20 Small Backyard Ideas That'll Inspire You to Entertain Outdoors This Summer

No matter the size of your patio, deck, or backyard, there are easy ways to expand your home's outdoor footprint. And since a total overhaul may not be feasible for you, it's best to work with what you already have to create the perfect outdoor oasis, whether it's for everyday activities, summer entertaining, or a mix of both. Browse through these small backyard ideas to find simple ways to upgrade your space. There's a variety of landscaping designs, decor inspiration, and gardening fixes that are easy enough to tackle on your own (hello DIYs!) while sticking to your budget, no matter how small.

With these vertical planters, multi-functional work benches, and bar carts, your small-but-mighty outdoor space will pack a big punch all summer (well, year) long. And if you do it right, then many of these designs and decorating ideas will actually make your tiny space look — and feel — bigger than it really is, which is the ultimate win-win.

Boost your backyard's appeal by filling ceramic planters with flowers, succulents, and other plants. And if you want the satisfaction of watching something grow from seed to plant, consider herbs and small vegetables like broccoli and cabbage.

RELATED: What You Need to Know About Container Gardening

Bring a wooden work bench outside, give it a coat of fresh paint, and then use it for, well, everything. When you're entertaining, turn it into a bar cart or serving station. Otherwise, let it become your catch-all spot for gardening tools, empty pots, and watering cans.

Make your small space feel even cozier by stringing lights from one side of the yard to the other. That way, you won't have to use up coveted floor space with standing lamps.

RELATED: How to Decorate Your Small Patio

Mount a folding shelf to the exterior of your house, and use it to hold party snacks, drinks, or even decorative accents.

Since lawn furniture may be too bulky to suit the size of your space, go for folding chairs that can be stored easily when they're not in use. For a warm and inviting vibe, throw an outdoor rug and floor pillows on the surrounding grass.

RELATED: The Best Outdoor Furniture You Can Buy

If your deck is low to the ground, extend its reach by laying stone patio tiles along the existing deck. It'll create a seamless flow from one area of your space to the next, which is perfect for summer parties and gatherings.

Turn any ol' ledge into an ultra-cozy seating nook. Outfit the wide railing or garden wall with colorful pillows and potted plants, and then pull up a small side table.

When done right, utility carts become the ultimate drink station. Deck out the shelves with coolers, glasses, utensils, and pitchers full of party punch (or another drink of your choice).

RELATED: The Best Outdoor Bar Carts

Think of floating plants as a gallery wall for the outdoors. Attach flat-backed planters to the slats using zip ties or small hooks, and then fill 'em with an array of colorful plants.

Take a garden stool — bird baths work too! — and fill it with frozen water balloons for a party-ready cooler. They'll melt slower than traditional ice cubes, so guests won't have to dunk their hands in water to refuel.

Stack curved paving stones in a circle to create a statement-worthy fire pit. To make the space more inviting, scatter some metal chairs and potted plants nearby (but not too close to the fire, of course).

Turn a wooden ladder into a vertical stand for potted flowers, veggies, and herbs. Just give it a fresh coat of paint before you put it out on display.

Get the tutorial »

Not only do circular tables give off a modern look, but they're also easier to walk around than traditional rectangle options. Try to mix and match the textures by pairing a concrete or stone table with wooden patio furniture.

Keep party guests out of the kitchen with this DIY serving station. Simply install a serving ledge under a window and dress the space with weather-resistant bar stools and a patterned awning.

Find an over-the-door shoe organizer that matches your aesthetic (linen works best!) and attach it to your fence for a space-saving herb garden. Stick a different kind of herb in each compartment, and then add labels to help you keep track of what's what.

Turn your backyard into a tropical oasis (well, kind of) by sticking patio furniture straight on the grass. Fill out the space with plush pillows, patterned blankets, and battery-operated lanterns.

Take upcycling to the next level: For a budget-friendly work bench, attach an old door or piece of wood to two waist-height metal pails or garbage cans. Place it near your garden, so you can keep your eye on your bounty as you work your magic.

Even if you don't have room for a full-size garden, this little beauty gives you a similar experience. Once you fill a ceramic planter with soil, dress it up with rocks, low-growing shrubs, flowers, and a mini birdhouse fit for a fairy.

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Let your geometric tiling or outdoor rug make a statement by hanging a swing chair from the ceiling or deck cover. Not to mention that this boho-inspired hanging chair is ideal for curling up with a summer read or sipping on a seasonal cocktail.

For a garden that doubles as decor, affix ceramic pots to a framed piece of cedar or pine wood. For extra impact, keep flowers in the same color theme, and sprinkle a few extras throughout the rest of your outdoor space.

Get the tutorial at Angela Marie Made »