Dining outside is a treat, and nothing beats the soothing touch of a summer breeze. Enjoying a cold drink on a lush lawn is a simple pleasure that makes warmer months delightful. A backyard, regardless of size, offers endless possibilities. The trick lies in how to design this area effectively. Fortunately, these creative small backyard ideas show that you don't need a vast expanse to enjoy the outdoors.
Even a tiny patch of grass can bring happiness. Designers Bobby Berk and Liza Reyes emphasize that your outdoor space should feel like an extension of your living area. “Treat the outside as if it were the inside but with durable materials,” advises Reyes, making outdoor design feel more approachable. Berk agrees, noting that many backyards are underappreciated. “I love taking the indoors outside and often mirror the same color schemes,” he shares.
With summer slipping away, let's jump into Berk and Reyes's ideas for small backyard transformations. Each suggestion demonstrates that simplicity can be stunning. (And yes, we’ll always need sunscreen.)
Featured image by Michelle Nash.
Explore 8 inspiring small backyard design tips.
Image by Nikole Ramsay.
What’s the best way to maximize a small backyard?
Tip #1: Set your objectives.
Before diving into your backyard plans, consider how you'd like to use this outdoor area. Do you want to dine outside? Relax? Perhaps a bit of both? “Depending on your space's size, a large table for eight or a quaint bistro table for morning coffee can be equally charming,” notes Reyes. Take a moment to visualize your ideal outdoor lifestyle.
Tip #2: Define the area.
Design your outdoor space as you would an indoor room, incorporating foundational elements like rugs, lighting, and sun protection. Will you dine at night or lounge in the sun? For both scenarios, choose items that protect your feet and provide shade when necessary. “A vine-covered pergola or a stylish umbrella can offer great coverage,” Reyes suggests. “A few cushions and pillows can transform outdoor seating into a cozy retreat.”
Newhouse Lighting String Lights
String lights not only add charm but also create a warm ambiance. Anything that channels a Parisian café vibe is a welcome addition.
Shop NowDanika Herrick Lotti Blue and White Outdoor Pillow
Pillows enhance outdoor seating with comfort, and choosing bold prints injects a lively burst of color.
Shop NowTip #3: Opt for multifunctional furniture.
In a compact outdoor area, storage can be a challenge. Berk suggests using furniture that serves multiple purposes. “Rather than filling your space with numerous tables and chairs, consider stools that double as both seating and surfaces.” Also, look for built-in storage solutions whenever possible.
Image by Michelle Nash.
Tip #4: Choose a cohesive color scheme.
A consistent color palette can make any area feel more expansive, including outdoor spaces. This approach helps prevent your small backyard from appearing cluttered and chaotic, according to Berk.
Image by Nikole Ramsay.
How can you enhance the appearance of a small backyard?
Tip #5: Incorporate decorative accents.
You don’t need a complete overhaul to refresh your outdoor area. Berk recommends gradually adding smaller decorative items to elevate the space. Think about bright pillows for seating or elegant table linens. “This enhances the look and feel of your area without straining your wallet,” he adds.
For your outdoor table setting, these napkins offer both function and style, adding depth to your dining experience.
Shop NowTip #6: Utilize existing elements.
Your backyard likely has thriving plants already. “Whether it’s lush greenery or seasonal blooms, think about how to highlight these natural elements,” suggests Berk. Colorful pots or subtle lighting can beautifully showcase your existing plants.
Image by Marta Xochilt Perez.
Tip #7: Include small greenery.
Succulents and tiny cacti are low-maintenance options, Berk points out. Position them on tables or small stools. “They won't obstruct views of your guests across the table,” he adds.
While fresh blooms are always appreciated, a selection of similarly sized, easy-to-care-for plants brings an organic touch to your space.
Shop NowTip #8: Get creative with your needs.
When Reyes wanted something for outdoor relaxation, she repurposed an unused twin mattress from her son’s room. “I covered it with a durable fabric that I could wash frequently,” she describes her improvised daybed. After adding a few pillows, it became the perfect napping spot and “the best hangout area for friends”—all for under $300, she says.
