DesignRulz 23 January 2023

An outdoor sitting area is a designated space in the backyard or patio where you can comfortably sit and relax. This can include seating options such as chairs, sofas, benches, or even hammocks. It can also include other elements such as tables, fire pits, or even outdoor kitchens.There are several reasons why you might want to have an outdoor sitting area in your backyard or patio, even if you have a lot of space.Firstly, an outdoor sitting area can be a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature and the fresh air. Being outside can also be beneficial for mental and physical well-being, as it can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase exposure to vitamin D from sunlight.Secondly, an outdoor sitting area can be a great place for entertaining guests. Whether you’re having a casual BBQ, hosting a dinner party, or simply enjoying a glass of wine with friends, an outdoor sitting area can provide the perfect setting.Thirdly, an outdoor sitting area can be a great place for the whole family to relax and unwind. Whether you’re reading a book, playing a game, or simply enjoying the view, an outdoor sitting area can be a great way to spend time together.Lastly, an outdoor sitting area can be a great way to add value to your home. A well-designed outdoor sitting area can make your home more attractive and inviting, which can increase its curb appeal and potential resale value. Overall, having an outdoor sitting area can be a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature, entertain guests, spend time with family, and even increase the value of your home.

Some of the outdoor sitting area ideas include:

  1. A traditional patio set with a table and chairs
  2. A seating area around a fire pit
  3. A cozy nook with a bench and pillows
  4. A built-in seating area with a built-in bench or wall seating
  5. A shaded area with a pergola or umbrella
  6. A lounge area with outdoor sofas and a coffee table
  7. A dining area with an outdoor dining table and chairs

When creating an outdoor sitting area, it’s important to consider the size of your space and choose seating options that will fit comfortably. Additionally, you should also consider the overall style and aesthetic you want to create, and choose items that will complement that look.

Here are a few ideas for outdoor sitting areas:

  1. Create a cozy seating area around a fire pit, where you can gather with friends and family on cool evenings.
  2. Set up a small table and chairs on your patio or deck, for dining al fresco.
  3. Design a relaxing reading nook in a secluded corner of your garden.
  4. Install a hammock between two trees for a lazy afternoon nap.
  5. Create an outdoor lounge area with comfortable seating and a few potted plants for a peaceful retreat.
  6. Build a wooden bench or a stone bench along a garden path for a quiet spot to sit and enjoy the scenery.
  7. Set up a seating area on your balcony with a view of the city or nature.
  8. Create a seating area with outdoor furniture such as a sofas, chairs, and coffee table.

It’s also important to make sure that the seating area is comfortable and well-shaded, so you can enjoy it even on hot summer days.

Build a terraced garden outdoor sitting area

Here are a few ideas for outdoor sitting areas in a terraced garden:

  1. Use a series of steps to create different levels in the garden, and place a comfortable seating area on each level.
  2. Create a small seating area on a terrace overlooking the garden, with a table and chairs for dining or entertaining.
  3. Build a wooden deck on a terrace, and place a hot tub or a small pool on it for a relaxing spot to soak and unwind.
  4. Design a terraced seating area with built-in benches, which can be used for both seating and as retaining walls for the garden beds.
  5. Use a series of terraces to create a series of outdoor rooms, each with its own unique seating area.
  6. Create a terraced seating area with a pergola or gazebo for shade and privacy.
  7. Use a small terrace as a spot for a small water feature such as a fountain or a pond, with a seating area nearby for enjoying the sound of the water.
  8. Create a terraced seating area with a built-in fire pit, perfect for gathering with friends and family on cool evenings.

It’s also important to consider the view and the privacy in your terraced garden, and to arrange seating areas accordingly.


What can I do with a small space in my backyard?

Here are a few ideas for making the most of a small space in your backyard:

  1. Create a small patio or deck: This can be a great spot for outdoor dining and entertaining.
  2. Build a raised bed garden: You can use a small space for growing herbs, vegetables, or flowers.
  3. Add a small pond or water feature: This can add a sense of tranquility and relaxation to your backyard.
  4. Create a small outdoor seating area: A bench, a couple of chairs, or a small table and chairs can be a great spot to relax and enjoy your backyard.
  5. Build a small fire pit: A fire pit can be a great spot to gather with friends and family on cool evenings.
  6. Install a hammock: A hammock can be a great spot to relax and unwind in a small space.
  7. Create a small outdoor kitchen: You can include a small grill, a sink, and a mini fridge for outdoor cooking and dining.
  8. Add a small waterfall or fountain: This can add the sound of running water to your backyard, creating a serene and peaceful ambiance.
  9. Install a vertical garden: This is a great way to add greenery to a small space and also can be a great way to grow herbs and vegetables in small space.

Remember that the key to making the most of a small space is to keep it simple, and to focus on creating a few key elements that you’ll enjoy using most.


Clever Tricks to Make Your Small Backyard Live Large

Here are a few clever tricks to make your small backyard feel larger:

  1. Use mirrors: Mirrors can be used to reflect light and create the illusion of more space. You can install a large mirror on a fence or wall, or even use small, decorative mirrors around the backyard.
  2. Create different zones: Use different areas of the backyard for different activities, such as a seating area, a dining area, and a gardening area. This will create the illusion of more space by giving each area its own purpose.
  3. Use vertical space: Maximize the space in your small backyard by adding elements that reach upward, such as climbing plants, hanging planters, or a vertical garden.
  4. Keep it simple: Avoid overcrowding a small backyard with too many elements. Instead, choose a few key features that you really love and keep the rest of the space simple.
  5. Use lighting: Good lighting can make a small backyard feel more spacious. Use outdoor lighting to highlight specific areas or features, such as a water feature or a seating area.
  6. Play with levels: Create different levels in your small backyard, such as a raised patio or a raised garden bed, to add depth and interest to the space.
  7. Use natural elements: Incorporate natural elements such as rocks, wood, or water to create a sense of calm and tranquility in your backyard.
  8. Use Furniture cleverly: Use furniture that can serve multiple purposes, such as a bench that doubles as storage or a table that can be folded away when not in use.

Remember that the key to making a small backyard feel larger is to create the illusion of more space, rather than trying to cram too many elements into a small area.


8 Ways to cover an outdoor sitting area

Here are a few ways to cover an outdoor sitting area:

  1. Use a pergola: A pergola is an open-roofed structure that can provide partial shade and shelter from the sun. You can add climbing plants or curtains for more shade and privacy.
  2. Use a gazebo: A gazebo is a freestanding structure that can provide full shade and shelter from the sun and rain. You can add curtains or screens for more privacy.
  3. Use a patio umbrella: A patio umbrella can provide shade and shelter from the sun. You can choose from a variety of sizes and styles to fit your outdoor seating area.
  4. Use a retractable awning: A retractable awning can provide shade and shelter from the sun when you need it, and be easily retracted when you don’t.
  5. Use a shade sail: A shade sail is a fabric canopy that can be suspended from poles or posts to provide shade and shelter from the sun.
  6. Use a trellis: A trellis can provide partial shade and shelter from the sun. You can add climbing plants for more shade and privacy. Invest in a nice pergola kit like the ones sold at Hanso Home
  7. Use a canopy: A canopy can provide full shade and shelter from the sun and rain. You can choose from a variety of sizes and styles to fit your outdoor seating area.
  8. Use a screened in porch or room : A screened-in porch or room can provide full protection from sun, rain, and bugs while allowing fresh air to flow through the space.

It’s important to consider the weather conditions in your area, and choose a covering that will provide the right amount of shade and shelter for your outdoor seating area.

A tiny outdoor space may seem impossible to decorate

  1. A tiny outdoor space can be challenging to decorate, but there are still ways to make the most of it. Here are a few tips:
  2. Keep it simple: Avoid overcrowding a small outdoor space with too many elements. Instead, choose a few key features that you really love and keep the rest of the space simple.
  3. Use vertical space: Maximize the space in your small outdoor area by adding elements that reach upward, such as hanging planters or a vertical garden.
  4. Use furniture cleverly: Choose furniture that can serve multiple purposes, such as a bench that doubles as storage or a table that can be folded away when not in use.
  5. Use lighting: Good lighting can make a small outdoor space feel more spacious. Use outdoor lighting to highlight specific areas or features.
  6. Incorporate natural elements: Use natural elements such as rocks, wood, or water to create a sense of calm and tranquility in your small outdoor space.
  7. Create different zones: Use different areas of the small outdoor space for different activities, such as a seating area, a dining area, and a gardening area.
  8. Play with levels: Create different levels in your small outdoor space, such as a raised patio or a raised garden bed, to add depth and interest to the space.
  9. Use color: Add color to your small outdoor space with plants, flowers, or painted furniture.
  10. Make use of wall space: If you have a small backyard with a wall, you can use that as a backdrop for a seating area, by placing furniture against the wall, you can use the space more efficiently.

Remember that the key to decorating a small outdoor space is to be creative and think outside the box. With a little bit of planning and imagination, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space, regardless of its size.

What can I put on a small patio?

You can put a variety of things on a small patio, including:

  1. Outdoor furniture such as a small table and chairs, or a bistro set
  2. Potted plants and flowers to add greenery and color
  3. A small grill or outdoor cooking station
  4. Outdoor lighting such as string lights or lanterns
  5. A small water feature such as a fountain or bird bath
  6. Decorative items such as outdoor rugs, pillows, and artwork

When decorating a small patio, it’s important to consider the size and layout of the space, and choose items that will fit comfortably without making the area feel cramped. Additionally, you should also consider the overall style and aesthetic you want to create, and choose items that will complement that look.