Simplify with storage seating furniture. Benches that double as storage space are a great example of multifunctional, space-saving patio furniture. Add a few cushions and decorative pillows, and you have a stylish seating area that also keeps your patio clean and tidy.
Ideas for Small Balcony Furniture
A tiny balcony is often the companion of a small apartment or condominium. However, it is possible to create a beautiful outdoor oasis with smaller amenities, a place where you can enjoy the morning sun with a cup of coffee. Below is a list of ideas for small balcony furniture:
Add a murphy table. Attaching a folding table to a balcony wall or railing is a great space-saving idea. It can be used to store drinks, food, and other dining items. Perfect for entertaining, it can be raised and stored when not in use.
Use nesting tables. These furniture pieces are both modern and versatile. They stack when not in use, making a small balcony appear larger. Great for entertaining, they work well with folding outdoor chairs.
Hang a hammock. A comfortable, space-saving piece, a hammock is a great idea for a small balcony. It is lightweight, trendy, and affordable. Provided your building doesn’t have a problem with drilling holes into exterior walls, a hammock is the perfect choice!
Use a sectional gate as seating. A sectional gate is a great idea for a small balcony. It fits perfectly in the corner and creates space in the middle of your balcony, making the area appear larger. Choose one with a sleeker profile and add a decorative throw pillow for that modern, stylish touch!
Try a mattress instead of chairs. Place a small mattress on the floor of the balcony. This can serve as both a comfortable seating area and a cozy reading nook. Add cushions for style and comfort – a contemporary twist on a classic furniture piece.
Ideas for a Small Back Porch
A (albeit small) back porch can be a great place to sit, relax, and enjoy the beauty of nature. Here are some ideas for making the most of your limited back porch area.
Invest in a pergola. This is a great way to give a small porch a modern look and bring a touch of Mediterranean glamour to an otherwise simple area. It can also provide partial shade with aesthetic appeal.
Add a wall sconce. Adding after-market lighting brings warmth to a small porch area. An easy and cost-effective solution for a porch without natural light. Soft lighting also provides the perfect ambiance for stargazing on a clear night.
Host a screening. This is a great idea for a small porch as it creates a spacious feeling by becoming an extension of indoor living space. It also helps shield your porch from the elements such as sun, rain, and wind. A great spot to enjoy a coffee or a drink with guests after dinner.
Create a cozy zone. Add a streamlined couch with comfortable cushions and some throw pillows to create a warm, inviting space. A few nesting tables placed in front and beside the couch serve as coffee and side tables. The perfect spot to relax and unwind on the weekends with a good book and a cup of tea.
Add greenery. An essential part of any outdoor living space, bringing in green adds color, texture, and “life” to your porch. Consider investing in a modern plant bench that provides both seating and a home for your potted plants.
Ideas for Porch Furniture for Small Homes
Since most porch areas are small, space-saving furniture is recommended with minimal decorations. A bistro set is a great idea. It is compact and easy to store during the colder months. It is also made of special powder-coated steel that is rust-resistant. Place a few potted plants around it, and you have a cozy, inviting porch area to enjoy your morning coffee.
How to Decorate Your Patio?
Deciding how to decorate your patio can be a challenge. Regardless of size, it should feel both inviting and relaxing. Below are ten examples of how you can transform your patio into an attractive and comfortable outdoor oasis:
- Enhance your patio with outdoor rugs, decorative pillows, plants (real or artificial), and string lights to create an extension of your cozy indoor living space.
- Hang curtains for comfort and privacy. Use lightweight, flowing (cost-effective) materials to soften the patio area.
- Provide additional seating (while saving space) with floor cushions. These add style and comfort to your outdoor living space.
- Add a lounging area by incorporating a hammock, daybed, or lounge chair. Add decorative pillows for added comfort and style.
- Use multifunctional pieces such as nesting tables, folding chairs, and storage benches to save space.
- Have a radio or Bluetooth speaker on hand. Music creates ambiance and a soothing atmosphere for your outdoor living space.
- Add pops of color. By keeping the furniture neutral and incorporating splashes of color, you give your patio or deck a modern flair.
- Add a space-saving fire pit. The glow of a fire pit adds warmth and allure to your patio. There are a wide variety of outdoor fire pits available on the market today, choose the size and shape that best suits your style and budget.
- Add a collapsible gazebo. If space permits, a pop-up gazebo is a simple and affordable option for providing shade and privacy.
- Create a cozy dining area. A bistro table is a great amenity. It saves space while providing a place to sit, eat, and drink.
Related Questions
Can multifunctional furniture be used both indoors and outdoors? Yes, most types of multifunctional furniture can be used both inside and outside the home, especially pieces like nesting tables, folding chairs, and storage benches, depending on whether the material is weather-resistant or not.
What are the most durable types of outdoor furniture? Some of the most durable types of outdoor furniture include those made of wicker, aluminum, steel, plastic, and/or wood. These are all strong materials that can withstand outdoor elements such as sun, rain, and wind.
Conclusion
As you now know from this article, there are many ways to create a modern and comfortable outdoor living space, regardless of the size or shape of your patio, deck, porch, or balcony. Space-saving furniture is contemporary, versatile, and affordable – a must-have for smaller areas that don’t want to sacrifice style for functionality. Now, sit back, relax (with that tropical drink in hand), and enjoy your outdoor oasis!
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