6 Ideas for Decorating Your Small Backyard Deck

Small spaces can be tough to work with no matter where in the house they are, but just because you have a small deck doesn’t mean it can’t look great. From landscaping and furniture to new doors and entertaining additions, keep reading for easy small deck ideas to upgrade it in ways that will have you spending more time outdoors enjoying the space you have.

1. Repaint/Re-stain the Deck

Chipped paint and tired-looking wood isn’t exactly welcoming. Luckily, it’s something that can be fixed and make a world of a difference for your outdoor space.

The paint you should use will depend on whether your deck is concrete or wood. Wood decking can also be stained to bring out its natural beauty.

Be sure to look out for soft spots or areas that are splintering, and if you live in a place that gets cold, don’t forget to winterize your deck. Once your deck looks its best, you’ll be ready to decorate it.

2. Spruce Up Your Landscaping

One of the easiest small deck ideas we love? Add clean, simple landscaping. This can give the illusion of a larger space while also making it easy to upkeep.

Consider potted plants with vibrant florals, laying down mulch for clean lines, and removing unsightly shrubs that only cause you headaches. There are even faux flowers that look realistic and require zero care!

And don’t forget to think vertically—with hanging pots, you can hang beautiful flowers or greenery without sacrificing space on the deck.  

3. Purchase Patio Furniture

Your small deck may not be able to fit multi-piece patio furniture sets with large sofas and coffee tables. If you’re pressed for square footage, two simple patio chairs with a side table between them will elevate your deck space. Consider a slightly larger side table if you want to enjoy alfresco dinners or entertaining.

You can go with something smaller if you are mainly hoping to read a book outside with a drink beside you. Especially pressed for space? There are beautiful folding chairs out there that can be put away when not in use.

4. Replace Your Patio Door

When you’re working with a small space, why not upgrade what you already have? Something as simple as replacing the patio door is one of the small deck ideas that can make a huge impact visually.

A new door will not only provide a new visage to the outdoors, but also instantly beautify your deck area without having purchased any new furniture or flooring. Great patio door options include sliding glass doors, French doors, or folding doors.

5. Install a Hot Tub

Turn your small patio deck into an oasis with a hot tub. They’re great for relaxing at the end of the day or for entertaining guests without the need for a full blown swimming pool. They come in many sizes, so even those most pressed for space can find one that works.

Another solution for small spaces is to purchase a portable hot tub, which is above ground. These are more affordable and can be taken with you to your next home. Portable hot tubs can also be installed off the deck to free up space while still providing entertainment value.

Plus, it’ll give your small deck a clear purpose: a place to store drinks and towels, and a home for a couple of chairs to relax in while you dry off afterwards.

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6. Add a Fire Pit

Especially if you live in a seasonal region, a fire pit is a homey addition to a small patio deck. They come in a variety of sizes, including portable fire pits that don’t take up much space. It can be moved out of the way when not in use. If you have a permanent fire pit installed, it can double as an outdoor coffee table.

No matter which of these small deck ideas you go with, you will have an updated, upgraded space for relaxing.