The Top 94 Small Patio Ideas – Exterior Home and Design
Creating your own perfect get-away doesn’t require a ton of space. These small patio ideas prove just how much you can do with a tiny space.
Wouldn’t it be nice if you could head outside on warm summer nights and eat a delicious home-cooked meal under the stars? Or enjoy cocktails in the spring or fall when the weather is perfect—not too warm and not too cold. You can have a usable outdoor living area, even if you have a small backyard patio.
The key is to have a smart patio design that enables you to utilize the space completely. Start by figuring out how you want to use the space, which can help guide you in deciding on the best outdoor patio idea for your outdoor living space. Get inspired by these ideas and start planning your backyard makeover.
1. Small Patio Ideas for Backyards
If you have a large backyard, use it to your advantage when creating your small patio space. The larger space around your patio gives the illusion that your backyard patio is bigger than it really is. You could use this space to create the perfect outdoor kitchen. Then place picnic tables out on the lawn.
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You could create the perfect cocktail hour space with a couple of Adirondack chairs and a fire pit. Then you can gaze out over your backyard as you sip cocktails and stay warm by the fire.
The key to making this a success is with the backyard landscaping. The rest of your backyard needs to be attractive to look at. Start by creating a smooth transition from the patio to the backyard. You could do this with a mini stone wall and path from one to the other. Or you could build a raised patio with gradual tiers going down to the backyard.
If you have a larger budget, you can create a water feature with a fish pond and fountain. This feature will create gentle white noise. Choose plants that can create multiple levels. Plan to use larger trees and bushes towards the far end or back. Then work your way closer to the patio with smaller plants. Choose plants that produce beautiful flowers for the immediate area to create a vibrant view.
2. Contemporary Small Patio Ideas
What’s nice about a contemporary design approach is that it works well with a small patio space. To create a modern design, you’ll want to use simplistic furniture with minimal details and ornamentation. This furniture can also be small in size so that it fits better in your small space. Look for clean, bright white cushions on sleek wood or metal frames.
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Then decorate the space with potted plants that you can prune into neat shapes. This will keep the greenery looking clean. You could hang a shipping pallet or other large rack on your wall or fence. Then hang small pots from it with different herbs. Now you have a useful herb garden and decorative greenery.
If you have a concrete patio, place a geometric patterned outdoor rug. Use exotic wood or bamboo to build a privacy wall on one or two sides of your small patio to create a more intimate space. Then consider hanging a sleek outdoor chandelier or pendant light above the seating area.
3. Covered Small Patio Ideas
Adding a cover to your little patio or small deck space will give you more usability. The right coverage can protect you during the hottest of summer days from the harsh sun and shelter you on the rainy ones. An affordable option is to place a large patio umbrella on your patio. The downside is that the umbrellas are only so big. They’re also canvas, so you’ll need to replace them eventually. The advantage is that they move, so you can adjust them to exactly where you need them.
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More permanent options include a solid extension of your existing roof, a new independent roof, shade sails, louvered, or a pergola. If you’re worried about a solid roof blocking too much light, you can use clear corrugated plexiglass. This will provide protection while also allowing light through.
If you use a pergola, you have the perfect opportunity for a dual purpose covering. Instead of having a separate garden, you can grow your plants on the pergola. Vining plants will love growing on your pergola and provide you with protection from the sun. Some of the best plants for this are bougainvillea, cape or giant Burmese honeysuckle, Carolina jasmine, chocolate vine, grapes, and wisteria.
If you want a tropical vibe for your small patio, consider building a thatched roof. These structures provide shade and are incredibly sturdy. Be sure to check your local codes and regulations before you build any of these structures. You may find there are restrictions on the type and size of the patio cover you can build.
For more covered patio ideas, check out The Top 50 Best Patio Ceiling Ideas .
4. Inexpensive Small Patio Ideas
You can DIY a patio space in your backyard by leveling an area and spreading pea gravel. The gravel is affordable, and you can spread it yourself. Just be sure to level the ground and remove any grass or other plants growing in the area.
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Add some lighting to the space by hanging string lights. You could plug them into an existing exterior plug. Then mount hooks on the exterior of your home to string the lights on. If you want the lights to extend over the entire patio space, install a wood beam on your patio’s outside edge. Dig a hole a couple of feet deep and place the wood beam in it. Make sure the pole is seven feet or taller once in the hole. Secure the pole by filling in the hole with quick-curing concrete, then secure a hook on the top. You can now string your lights across your patio for a light covering.
If you already have a concrete slab for your patio, you can affordably dress it up with a rug. Look for one meant for outdoor use. This will prevent it from holding water and growing mold. A color rug will give the patio a bright pop of color.
You can create cheap yet comfy seating with pallets and large cushions. Stack two or three pallets and then place a large square cushion on top. Finish with over-sized decorative pillows.
For more inexpensive patio ideas, check out The Top 54 Patio Ideas on a Budget .
5. Narrow Small Patio Ideas
Embrace the narrow space by making smart furniture choices. You could have a bench along the wall with cafe tables and one or two and chairs on the other side. Or you could place a couple of comfy chairs with small tables between them in a line looking out over your property.
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Another smart small patio decor idea is to use folding furniture so you can fold it out of the way when not in use. When you do need it, unfold it and set it up. This approach works well with a modern design theme. Keep everything clean and modern.
Don’t sacrifice decor because your space is narrow. Place a large statement plant in the corner to give the space some green. Another option is to place a multi-tiered planter and hang other plants from the roof. This adds levels to the patio, which breaks up the visual and gives the illusion that it’s larger than it really is.
If you aren’t planning on entertaining, turn your patio into a personal oasis escape. A hammock is a perfect outdoor furniture solution for a narrow patio. Place a rug under it and then grow some lush greenery around it. You could use bamboo to create a decorative wall feature. A small fountain in a corner will create white noise and complete the tropical illusion.
6. Small Paver Patio Ideas
There are reasons why so many people create their small patios with poured concrete. Once you pour the patio, it’s durable and a safe non-slip surface. If you find the look of concrete unpleasant, you can apply several finishing treatments. You could etch into it, stamp it, or apply a faux finish. You could even tile your small patio with a natural stone tile to improve the look and maintain a non-slip walking surface.
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If you want something else, you can lay stone pavers to build your patio area. You can choose from flagstone, cobblestone, cut stone, or veneer stone. The one you choose will depend on your budget, your small patio’s size, and the look you’re going for.
Stone and concrete pavers typically have space between them that’s filled with Irish moss or pea gravel. Flagstone will create a continuous and almost smooth surface for your patio. Traditional pavers are the most versatile when it comes to laying them in unique patterns and designs. However, they also create the most varied surface. This is something to think about if you have guests with mobility issues.
For more paver ideas, check out The Top 60 Best Paver Patio Ideas .
7. Tiny Patio Ideas
If you have a tiny outdoor area, look at small patio decorating ideas to maximize your available space. One idea is to build a bench into the side of your house or along one wall of your patio. It will seat multiple people and take up less room than the equivalent number of chairs.
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The second thing you should do is match your shapes. If your outdoor space is round, look for a round table. For a rectangular patio, try a matching long table. This will enable you to use the space effectively without creating dead corners.
When buying your patio furniture, look for items that can serve a dual purpose. You could purchase a coffee table with a removable top. When closed, it’s a normal coffee table. Hidden underneath could be a cooler for storing drinks on a hot day or a fire pit to keep you warm during the cool nights.
A smaller patio has an advantage when it comes to choosing your decor. You can choose multiple bold and bright colors and not worry about it becoming overwhelming. Try adding large, brightly patterned ottomans or poufs for extra seating. When arranging your furniture, place your chairs or couch towards the outer edge. This gives you the most centralized and usable floor space. Face the furniture in order to provide the longest sight lines possible. Looking out over your backyard gives the illusion of the small patio space being bigger.
Small Patio FAQs
How do you landscape a small patio?
Create a cozy space by planting a wall of bushes or trees. This creates a natural visual and sound barrier. You can then either plant in the ground, in flower boxes, or in pots. Also, choose plants of varying heights. A water feature will create white noise and a calming effect.
How do you shade a small patio?
You can create natural shade by planting large trees with leafy branches. Or you could build a pergola over the space. Two or three patio umbrellas can also provide you with a decent amount of shade. Consider using something that you can adjust with the position of the sun for continual shade throughout the day.
How can I make my concrete patio look nice?
Look for ways to make the concrete more attractive. You could paint or stain it for an easy and quick makeover. You could lay an outdoor rug over it. For a more permanent upgrade, you could lay slate tiles down or lay decking over it. Both of these solutions will hide the concrete and transform your concrete patio.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
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Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.
