Morgan Milzow & Ford, Realtors®
Emily Ford, Morgan Milzow & Ford, Realtors®Phone: (248) 722-4239
Email: [email protected]

Designing a small outdoor space: Ideas & tips to try

by Emily Ford 11/13/2024

patio chairs and table

Are you struggling to find small outdoor space ideas? Luckily, even the tiniest patio or porch can become an amazing outdoor living space with the right design and planning. Here are some great ways to make the most of a small outdoor space:

Create a small container garden

You can keep a surprising amount of live plants even in the smallest garden space. Some of the best ways to create tiny container gardens are with hanging planters attached to vertical spaces. You can also use a regular rectangular window box to arrange several small plants you can easily swap out when you wish.

Build a custom deck

Even if you have a smaller yard, you always have opportunities to upgrade it. Consider creating a custom deck that can be attached to the front of your property and is customizable to the size of your yard. Several potted plants, a fire pit and a minimalist chair make an inviting yet simple outdoor living space.

Add a fire pit table

Combining functionality is key to designing small spaces, and fire pit tables are a perfect example. Many of these tables have a removable tabletop you can set aside when you want to enjoy a cozy fire. Depending on the style, you’ll have room around the edges of the fire pit for food and drink. 

Try Bohemian patio furniture

Bohemian design style is a great source of inspiration for designing an outdoor living room in a small patio space. With Boho furniture and accessories, you’ll have an excellent blend of diverse materials and textures. 

Just remember to choose items for outdoor use like weather-resistant fabric, epoxy-wicker, corrosion resistant aluminum, or teak which will withstand extreme temperatures.

Small outdoor spaces might seem restrictive, but there are plenty of options for making them functional and aesthetically pleasing. Keep these ideas in mind the next time you want to redesign your small space outside.

About the Author
Author

Emily Ford

My experience dates back to 2002 when I obtained my degree in Economics from Kalamazoo College and then immediately went to work as a sales manager for a 72 unit, new home development in Clarkston. I am in my 22nd year of full time residential real estate sales and real estate is my number one passion!

· I earned the "Top Producer" award at Morgan Milzow & Ford Realtors from 2007-2023

· My career accomplishments to date include over 1,000 homes sold and in excess of $315M in closed transactions

· I've been voted an Hour Magazine All-Star 2013-2023, an honor only given to the top 5% of Metro Detroit Real Estate Agents

· I'm a lifelong Clarkston resident & service all of Oakland County, parts of Genesee, Livingston and Macomb Counties, and my area knowledge, professionalism and real estate expertise is unparalleled

· As a top-producing & seasoned Realtor I have a strong support staff that handles all facets of your transaction and thus creates a concierge-like real estate process that is as seamless and hands on as it can be, delivering the service you deserve! “Stress free, worry free” is our mission & mantra

· We offer an unmatched marketing plan with preferred positioning on all major Internet outlets and social media, the best in professional photography, staging, handyman services, top-notch negotiating skills, excellent communication & much more!

· In 2022 I was awarded the Clarkston Chamber of Commerce Independence Women of the Year award for excellence in business and for my community contributions. In 2019 I received the Clarkston Community Businessperson of the Year Award. I’m also proud to have served my community as the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce President in 2018 & 2019. I'm a past recipient of the NOCBOR (North Oakland County Board of Realtors) Distinguished Service Award, nominated by my peers

· I consistently contribute to other, local charitable causes that are close to my heart including Tree of Dreams, benefitting Neighbor for Neighbor, SCAMP and Clarkston Schools

· My resume also includes being an investment property owner, landlord, land developer and home flipper. With my experience and expertise plus my valuable connections I can also offer temporary housing to clients ensuring the most harmonious moving transition possible!