Transforming Small Outdoor Spaces: 5 Tips for Maximizing Limited Square Footage
A home is never complete without an area where you can enjoy the outside world in an intimate way. It is all good for those with an expansive backyard and lawn. But what if you have a limited space to work on?
Don’t be discouraged! While it can be challenging to decorate and furnish, limited square footage can still be transformed into a sanctuary where you can sit back and relax after a long, busy day.
This handy guide helps you explore some brilliant ways to make the most of limited outdoor space. Check out the following tips and start turning your small outdoor space into a cozy sanctuary.
Tip #1: Measure the Outdoor Space
The very first tip is important. Before you get excited and start dipping your toes into the renovation frenzy, you must ensure that what you have in mind will fit in the limited space. This means taking the time to measure the outdoor area.
Doing this will help you avoid countless costly mistakes. This includes over-furnishing. If you are planning to build a deck and add furniture, you must make sure the space can accommodate them. You won’t have to spend money on a piece of furniture that is too big for the cramped space.
Measuring your outdoor area will also help a lot when you plan out the layout of your outdoor space. You will want every inch to count, allowing you to create an inviting, functional outdoor space that can last for years.
Tip #2: Plan It All Out
Once you have measured the outdoor area, you may start thinking of a clever design to make the most out of the limited space. It’s just like planning to propose to your partner and thinking about when are you going to pull out your vintage engagement ring and pop the question. What do you have in mind? Perhaps you are thinking of a quiet nook where you can enjoy your morning coffee on quiet weekends. Maybe you’d like to have a comfy place where you can host al fresco dinner parties.
The possibilities are endless. It can be overwhelming if you don’t plan out how exactly to go about your outdoor space design. To make the process easier and foolproof, you must thoughtfully consider the whole process. This can be done by creating a plan. Decide how the place will look like and put what happens in each step in detail.
Your plans may include identifying zones where elements need to go. For example, you will designate one corner for the seating furniture and another for potted plants and lighting fixtures. This is also a good time to think about the materials you will prefer.
If you are planning to build a deck, you may pick the kind of wood you will be using. Maybe you would want to learn more about low-maintenance composite decking, as it is a good option if you are looking for durability.
Tip #3: Pick a Theme
A theme can lend a seamless look to your outdoor place. You can also narrow your design choices and keep the style minimal. Your theme will dictate the furniture and other decorations that will need to beautify the area.
Maybe you want to go for something rustic, so you may choose décors that reflect this central theme. You may also pick an inviting spot to serve as the focal point. You will want to stay away from too much clutter because it will overwhelm the whole space and make it look smaller than it already is.
One great idea to make your space bigger is to incorporate vertical elements into your chosen theme. For example, you may design a living wall. Turning it into a vertical garden with hanging planters will draw the eye and make the space look taller.
Tip #4: Make It Sustainable
If you are looking for ways to grow your own food but don’t have enough space for vegetables and herbs, then incorporating plants in your patio may do the trick. You can plant them in pots and make them serve as decorations. It might also be a good idea to hang them from ropes.
Plus, leafy plants can also be an advantage because they can make the space look bigger. They can also hide ugly parts on the wall or serve as a barrier to privacy.
Choose ones that are of different heights to make them look more interesting. Of course, you will want ones that are edible so they can provide food for the family. You won’t only manage to keep your small outdoor space inviting. You can also save money and time by growing your own food.
Tip #5: Use Lighting to Your Advantage
Lighting plays a huge role when it comes to maximizing small spaces. You may want to try using both ask and ambient lighting to create a mood and provide the amount of light you need.
Accent lighting can highlight a particular zone and create depth in the evening hours. You may also want to try layering the lights to brighten the space. This is another way to create more depth.
If you want to embrace the intimacy of space, you may use soft lights to inspire romance. You can also add candlelight with lanterns or hang string lights along railings to leave a festive look.
Wrapping It Up
A small, limited space should not keep you from enjoying every inch of it. It does not have to be overly expensive. These brilliant ideas can inspire you to start transforming your outdoor area and make the most out of the small space without going over budget.
