With the right furniture and accessories, even the smallest patio can become an inviting, private escape.

Try these ideas to transform your underused patio into a secluded oasis for lounging and entertaining.

It doesn’t matter if you have a small patio or a big one, you can still change the look and feel of it by doing adding some simple things.  Take this picture for example, it is not a huge patio but the way it is decorated makes it look so cheery.  I love the fun pillows and outdoor accessories she has used to brighten up the space.  Doesn’t it look more inviting than if it was just a couple chairs sitting there?  Check out her before and after and you will see what I mean.

The Magic Brush

Refresh Restyle

Our Crafty Mom

When decorating your patio, try to make it all cohesive by picking coordinating colors or a theme, like nautical for example.  Treat it the same way you would decorate a room in your house.  You are not going to throw a bunch of mismatched things together in your house so why do it on your patio?  Here is a great example of coordinating colors.  All the accessories go wonderful together and this looks fabulous!

Refresh Restyle

H2O Bungalow

The walls are not the only things to decorate, you could also add sconces or other decorative items to your pillars.  Check out these cute diy teacup sconce planters.  Aren’t they adorable?

Intelligent Domestications

Cottage In The Oaks

Here is another great tip, arrange your furniture in a setting conducive to having a conversation just like you would in a room in your house.  Add a coffee table in the middle to make it easier to set a drink on or to put your feet up and relax.   This is a perfect example of that.  I LOVE this outdoor setting.  It has cozy written all over it with the way it is set up, and the addition of all the pillows and even a blanket.  Doesn’t look like it is another room in her house?

Design, Dining & Diapers

Speaking of that coffee table, add a tray with a nice vignette to decorate with.  Check out this tutorial to make your own DIY farmhouse tray.  If you need help on how to make a vignette, check out this post.  It is about Easter Vignettes but you can apply to same ideas to an outdoor vignette as well.

Virginia Sweet Pea

If you have the room, add a table.  Here is a great DIY table made with pallet boards!  Talk about cool and cost effective!  A table is a nice addition to the patio when hosting parties or when you want to have dinner outdoors.  We use ours all the time in the summer!

Kleinworth & Co.

Simple Nature Decor

If you don’t have room for a table you can always use an outdoor serving cart.  This is a great way to be able to bring your dishes and food out the patio to make it a usable space for dining as well.

Cherished Bliss

Lastly adding some string lights and candles really makes this patio seem so festive and welcoming.  How beautiful does this patio look?  This patio is a perfect example of all the elements I have been talking about.

Table and Hearth

Hopefully you got some great ideas on how to make your patio more homey.  It is a nice way to add more livable space to your home and it will make being in the outdoors even more enjoyable!

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How to Decorate a Small Patio

Don’t let a patio that’s small, noisy or lacking in privacy stop you from spending time outdoors. With our small patio decorating ideas, you can turn even the tiniest space into an inviting retreat for relaxing or entertaining. Start with furniture — rather than buying a bulky matching set, shop for individual pieces that’ll better fit your space and give it an eclectic, boho feel. Curtains and lush plants are perfect for adding privacy to a patio. Finally, bring in some budget-friendly outdoor lighting to make your space usable any time of day. Read on for more small patio ideas and easy outdoor DIY projects.

Don’t worry if embarking on a major renovation isn’t a priority for you in the near future. You can still craft a stylish and comfortable space without breaking the bank, and your patio is a great place to start. From arranging vertical gardens to choosing the right furniture and lighting, a well-decorated patio can make all the difference.

Get ready to enjoy the warm weather ahead by browsing these 50 creative patio and porch decor ideas. You’re bound to land on some clever design pointers that are worth incorporating into your outdoor retreat.

Experiment with Checkered Flooring

If you’ve had enough of your drab patio flooring, bring your space to life with tiles in a checkered pattern that complements your furnishings.

MIKE GARTEN

Display Plants on a Fence

Looking for a way to elevate a basic wooden fence? Mix and match your favorite potted plants to give it an eye-catching look.

QUENTIN BACON

Amp Up Accessories

Simple yet stylish accessories, like a woven tray for serving cocktails and easy desserts, is a must-have for an inviting patio.

KATARZYNABIALASIEWICZ//GETTY IMAGES

Swing Chair

Any patio can benefit from a playful piece of furniture, like a swing chair crafted of materials such as rattan or wicker.

GOOD HOUSEKEEPING

Anchor Seating with a Petite Table

Curious about the easiest way to bring charm to a patio setup with woven chairs? Place a low-profile table, topped with a colorful floral arrangement, right in between them.

BONNONTAWAT//GETTY IMAGES

Incorporate a Foundation

Balance a yard full of greenery — and add a sophisticated flair to your space — with a tall garden fountain.

Place a Rug Under Your Dining Table

TIMABRAMOWITZ//GETTY IMAGES

Rugs never fail to make a design scheme feel more cozy. Bring a dose of comfort to your patio setup by placing a graphic rug under your dining table set. Your guests are guaranteed to be impressed.

TIMABRAMOWITZ//GETTY IMAGES

Don’t Overlook Brick Flooring

Brick flooring isn’t just a long-lasting option for your patio — it looks great, too.

THE GOOD BRIGADE//GETTY IMAGES

Weave in a Hammock

There’s nothing quite like enjoying the warm weather in a hammock, which is perfect for reading or taking a quick nap.

CORBIS/BEATEWORKS/© JOE SCHMELZER

Try an Oversized Ottoman

A large ottoman isn’t just great for serving drinks—it can also function as extra seating.

GAP PHOTOS/MA

The More Greenery, the Better

Breathe life into your patio with potted plants, hanging planters, and trailing vines.

CHRISTOPHER BAKER

Incorporate Preppy Touches

Embrace your preppy side by opting for gingham cushions to brighten up your space.

JOHNER IMAGES//GETTY IMAGES

Hang Paper Lanterns

Enjoy an evening outdoors by illuminating your patio with paper lanterns. Layer them with candlelight to make your outdoor oasis really shine.

LISA ROMEREIN/OTTO

Put Up a Shelf

Who said shelves can’t be incorporated into outdoor spaces? Consider one to showcase your styling skills or keep entertaining essentials close by.

KARYN MILLET

Use a Patterned Stool

A graphic stool can be used to rest drinks or double as extra seating in a pinch.

Purchase an All-Weather Patio Set

Durable furniture (think wicker) will carry you through season after season. Give it a fresh look with graphic cushions and pillows.

VICTORIA PEARSON//GETTY IMAGES

Add a Flower Box to the Fence

If you’ve had enough of your drab fence, turn it into a conversation starter with a simple flower box.

MICHAEL PARTENIO

Experiment with a Hanging Candle Holder

If you’re dining al fresco, make your table arrangement more inviting by dressing up a hanging candle holder with faux greenery.

DAVID TSAY

Snag a Foldable Umbrella

Celebrate the arrival of warm weather with a foldable umbrella that will instantly make your space feel chicer.