One interesting fact about doing a small patio design is that there’s no shortage of great ideas. You are spoilt for choice on the incredible ideas to make your smaller space look better. Some ideas are easy DIY, while others might require an expert hand.
There are countless ways to make a dull-appearing small patio look better. If you work your magic well, you’ll give them a new and exhilarating appearance. You can paint over them, lay a deck, or even add curves with pavers. You have numerous inspirational ideas available that you can try out.
Before your search, let’s share our collection of the best small patio ideas with you. Whatever the case, we’ll dive into these ideas and help you make your concrete patio look better!
Backyard Makeover and Smaller Patio Design Ideas
Are you looking for small backyard patio ideas? Make the most of your space by arranging furniture cleverly. Use built-in benches or foldable tables. Incorporate vertical gardens or hanging planters to add a touch of greenery without taking up precious floor space. Opt for multifunctional pieces like storage ottomans or outdoor rugs with hidden compartments. You can add lighting fixtures to create a cozy ambiance for your intimate outdoor retreat.
From cozy fire pits to stylish outdoor furniture, there are countless ways to transform your backyard into a relaxing oasis. These backyard patio ideas can help you create the perfect outdoor retreat. You can choose a modern, minimalist look or a cozy, rustic vibe.
So, instead of removing the concrete patio, you can try the following to make your patio more attractive. Let’s dive into these concrete patio ideas for small backyards.
1. Small Backyard Stone Paver Patio with Dining Set
If you have a small backyard and are looking for stone patio ideas, you may think you can’t do much with it. But with the right design ideas, you can turn your small space into a cozy oasis. A small patio is a perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning or relax with a glass of wine in the evening.
Stone patios offer a timeless and elegant look for outdoor spaces. Consider using natural stones like flagstone or slate for a rustic feel, or opt for sleek and modern designs with sandstone or limestone. Create unique patterns or incorporate different colors for a personalized touch.
2. Small Backyard Patio with Movie Screen
One great way to entertain guests outdoors is to set up a movie screen and projector. This way, you can host outdoor movie nights for your friends and family. Just invite some neighbors too, so they don’t call the police on you for being too loud!
3. Small Backyard Deck with Grill Cooking Station
One great way to use a small backyard is to build a deck. This will give you extra space for entertaining and relaxing. You can add a grill cooking station to your deck to get creative. This will make it the perfect place for summer cookouts.
4. Small Backyard Concrete Tile Patio with Cooking Station
Creating a multi-purpose space is one way to make the most of a small backyard. For example, this backyard patio features a cooking station, seating area, and garden. Using concrete tiles makes the space feel open and airy while still being low-maintenance.
5. Small Outdoor Space with Gravel Patio and Firepit
Working with a small outdoor space, you can still make it cozy and inviting. Add a gravel patio and firepit for a warm, intimate gathering spot.
6. Budget Patio Furniture and a Small Round Table on a Private Deck
There’s no need to break the bank regarding patio furniture. Choose pieces that are easy to care for, like budget-friendly wicker or plastic. These can even be repurposed pieces from a local salvage or antique shop.
7. Adirondack Chairs and Grill on Covered Stained Concrete Patio
Adirondack chairs are the perfect seating option for a small patio. They are comfortable and stylish. Add a grill to your patio, and cook out all summer.
8. Small Terrace Patio with Hammock and DIY Furniture
One great way to make the most of a small patio is to choose functional and stylish furniture. For example, a hammock is a great relaxing place but takes up very little space.
9. Small Paver Patio with Pallet Side Table and Chairs
Another excellent option for small patio furniture is DIY projects. Making your furniture can save money and get the look you want—plenty of great online tutorials on making outdoor furniture from pallets.
10. Small Flagstone Patio with Umbrella Dining Table
One of the best ways to use a small patio is to create a flagstone patio. Small backyard paver ideas are timeless, beautiful, durable, and easy to care for. You can find flagstone pavers at most home improvement stores, which are relatively inexpensive.
11. Covered Tile Patio with Outdoor Kitchen and Dining Set
A covered tile patio is a great way to make your small patio look bigger. This will make it appear to have more space than you do. Add an outdoor kitchen and dining set to your covered tile patio. This will allow you to entertain guests on your patio without worrying about the weather.
12. Rustic Pallet DIY Furniture on a Small Covered Patio
If you’re looking for small outdoor patio ideas that won’t cost a fortune, why not make some rustic pallet furniture? This is the perfect project for those handy with a few tools, and it’s a great way to add some extra seating or storage to your outdoor space.
You’ll need basic woodworking skills and a few tools to get started. You can find pallets for free at many hardware stores or online, and they’re easy to disassemble and work with. Once you have your materials, sand down the pallets, stain or paint them to your desired finish, and assemble them into chairs, benches, or other pieces.
13. Nordic Inspired Pallet Furniture with Rusty Firepit
Patio created this beautiful, small patio design with Nordic-inspired pallet furniture. The centerpiece of this patio is the stunning rusty firepit that makes it perfect for chilly evenings. This design also features a small dining area and a cozy seating area. This is the perfect patio for a small space or backyard makeover.
14. Small Front Patio with Swing Bed
If you have a small front patio, you can still make it inviting and comfortable by adding a swing bed. This will allow you to relax and enjoy the outdoors without too much space. You can also add some potted plants to create a more inviting space.
15. Adirondack Swing on Small Pergola
If you have a small backyard or patio, you can still enjoy the outdoors by adding a swing. This Adirondack swing is perfect for a small space. The swing seats two people so that you can enjoy the outdoors with a friend or family member.
Consider adding a pergola or a retractable awning to provide shade and protection from the elements. Another option is to install a roof over the patio, allowing you to use the space year-round. Don’t forget to decorate with cozy furniture and vibrant plants to create a welcoming outdoor oasis.
16. Small Patio with Furniture Stained Concrete
If you’re looking for small patio ideas on a budget, one of the best things you can do is opt for stained concrete. Stained concrete is affordable and can give your patio a unique look. You can also add accents to the concrete by using stencils or stamps.
17. Small Townhouse Patio with Dining Area
You can still make the most of your outdoor space with a small patio if you have a small townhouse or condo. This one has a dining area and plenty of seating to invite friends for dinner or drinks. There’s room for a potted plant or two to add some greenery.
18. Small Apartment Patio Herb Garden
If you want to spruce up your small space, why not try growing some herbs? They will add beauty to your balcony or porch but also help keep the air in your home clean and fresh.
19. Small Apartment Balcony with Wood Wall and Plants
One way to make the most of a small patio is to choose multifunctional furniture. For example, a coffee table with a built-in cooler is perfect for entertaining. You can maximize a small patio with shelves or hanging plants with a few key pieces of furniture and some well-chosen decor.
20. Small Balcony Patio with Budget-Friendly Design
If you have a small balcony or patio, you may think your design options are limited. But with some creativity, you can transform your small outdoor space into a stylish and functional retreat, even on a budget.
21. Small Round Patio Staggered Wall Planks
While this is not an out-of-the-box kind of idea, it is excellent. The variety of materials used will add life to your bland concrete. You can add low walls that create a contained outdoor room. For instance, if you choose to make a decorated border, let’s say with veneer, it is more visually appealing.
You can design the walls using other materials as well. Furthermore, you can build a higher wall if the environment allows. For example, adding a wall fits the design if you live on a hilly side.
To top it off, you can add matching furniture, landscape designs, and flower pots to accentuate the look further.
22. Fenced Backyard Paver Patio Design with Gate Entry
You may think your design options are limited if you have a small backyard or patio. But with some creativity, you can transform even the smallest outdoor space into a stylish and functional retreat.
Adding a fence is one of the easiest ways to make a small patio more functional. A fence can provide privacy and protection from the elements and help define the space.
Consider using decorative panels or latticework if you’re looking for a more stylish way to add a fence. You can also use potted plants or trellises to create an attractive border.
23. Wood Patio Garden with Fishpond and Flowers
A small patio can be a great addition to any yard or home. It can provide a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors while adding value to your property. If you’re looking for small patio design ideas, keep a few things in mind.
Consider adding some personal touches to your patio with decorations or unique furniture. These small details can make a big difference in your space’s look and feel.
24. Small Patio with Wild Flower Garden
A small patio is a perfect solution if you’re tight on space. This intimate garden features a variety of colorful wildflowers, creating a beautiful and inviting space to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
25. Brick Moss Covered Patio with Rustic Wood Bench
This small patio design is perfect for a cozy backyard or space-saving porch. The brick flooring and mossy covering give it a rustic charm, while the built-in bench and simple furniture keep it feeling clean and modern. Add some potted plants or hanging greenery to bring the outdoors in.
26. Small Brick Patio with Landscaping and Blue Wicker Furniture
With a small backyard or patio, you can still make it feel like an oasis with thoughtful design choices. A small brick patio with well-placed landscaping and blue wicker furniture is perfect for relaxing on a summer day.
27. Colorful Front Entry Patio with Stained Wood Front Door
This small patio design is situated in the front of a home and features a stained wood front door. The space is decorated with colorful red-painted decking black metal railing against an earthy green siding.
28. Summer Inspired Small Front Patio with Bench
Get inspired by front door patio ideas. This summer-inspired small front patio features bench seating and bright, colorful pillows. Add string lights to create a warm, inviting space to enjoy summer evenings.
29. Small Front Patio with White Rocking Chairs
You can still make it inviting and cozy with a small front patio. All you need are some white rocking chairs and a few potted plants. Add a small table between the chairs to enjoy coffee or tea in the morning.
30. Coastal Inspired Front Entry with Potted Plants
A small patio can be the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning or a glass of wine in the evening. Check out this coastal-inspired front entry idea with potted plants to spruce up your small patio. Adding some greenery to your deck will create a relaxing oasis, and you can quickly move the potted plants around to find the perfect spot.
31. Farmhouse Inspired Small Front Patio Entrance
If you have a small space, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful and inviting patio. This farmhouse-inspired small front patio is the perfect example. The key to making this work is to keep it simple. A few potted plants, a small table and chairs, and some string lights are all you need to create a cozy and inviting space.
32. Small Front Entrance with Red Entry Door
If you have a small front entrance, make it with a bright red entry door. It will add curb appeal and make your space feel more inviting. Consider adding some greenery or flowers to make it pop.
33. Traditional Inspired Small Front Patio Entrance
If you have a small space for your patio, that doesn’t mean you can’t make it look great! This traditionally inspired patio entranceway with a bright red door is the perfect example. A small table and chairs on the patio provide a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
34. Rustic Old House Inspired Front Entrance Patio
One of the best ways is to design a rustic old house-inspired front entrance patio. You can do this by using old tables, washtubs, and barrels to line the path to the front door. You can also use plants and flowers native to your area to add color and life to the space.
35. Mexican-inspired Small Front Patio Entrance
If you have a small patio, courtyard, or balcony, there’s no reason why you can’t make it into a stylish and inviting space. You can transform even the tiniest outdoor area into a beautiful alfresco retreat with some creativity.
One of the easiest ways to add style to a small patio is with color. Painted walls, patterned tiles, and colorful flower pots help inject personality and life into the area.
Plants are also a great way to add interest to a small space. Potted plants, hanging baskets, and climbers can all be used to create a green oasis, even in the smallest of patios.
36. Small Paver Patio with Stone Outdoor Fireplace
You will be the envy of the neighborhood with backyard stone patio design ideas like these. The perfect backyard entertaining spot is a small paver patio with an outdoor stone fireplace. This design features a built-in bench and low-maintenance plantings.
37. Small Screened Brick Floor Patio
You can still have a beautiful patio if you have a small space. This screened brick floor patio is the perfect example. The brick flooring and white furniture give it a classic look that will never go out of style. This is ideal for relaxing with a coffee or a glass of wine.
38. Rustic Inspired Covered Patio with Outdoor Kitchen
Are you looking for small, covered patio ideas? This covered patio design is perfect if you’re lucky enough to have a backyard with some trees. The rustic wood beams and stone columns give it a cozy cabin feel, while the outdoor kitchen and dining area make it ideal for entertaining.
39. Small Coastal Covered Patio with Tile Floor
Your design options may be limited if you have a small patio. But with the correct elements, you can turn even the smallest outdoor space into a stylish and inviting retreat. A small coastal covered patio with tile flooring is one such example.
The furniture is also kept to a minimum, which helps open up the space further. And finally, adding an area rug completes the look and gives the space a real sense of life.
40. Small Screened Patio with Rustic Table and Chairs
If you have a small space for your patio, that doesn’t mean you can’t make it lovely and inviting. This small screened patio features a rustic table and chairs, perfect for enjoying coffee or a card game with family in the evening.
41. Small Wood Patio with Shed Roof and Bowl Firepit
Look for small patio ideas that make the most of a small space or backyard makeover; look no further than this beautiful wood patio. This small patio has a shed roof and a bowl fire pit, perfect for cozy gatherings. The best part? It can be built in just one weekend!
42. Small Covered Patio with Outdoor Carpet
You can still make it cozy and inviting with a small patio. One way to do this is by adding a covered patio. This will allow you to relax and enjoy the outdoors without worrying about the weather. Adding outdoor carpeting is another way to make your small patio more inviting. This will help create a warm and inviting space where you can enjoy spending time.
43. Small Patio with Painted Floor and Shed Roof
A small patio doesn’t have to be boring! This one has a painted floor and shed roof for added interest. If you’re working with a small space, you must get creative with your patio design.
Planning can go a long way, and choosing the right furniture and accessories to make the most of your small patio is essential.
44. Small Contemporary Patio with Stone Outdoor Grill Station
This small patio is perfect for entertaining! The built-in stone grill station is the space’s focal point, and the raised beds add a touch of greenery. The concrete pavers provide a durable and easy-to-maintain surface.
45. Small Pergola over Gravel Patio with Rectangular Fire Pit
You may think your design options are limited if you have a small patio or backyard. But with some creativity, you can transform your outdoor space into a beautiful and functional retreat.
46. Small Concrete Tile Patio with Pergola and Lighting
A small concrete tile patio is an excellent option if space is tight. You can easily add personality to your patio by choosing a unique tile pattern or color. And, if you want to get creative, you can even create your own tile design!
Consider adding a pergola and lighting to make your patio feel like an outdoor room. You can turn your small patio into a cozy oasis with a few well-placed lights.
47. Stamped Concrete Patio with Pergola and Summer Kitchen
A stamped concrete patio is a great way to add style and elegance to your small space. This design features a pergola and summer kitchen, making it the perfect spot to entertain guests or relax in the shade. The dark stain on the concrete gives it a rich look that is perfect for any backyard.
48. Small Patio with Metal Pergola Wicker Furniture
One of the best ways to make the most of a small patio is to choose furniture and accessories proportionate to the size of the space. A metal pergola is a great way to provide some shade, while wicker furniture and string lights create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
49. Small Cabana on Concrete Patio
Consider adding a cabana if you have a small concrete patio that you want to update. A small cabana can provide shade and privacy without too much space. You can find small cabanas at most home improvement stores or online.
50. Small Paver Patio with Custom Fireplace and Wood Pergola
Get inspired with small backyard paver ideas that include pergolas and fireplaces. This small paver patio features a custom fireplace and wood pergola. The pavers used for the patio are light, which helps brighten up the small space. The fireplace and pergola provide shade and privacy, making this an ideal spot for relaxing or entertaining.
51. Slate Patio at Townhouse with Lounge Chairs
Laying slate tiles is what I did to our concrete patio. I can confirm that it helped improve my concrete patio’s appearance. Concrete is well adapted as a tile base, which will fit seamlessly. In a sense, this is a complete makeover since laying slate tiles gives a new transformation.
First, examine the concrete base to ensure it is primed well for laying the tiles. Check out cracks and broken ends to repair them.
Remember that hiring a professional tiler to do the job is easier. They’ll ensure you get the best finishes. The process of laying tiles is more technical than, let’s say, building a high wooden death.
Plus, the final tiled patio measurements must not exceed the recommended rise.
52. Small Brick Patio with Garden on Townhouse
This brick patio was built as an addition to a townhouse. It is an excellent design for small patios because it uses the space well and includes a garden.
The garden borders a brick patio and has a variety of plants, including some climbing up the side of the house. This is a great way to add greenery to a small patio space.
53. Private Concrete Tile Townhouse Patio with Masonry Walls
Delivering an intimate outdoor experience, this small patio in a townhouse complex features concrete tiles and masonry walls. A small table and chairs create a perfect spot for enjoying a morning cup of coffee or tea. The potted plants add a splash of color and life to the space.
54. Small Townhouse Patio with Wood Privacy Wall
If you’re working with a small space, adding a privacy wall is one of the best ways to make the most of it. This small townhouse patio features a wood privacy wall that provides privacy and hanging baskets for plants.
55. Small Backyard Pool and Patio
Here are some small backyard pool and patio design ideas to help you create a functional and beautiful space.
Consider the shape of your patio. If you have a square or rectangular patio, you may want to consider a more traditional pool design. If you have a circular or kidney-shaped patio, you may want to consider a more free-form pool design.
56. Small Paver Patio with Inground Swimming Pool
One of the easiest ways to add style to your small patio is with pavers. Pavers come in various colors, shapes, and sizes to create a unique look for your patio. A small pool is a great way to cool off in the summer and can be used for entertaining guests. If you don’t have the space for a pool, consider adding a small fountain or water feature to this paver patio pool deck.
57. Stain Your Concrete Patio
This is the most common way of bringing an old concrete patio to life. Staining gives your old concrete patio a tile appearance. The process is pretty simple; you may use tapes to create grout lines all over the patio and then stain the entire surface.
Once you remove the tapes, they will leave your patio looking like tiles. The best thing is to contact a professional to ensure the finish is pristine and in order. However, you can make it an enjoyable DIY if you are confident enough.
Add a sealant to avoid degrading the paving because staining weakens the patio surface. Generally, staining chirps into the surface and alters the color and texture.
As a requirement, you need to clean the patio surface before starting the staining process.
58. Small Concrete Patio with Creative Painting
Painting is easy, but you can get a total concrete makeover if you get creative—painting ideas, including drawing patterns or playing around with gradients. If you engage a professional, they can do wonders with paint.
First, you need to power wash your concrete before painting. For creative patterns, you can get a designer to do stencils. Or you can work with gradients or shades. For example, you can create a design in two shades of grey.
Other cool ideas include painting diamonds or even circular patterns. Also, you may get creative by using contrasting colors.
59. Small Patio with Colorful Painted Pavers
If you have a small patio, you might think you can’t do much with it. But with some creativity, you can turn your small patio into a stylish and functional space.
One way to make your small patio stand out is to add color. You can paint the pavers or use colorful outdoor furniture and accessories.
60. Wood Decking Floor Over Concrete Patio
While laying a decking floor is not the cheapest method out there, it improves the appearance of your concrete patio. Most people are surprised when they learn that laying a decking floor on concrete is possible.
A decking floor helps to warm up your patio in an exciting way. You can do it yourself or hire a professional company when laying decking floors. For fine finishes, you can add fascia boards of contrasting colors on the side of the decking floor.
The decking floor adds a beautiful appeal because of the overall change in appearance while at the same time remaining unique. Laying on a decking floor is a fantastic way of creating an inviting, comforting, and cozy outdoor environment.
61. Small Concrete Patio with DIY Cinder Block Bench
If you’re looking for small patio ideas, check out this one. It features a small concrete patio with a DIY cinder block bench. The bench provides seating and storage, and the bright colors add a fun pop of color to the space. The cinder block bench is easy to build and can be completed in a few hours.
62. Small Paver Patio with Metal Firepit
If you’re working with a small space, you can still significantly impact your patio design. This small paver patio features a metal fire pit as the focal point, surrounded by gravel and landscaping stones. Using dark pavers helps anchor the space and give it a more polished look.
63. Small Patio Deck with Stone Fireplace
If you have a small patio or deck, you might think your design options are limited. But with some creativity, you can turn even the smallest outdoor space into a stylish and functional retreat.
One of the best ways to use a small patio is to create a multi-purpose space. For example, you can have a seating area for relaxing and entertaining around a stone fireplace and a cooking area for grilling.
64. Small Stamped Concrete Patio and Border with Firepit
One great way to make the most of a small patio is to use stamped concrete for the flooring. Stamped concrete can give your patio the look of stone or brick pavers at a fraction of the cost. It’s easy to maintain and can withstand heavy foot traffic.
65. Small Backyard Concrete Patio with Firepit and Paver Walkway
If you have a small backyard, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a stylish and functional patio. This backyard has a concrete patio, paver walkway, and gas firepit. This is an excellent example of making the most of a small backyard space.
66. Small Front Entrance Patio with Uplighting
If you have a small front entrance patio, uplighting can help to make it look more inviting and add some extra curb appeal. Uplighting can also be used to highlight features like potted plants or sculptures.
67. Small Deck Patio with String Lighting Backdrop
A small deck or patio can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors without much maintenance. String lights are a great way to add ambiance and make the space more inviting.
68. Small Concrete Tile Patio with String Lights
When it comes to small patio ideas, sometimes less is more. This small concrete tile patio features simple, clean lines and furniture. The string lights add a touch of whimsy and romance. Perfect for entertaining or relaxing outdoors.
69. Small Patio with Seating Area and Overhead Net Lighting
Creating a seating area is one way to make the most of a small patio. A small table and chairs are all you need to create a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. You can also add a small bench or loveseat to your seating area if you have the space.
Another way to maximize a small patio is to add overhead net lighting. This type of lighting is perfect for small spaces because it doesn’t take up any floor space.
70. Small Covered Patio with Seating and Hanging Lights
This small patio design is perfect for a cozy backyard or outdoor space. The covered patio keeps the area shaded and protected from the elements, while the hanging lights add a touch of ambiance. The seating area is inviting and comfortable, making it the perfect place to relax with friends or family.
Other Small Patio Space Ideas
71. Add an Outdoor Rug
Now, here is an inexpensive way to liven up your concrete patio. Some makeovers can cost an arm and leg, but rugs are affordable compared to other methods. You can add a large area rug, loveseat, pillows, and cushions with contrasting colors.
Rugs and pillows look great with some outdoor furniture. You can add a coffee table while the pillows and cushions sit comfortably on the rugs. This combo is both stylish and adds an inexpensive aesthetic appeal.
72. Build a Structure Over It
There are two ideas you can try out to get mind-boggling results. One idea is to build a gazebo, while the other is to add a pergola. The gazebo is great for outdoor relaxation and comfort.
You need to add furniture with these two designs because this awesomeness needs it. If you add a pergola, the sunlight hits different on the surface. You get to enjoy the coziness they offer.
Moreover, the pergola or any overhead structure helps to enclose the space. Gazebos and pergolas make the outdoors feel more private, thus comforting. All you have to do is check your patio and see which overhead structure is best suited.
An overhead trellis will play around with natural sunlight, creating beautiful patterns, and you can add just about anything, such as speakers, vines, or even ceiling fans.
A wooden gazebo will work wonders! Just like a pergola, a wooden gazebo doesn’t come cheap. They help concentrate the appeal on a single point over your concrete patio. You can place matching furniture in the middle and trellis frames on the sides to add to the highlights.
There are a dozen ideas on the gazebo painting you can try out. Similarly, you can select different gazebo designs.
73. Fake Stone Appearance
You may have seen the fake stone look somewhere, even if you do not know how to do it. How was it? Did you like it? If so, you can use it to make your concrete patio look better. One of the ways you can achieve this look is by using a patterned rubber roller.
On the other hand, you can hire a company to do that. The patterned rubber roller comes in stone, bricks, or graphic patterns. However, if you wish to purchase one, the cheapest is $900.
A roller will help craft stamped walkways and a popping patio. Alternatively, in the place of rubber patterned rollers, you may use concrete stamping. It contains an embossed pattern that you can apply on wet concrete. You place the mat on the wet concrete and then apply pressure. Then, repeat the process to create the fake stone look.
74. Change The Concrete Patio Edges
Some concrete patios have precast concrete pavers. In most cases, the concrete slabs or pavers come square. To improve the appearance and landscape design, you can make yours curvy.
If your concrete slabs are in good shape without major blemishes, cut using a circular saw to redesign the edges. The idea is to reshape the slabs by removing portions in the borders. Then, you may add landscaping designs, such as flowering or grass around the new edges.
This will make the design feel new, improving your dull concrete patio. In addition, you may tweak the appearance by adding furniture if you have it already. After redesigning, you can even have a party on the patio.
75. Add Concrete Pavers
You can get varied designed pavers with different colors, shapes, textures, and sizes. The good thing about pavers is that they add depth to your concrete design. The most iconic pavers are the curved ones. You can add the curves using pavers rather than remain with a typical square slab.
Butt pavers together to create a continuous surface and avoid plant overgrowing. Otherwise, you can add gravel or pebbles between them if you leave spaces between them. With distances between them, it means you’ll buy fewer pavers.
The other option is to use clay pavers, which are bricks in the real sense. You can make a fire brick using the extra bricks. In comparison with natural stones, clay pavers are less expensive.
How to Improve an Old Concrete Patio
Unlike the new concrete patio, older ones have limitations, where you can play around with different designs. However, there are several designs you can implement on a more aged concrete patio to make it look better, including outdoor dining setups, creative use of outdoor tables, green thumb-inspired gardens, decorative throw pillows, and outdoor cushions tailored to your style.
Here are some of the creative ideas you can try out.
Creative Concrete Patio Ideas
Modern designs call for upgrades or, instead, creative designs for your home. Nevertheless, your home design could borrow from Gothic, Roman, or early 20th-century designs. Wherever you are, you can get inspiration to brighten your concrete patio, whether it is a petite or spacious outdoor living space.
Utilize outdoor pillows for comfort, incorporate lush plants for a touch of nature, create privacy with strategic placements, and play with various colors to enhance your tight spaces. Consider French doors for a seamless indoor-outdoor transition and make the most of your square footage, transforming your outdoor living area into a cozy and inviting retreat.
The Seamless Transition
Your concrete patio rhymes perfectly with your house flooring design with this type of design. So, there is no break between the two flooring spaces. This type of design is from the 20th century when you barely notice that you’ve moved indoors to the outdoors.
Because of its appeal, this design always feels current. You can easily move from the house into the patio with a beautiful French or sliding door. Both spaces are on the same level and sometimes use similar materials.
Moreover, they share colors or closely related colors that you do not know when moving from one to another. Ideally, you can try this design with a one-story home with a wide-open spacious backyard.
Dress Up The Concrete Patio
There is no shortage of dressing ideas! One key factor in dressing up your concrete patio is the ambiance. With numerous ideas on how to dress up, you can add the missing spark to your concrete patio, whether it’s a spacious outdoor patio or a cramped concrete slab patio.
Consider a wooden table or bistro table for a charming touch, complemented by black tables and chairs for a sleek, modern look. Enhance comfort with an egg chair, and optimize ground space for a well-designed outdoor retreat.
Play around with the following elements to dress up your concrete patio:
- Play around with lighting to add romance and comfort
- Fire to add mood and the right atmosphere
- Screens to add privacy in the outdoors
- Flora and fauna for the pleasant aromas and feeling
Get more inspirational ideas on how to dress up your patio from the internet. For instance, you’ll see some of the best ways to play around with various lighting, including candles, chandeliers, etc.
Refinish The Surface
Concrete experts can refinish your patio through scoring and paving. And just like staining, these types of concrete cement work well on cured concrete.
- You do scoring by cutting about a quarter into the concrete. In the process, the cuttings will leave patterns that add to the visuals of the entire patio. The most common designs are diamonds, repetitive lines, and grids.
- Paving veneers: you can add pavers over an old concrete patio for beautification. You must check that the paving height is not dangerous while walking or in the drainage. The concrete set the foundation for the pavers. If done incorrectly, some imbalance might affect walkways or stairways.
Remember to select a sealant or stain that creates a nonslip flooring for safety purposes. Avoid indoor concrete finishes because they may not augur well with outdoor landscapes. Typically, they become slippery when it rains.
Play Around With Natural Light
Shades are excellent, especially in the summer. Usually, if you get creative with your design, you can have perfect lighting hitting your concrete patio. Depending on the surroundings, you can be amazed by the dappled shades.
The idea is to play around with natural or downcast outdoor lighting to ensure beautiful shades drop on your patio. Add shades that will blind the natural or artificial lighting to make it more appealing.
If your patio feels gloomy and dark, you can brighten it by adding natural lighting during the day or low-glow lights at night.
What Can I Cover My Concrete Patio With?
So far, we’ve seen several ways you can improve your concrete patio appearance—some of the ideas fit in with this topic. For instance, staining is one way you can cover a concrete patio.
Here is a highlight of some materials you may use to cover a concrete patio.
- Painting a solid color or pattern is a great way to cover a patio
- You can also use a rug to cover the patio
- Again, staining is an excellent way to change the appearance of a dull concrete patio
- Paving ideas make an excellent concrete patio cover
- Laying tiles
- Lack decking floor
You can try some of these ideas as fun DIY or hire a professional.
Small Patio Ideas FAQs
How do you make a small patio look nice?
To create a cozy small patio, use compact furniture. Add greenery with pots and vertical gardens. Use creative lighting and a cohesive color palette. Define space with rugs and deck tiles. Ensure privacy with screens and curtains. Enhance decor with wall art and cushions. Utilize vertical space with shelves and hanging planters. Incorporate mirrors for a sense of space. Keep it clutter-free for an inviting atmosphere.
Is a 10×10 patio too small?
A 10×10 patio, though small, can be cozy and functional. Advantages include intimacy, low maintenance, affordability, and personalization. Challenges involve limited space and balancing aesthetics with functionality.
How do you make a cute patio on a budget?
Creating a budget-friendly patio involves DIY decor, thrift finds, and smart choices. Craft your items, upcycle furniture, and use affordable flooring like outdoor rugs. Thrift stores offer budget options for furniture, while greenery can come from potted plants or homegrown herbs.
What is the easiest small patio?
To make a small patio, use gravel or deck tiles for the floor. Use foldable, multi-functional furniture. Add umbrellas or shade sails for shade. Use self-watering containers for potted plants. Illuminate with string lights and solar lanterns, and add an outdoor rug and pre-made decor.
Final Thoughts
There is no shortage of ideas to make a concrete patio look better. We have included 14 excellent ideas you can try out at home. Some of these ideas are inexpensive, while others will require the help of professionals to execute flawlessly.
One more straightforward way of changing the appearance of your concrete is by covering it with a rug. It is easy to execute even without extra help. You have to add some cushions and play around with the colors.
Painting is also easy, especially if you are good at it. Make the painting better by doing various patterns using stencils. Of course, you must be excellent at it to achieve the best results.
Selecting a cover-up or makeover solution that suits your overall design is essential. Even if the cost implications are a consideration, pick a solution to add to your home design. The bottom line is that your concrete patio shouldn’t be boring; spice it up with any of these ideas.
Pick one and try executing it, or hire a company for you.
