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Outdoor Living: Small Patio Roundup

It is FINALLY warming up here in Boston, and I’ve been antsy to get my hands in the dirt outside, get to work in my aspiring garden, and create a little slice of heaven in our backyard. While I’ve got a nice, sizable backyard, a few DMs were sliding in requesting a round-up of ideas for small patios — and I’m here to deliver!

Having bopped around from city to city for the first 10 years of our marriage, I’m very familiar with that tiny little patio that urban apartment dwellers consider themselves lucky to have, as I have had a few myself and always loved them! There is something about a small space that I actually adore for the instant coziness it provides. Who doesn’t love settling up in a nook with a good book, a cup of hot coffee, or a glass of cool wine?

My personal essentials for a small patio usually includes a bistro table and pair of chairs, some planters with herbs and greenery, and cafe lights. The right decor items can make a big difference: I’m loving these personal tabletop fires that evoke the feeling of having a fire pit or fireplace; a well placed throw pillow can elevate a simple $30 patio chair (these are actually in my cart right now); a lovely watering can and doormat can add that perfect bit of color and function.

I’ve rounded up some of my favorite finds (and with Memorial Day this weekend, keep your eye out on good sales) – you can click on any item on the moodboard above or peruse a grander selection below!

Some of my favorite sources?

Charish and Etsy for unique vintage pieces

Target, World Market, AllModern, Wayfair for more affordable options

Perigold, Skagerak, 1st Dibs, Janus et Cie, DWR for more aspirational investment pieces. My take on aspirational shopping is that it’s totally fine if you can’t afford it: use it as inspiration for details to look for in vintage, second-hand, and budget finds! If you can afford it – must be nice! I still find high-low mixed sourcing makes for the most interesting spaces.