Size doesn't matter: How to entertain in a small outdoor space

Summer is here, and as we emerge from our Queenslanders, bungalows, townhouses and apartments, our focus shifts to prepping outdoors ready for relaxation and entertaining.

“Australians love to connect with nature – it’s food for our souls,” says designer Lynne Bradley. “We are known for our love of barbecues and turning our backyards into outdoor dining and living rooms.” 

So, what do you do if your outdoor space is a skyrise patio or a garden so tiny you can barely recline your sun lounger? We grilled the experts on transforming the smallest garden, balcony, or terrace into the ideal summertime destination.

Opt for flexible furniture 

As eco-conscious living becomes the norm, many of us are opting for properties with a small footprint. Luckily, style doesn’t discriminate; even the smallest outdoor space can look and function as beautifully as a large one. 

“Embrace your small space, and choose furniture that complements its size,” suggests furniture specialist Megan Briers from Patio, Balcony, Outdoor Living.

“Small furniture suits small spaces, so choose side tables rather than a large coffee table and look for clean lines and colours for a sense of tranquillity.”

Make a small garden or patio visually inviting by drawing inspiration from your indoor spaces. Pay special attention to your furniture arrangement, ensuring all seating is at a similar level to allow for conversation and include some of your favourite interior touches. “Add comfortable luxuries such as quality lounge seating and use outdoor rugs to define zones,” suggests Bradley. 

Folding bistro chairs as extra seating make a small space flexible and are handy on a small balcony that feels crowded with permanent pieces. “You can also fold up and store your furniture when not in use,” adds Briers.

In a garden setting, use multi-tasking hardscaping to give the space purpose and maximise its square footage. “Incorporate built-in seating around the courtyard’s perimeter, like benches or low walls,” says Clea Cregan of Miniscapes Projects. “They serve as seating during gatherings and as a border for garden beds or planters.”

Add style and comfort

Up the cosy ante to make your space feel more rustic, intimate, and inviting. “Invest in high-quality outdoor accessories designed to withstand the elements,” says Cregan. “Add seat cushions, throws, and outdoor rugs and choose comfortable seating for your outdoor patio.” 

Prints, colours and patterns add pizazz and set the tone for a fresh, modern, summery vibe.

“Cushions provide personality, so use colours that reflect your personality,” says Briers. “It adds a sense of playfulness, regardless of size. Don’t use too many cushions; scale their size to ensure subtle impact. Their blend of colours and patterns should draw the eye.”

Shine a light

Elevate your space with layers of lighting designed for functionality and atmosphere. “String lights, lanterns, pathway lights, and solar-powered fixtures set the mood and extend the usability of your space into the evening,” says Cregan. “Fire pits add warmth and ambience in the cooler months; in summer, turn your firepit into a coffee table with a timber lid.”

Portable, rechargeable, cordless lighting lets you change your space’s ambience whenever needed. Look for mid-century designs or cool, contemporary looks that match your decor.

Think vertically

If your outdoor area has more wall space than floor space, go up, suggests Cregan. “Maximise vertical space with trellises, pergolas, or wall-mounted planters for climbing plants, such as Boston ivy, Virginia Creeper, or Jasmine,” she says. “Various leaf shapes, sizes, and colours create interest.” 

Trick the eye by painting your fence black or charcoal (Monument and Domino by Dulux are popular choices) for a space that instantly looks larger. “The fence recedes into the background, making the garden feel larger,” says Cregan.

Add depth and dimension with raised plant beds and arrange pots of different sizes and shapes. “Edibles, herbs, perennials, espaliered fruit, evergreen shrubs, grasses, climbers, and dwarf trees are all suitable for small spaces,” she says.

Throw some shade

When it’s getting too hot to stay outside, an effective shade solution is a must to keep you cool and protected from UV rays. “Consider retractable awnings or shade sails to protect you from the sun,” suggests Cregan. “Vines grown over a pergola or wires are also effective.”

An outdoor umbrella is one of the easiest and most cost-effective answers. Look for a sturdy style with a canopy constructed from durable, waterproof acrylic fabric. Choose a sunny floral or classic stripe for maximum impact.