Design a Seating Arrangement that Expands & Contracts
Before you start rearranging furniture, think about designing a versatile seating arrangement that moves and expands to fit your needs. If you love reading in the warm afternoon sun, look for lounge seating you can sink into and relax. Push an armless loveseat or L shaped sectional against a fence or wall, or opt for a pair of compact lounge chairs you can easily move throughout the day to follow the sun and catch some rays. Nesting tables are accent tables that stack, or “nest”, beneath one another, saving porch or patio space when not in use. Arrange a set near your chairs or loveseats for a convenient spot to rest books and outdoor-safe acrylic drinking glasses. Create an intimate patio seating arrangement with bistro chairs and tables for a classic wrought-iron look perfect for everything from late-afternoon coffee dates to alfresco brunches. Alternatively, consider a drop-leaf table for more versatility—seat several guests when the leaves are fully extended, or collapse the table in half to fit against a wall or rail.
Maximize Your Outdoor Space
Add depth to your small outdoor patio with decor that creates the illusion of space. Pillows in colorful stripes and geometric patterns bring another layer of interest to your seating arrangement and draw focus away from square footage, making your space seem larger than it is. Accessorize neutral-hued cushions with decorative outdoor pillows, and rotate styles seasonally to keep the patio looking fresh. Bright florals and faux botanicals look fresh and inviting on any porch or patio—look for tall shapes and stems that draw the eye upward. For example, hanging planters and curling vines emphasize verticality and make the space feel wider. Pot smaller succulents and blooms in wall mounted planters to free up floor and table space. Wall-mounted candle holders help create a cozy atmosphere after the sun sets. In high traffic areas, substitute flameless candles for classic tealights and pillar candles.
Entertain Guests Alfresco
After you’re finished redecorating, invite friends and family over to enjoy your new outdoor space. If the weather permits, leave the door to the patio open, allowing guests to go in and out as they please. Set up a drink station on a sideboard just inside the door to keep the porch or balcony open for guests to mingle. Serve a signature cocktail or spritzer in a drink dispenser on the buffet, too. Outside, set the table with woven placemats and linen napkins for a textured look. For tight seating arrangements where table space is at a premium, make the most of the surface area with circular placemats and stackable drinkware, or serve dinner buffet-style indoors. If you love a good old-fashioned barbecue but don’t have room for a grill, use a stovetop griddle to cook up burgers, veggies and brats in the kitchen. Bring food platters outside, or invite guests inside to help themselves.
Savor warm summer nights and brisk autumn mornings in your redesigned outdoor space. Get creative with outdoor furniture and decor, and explore new ways to get even more out of your porch, patio or balcony. Share your small outdoor space ideas using the hashtag #CrateStyle.
