How to Make Your Small Backyard Look Bigger - With Expert Tips

More often than not, I find that homeowners have a difficult time designing smaller outdoor spaces. From petite patios and apartment balconies to small backyards, these spaces come in a variety of different sizes and shapes. Whether you feel that you have limited space or plenty of it, you can create a functional area with the tips and ideas below. But first, let’s talk about how I was able to transform my own small space into an alfresco oasis that my whole family can enjoy.

As you can see, the space I had to work with is small, open, and undesirable with the eyesore of an air conditioner unit. The task before me was to know what I had to work around, determine the style I wanted, and prioritize my goals for this space.  

I ran into several issues. How did I even want to use this space? How could I make it feel larger, upscale, and exciting to be in? I found that I had to work around a basement window well cover, air conditioner, and the stairs and deck leading out from the home. Since the grass is a shared space, I was working with a tiny yard that’s basically nonexistent. 

The vision for my space was to create somewhere I could relax while my little one plays, barbecue with family, and enjoy the weather. The space is too small for us to have different entertaining zones, so I found that I needed furniture with multifunctional purposes. 

I also wanted it to be cozy, warm, and inviting. I wanted to emphasize the natural beauty of the neighborhood landscape while staying true to my modern-transitional style.

To create visual separation, I added string lighting along the edge of my patio. I hung the lights at 7 feet to expand the height and width—and make the whole patio feel cozy when illuminated. 

However, I still needed to tackle the multifunctionality aspect. I was able to do so with a few DIY projects:

• I purchased a file cabinet, coated it with rust-resistant primer, and finished up with stone-textured paint for a concrete look. I then designed a removable top that’s stained to match the air conditioner cover. This now acts as an end table, extra storage, and a base to hang up string lights. 
• I created a well-ventilated air conditioner cover so that it was camouflaged but still able to function properly. I added four posts and created a modern pattern with the cedar wood slats. The air conditioner cover blocks the unit and acts as an end table for drinks. 
• In addition to the file cabinet, I added string lighting posts with planters below. This accomplished two goals—the planters created a beautiful grounding effect while drawing your eye up to the string lights. I had them stretch along the largest side of my patio, which creates the illusion a space is wider than it actually is. 
• To make use of my vertical space, I opted to design a wall garden. This could be done with flowers, succulents, or anything you want to use your green thumb for. I chose to hang them in a staggered pattern to give more visual height.

Finally, to achieve my modern-transitional look, I focused on blacks, whites, creams, cedar accents, and pops of greenery for color. This styling lets every element have its moment while simultaneously working together to create a homey feel. 

If you’re ready to start making the most out of your own small-scale backyard or patio, the following tips will help guide you through the process.

Here are some ideas for how you could use your outdoor space:

• From casual meals to happy hours, outdoor bar seating provides space to entertain. Make sure to find a table (or mount a countertop) that’s about 42” high for optimal comfort and to leverage vertical space. 
• Love to have friends over? Create a conversation area with a loveseat and two chairs or seating around a fire pit. 
• A dining set is also great for family card games. 
• Exercising and outdoor games like cornhole create entertainment for all. Incorporate a game area for guests that can quickly be rearranged for you and your family to get in a quick 30-minute HITT workout.
• Add chaise loungers for sunbathing to create the best space for relaxing and working on your summer tan.
• If you’re an avid reader, the same loungers you would use for sunbathing can be reimagined for a reading area.

First things first—don’t forget to measure the space to better understand the size you’re working with. In addition, remember this doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. We’re just working toward a beautiful view. Here’s what you should keep in mind when creating a concept for your space:

• Extra storage for cushions and decor allows for optimization of your space during unfavorable weather. Look for furniture that provides this option.
• Wall gardens with edible plants such as herbs can provide that perfect touch to your culinary adventures. I love adding items that can bring brightness to the space and bring my dishes to life! 
• String lights pull double duty in adding warmth and extra lighting. I love to purchase lighting with mini solar panels that charge during the day. (It’s always a bonus when you can save some money!) 
• Barbecue areas with ample shelving and seating make for a great conversation space where the cook can also interact with guests. 
• A dining area with comfortable furniture can be used for both lounging and eating. 
• A fire pit is a great way to bring people together, whether you want to make s’mores with the kids or have a glass of wine to relax. 
• Water features instantly make your space feel peaceful. Just like a beautiful babbling brook, the sound brings comfort. A small pond also provides a serene ambiance.
• A small garden could also include tall and or tropical plants. Adding greenery can liven up the space by adding color, visual texture, and privacy.

Next, you’ll want to visually expand the width. While this might sound like something so obvious, there may be ways that you haven’t heard of. For example, adding string lights along the widest points will create an illusion of more space.

• Outdoor lighting (torches or fire pit)
• Posts with planters below to hang string lights
• Oversized umbrella
• Vertical garden or trellis
• Columnar evergreens or tall native plants
• Plants with large leaves
• Smart storage

Remember that camouflaging anything blocking your line of sight will create better curb appeal. To achieve this, you could try a: 

• DIY air conditioner screen
• DIY storage end table

Remember to leave room to move around your space, which will also make it feel larger than it is. It’s important that people feel they have enough elbow room to relax. Try using furniture with narrow silhouettes. 

If you’re a parent of young kids who need a play area, make sure to include small-space-friendly activities. Options include sensory bins that can go on the tabletops or mini gardens just for them. 

The sky’s the limit—your space is really only limited by what you can imagine. Spend time creating a plan and knowing what you want. The rest will fall into place.

Happy creating from your designer next door!