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Forget the tiny house. This summer, it’s all about the tiny patio. With more and more of us flocking to urban enclaves, apartment pickings are getting slimmer—literally!—and outdoor areas often feel like an afterthought.
But that doesn’t mean your decor choices are dire. While compact furniture options are certainly more limited, there’s a lot you can do with a small side table, corner chair, or cozy pouf. Even if you won’t be throwing the ultimate porch party anytime soon, you can still get plenty of use out of your slice of paradise. Here are 11 chic furniture finds to help you make the most of your pint-size outdoor space.
If You’re Constricted by Tight Right Angles…
A microscopic backyard calls for miniature seating. This pocket-size lounge chair is just as comfy as a full-size sofa but can squeeze into quirky corners and awkward nooks without any finagling.
If You Want to Go from the Balcony to the Beach…
Folding chairs aren’t just for the beach anymore. You’ll want to whip out this retro lawn chair on a cloudless day when the sun is just right. When you’re not catching rays, simply prop it up against a wall or in a closet for safe keeping.
If Afternoon Picnics Are Your Party of Choice…
Balcony, backyard—you name it—this dining set is ready for this year’s Fourth of July barbecue. Although you may have to narrow the guest list way down (it’s the perfect size for four people), the bench seating promises not to get in the way once the celebration begins.
If You Never Check the Forecast…
Rigid plastics aren’t the only materials that are weatherproof. This knit pouf was designed to withstand any unexpected showers. Let it dry, and then plop down with a fresh bag of popcorn for an alfresco movie night.
If You Need to Set Down Your Rosé…
Bulky, square side tables can only fit in so many places. This slender pick, on the other hand, slides right up next to a sofa, lounge chair, bar cart, or hammock with ease. Top it with a chilled pitcher of lemonade or a new potted plant. The tray includes a special drain system, which keeps it from filling up with rainwater after a storm.
If You’d Rather Be Vacationing in Morocco…
Stretched out or scrunched up, hammocks fit in most exterior spots. Even on a cozy balcony, it’s a lot easier to imagine yourself on a permanent vacation when you’re lying on one of these babies. With its laid-back shape and vibrant splashes of pink, this lounge-worthy destination is sure to stun when topped with a few Peruvian blankets.
If You Start Every Morning With a Sunrise…
No material screams summertime quite like rattan. A tiny spot to drop your sunnies or rest your coffee mug, this boho-approved coffee table has all the surface space you’d ever need outdoors. Plus, this super-lightweight find won’t be such a hassle to drag indoors come fall.
If You Want to Kick Your Feet Up…
Know that if it’s chic and it folds, it is worthy of your balcony. Much like rattan, teak will extend a warm and sunny feeling to an outdoor space—even when the weather doesn’t match. Available in an assortment of patterns (though, we’re big fans of this classic stripe), this versatile essential will come in handy when you want to take a seat or kick up your feet.
If You’re the Entertainer of the Group…
Want a patio bar but fear you don’t have the room? Craft a permanent booze station by hanging this clever table over the side of the railing. Made from solid acacia, this storage-friendly find is not only a smart spot to store spare bottles, but it’s also super durable.
If You Need to Make Room for Two…
Decorating a small balcony is like the Olympics—you’ve got to pull out all the stops if you want to get recognized. This is the time to try a bold palette that will make your neighbors stop and take notice, no matter how high up in the clouds you are. With that in mind, don’t be afraid to embrace your inner showstopper. This electric yellow seat will do just that. Bonus? While it’s surely small enough to squeeze into a tiny nook, it’s also large enough to hold two people if need be.
If Your Snoozy Dining Table Could Use a Refresh…
Designed to be both aesthetically and physically balanced, Hay’s Élémentaire chair—available in a rich array of hues, from smoky green to blue-gray—perfectly captures the essence of Danish simplicity. Given its uncomplicated ways and incredibly robust design, this is one weather-friendly pick you’ll want hanging out on your patio for a while.
This story was originally published on July 22, 2018. It has been updated with new information.
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