Sometimes, less is more - this is certainly the case with small backyard designs. Designing a small backyard space for maximum functionality and aesthetic appeal might seem tricky, but there are some simple ways to accomplish your goals.
Here are some small backyard ideas to help you get started on your own design:
Create a seating area with a fire pit
Choosing the right type of fire pit will let you enjoy the allure of a cozy fire, no matter the square footage. Portable outdoor stoves can be a great substitute in a pinch, while bowl or cylinder-shaped miniature fire pits are economical to allow for maximum seating potential.
For seating, opt for folding chairs to adjust for groups of different sizes. You can stow away the extras when not in use, leaving more room for other activities.
Plant a living wall
With the amount of new tools and planter solutions available for outdoor use, vertical gardening has never been easier. Create your own vertical garden for your small yard by hanging rows of planters on a wall or fence. Whether you choose a flower garden or an herb garden, you can enjoy the fresh greenery while still saving space.
Emphasize the essentials
One key to designing for small outdoor spaces is to focus on the basics first. If you prioritize major pieces like furniture and storage options before getting into the decorative details, you'll make smarter use of available floor space. Include comfort in your planning, as well: have an option for shade and shelter from the elements to get maximum use of your space.
Take an indoor-outdoor approach to decorating
Bring the indoors outside by adding classic interior pieces to your patio furniture. Area rugs, throw pillows and blankets are perfect for a cozy backyard seating area, and further blur the line between indoor and outdoor space. For easy care and maintenance, choose weatherproof materials.
Designing a small space can be simple and fun. Keep these small backyard ideas in mind when planning your next outdoor decorating project and get the most out of your small backyard.
About the Author
Kyung Kim
Hi, I'm Kyung Kim. I immigrated from South Korea to the United States in 1968 when I was 7 years old. I have seen my mom struggle with the English language and work hard to raise her four kids by herself. Still to this day, I don't know how she pulled it off, but she bought her first home in 1979 for $70,000 and because of that decision, she was able to live without worrying about her financial future. I want that for everyone, to feel the pride of home ownership and to build their financial wealth using real estate as part of their financial portfolio. I feel so blessed to play a small role in helping others reach this goal.
I live in Beaverton with my husband, Richard. My mom, who lived with us for several years, passed away in our home in February 2022. Her first home purchase in 1979 made it possible for her to live to the very end, without worrying about her finances. As of August 2022 with a little downpayment assistance, our four children own their own homes. Being in real estate, I quickly realized that if they didn't buy now, they may be priced out of the market in the future. Whether that would have been the case, we will never know, but what we do know is that they are all realizing some good, healthy appreciation in their home values.
As passionate as I am about people owning their homes, I'm also passionate about giving back to our community. I support Compassion First, a non-profit organization that provides aftercare for sex trafficked girls in Indonesia. My husband and I also feel called to financially support social injustice organizations.
I'd love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.
