17 ideas to decorate small terraces

It is common to think that having a small terrace actually reduces the functionality of this space, because if it is not well designed and used, it will invite you to spend less time on it.

If this is your case and you have a small terrace that overwhelms you or does not serve you, take the time to plan this useful and beautiful space. You will see how these tips will help you revive that unique corner of your home.

Determine the functions of your terrace well

There are terraces designed to spend relaxing hours reading, preparing lively meals or dinners outside or designing real natural oases, ideal for disconnecting from the daily hustle and bustle. These and other types of terraces can be enjoyed even if they are small.

But for this, it is very important to think very well about what function you want your terrace to have, because based on this decision you will have to choose the furniture, its distribution and the materials you will use. And it is not the same as designing a dining area to relax.

Always try to leave the center area empty

The key to designing and decorating small spaces is to keep the central area free of furniture and objects. Small terraces are no exception, so as much as possible everything should be distributed along the walls. This way there will always be space to roam and a greater sense of spaciousness will be created.

Adapt the furniture to the shape of the terrace

Another tip to follow if your terrace is small is to place only furniture that fits its size and shape. For example, if your terrace is long and you want to use it to prepare meals with your family and friends, place a long table.

It is obvious, but the right combination of shapes and structures is key so that nothing distracts from the rest, helping to create a more comfortable and harmonious space.

Make the most of corners

Likewise, corner furniture can work real miracles in spaces where nothing seems to fit. Taking advantage of corners, whether with a table, armchair, sofa or other object, is a maxim on small terraces.

For example, with a corner sofa you will have a few seats to share the time you spend on the terrace with your family and friends and at the same time you will make the best use of the space on your small terrace.

Choose multifunctional furniture

Versatile furniture that fulfills different functions can be the best solution to have everything at hand without taking up too much space on your terrace. A coffee table that also serves as a magazine or book storage, an armchair that can double as a table when needed, a chest that also serves as a support for drinks…

These are just a few of the most common examples, but the options are many and once again what you choose will depend on the use you want to give your terrace.

Use hidden storage areas

Clutter is never recommended, but much less in small spaces. To avoid this unwanted effect, place storage furniture on your terrace that allows you to hide objects out of sight. In this way, you can easily clean your terrace and it will always have a calmer appearance.

Therefore, do not ignore using tables or sofas with closed storage systems to become comfortable, practical and modest furniture.

Don't discount folding furniture

You may have used your small terrace to the maximum, but this is still not enough when you receive visitors. In these cases, folding furniture can save you from the rush, as it can be folded or hidden away when it is no longer needed.

When your favorite room is too small, a folding table or chairs can be the solution. There are even options that are fixed to the wall and are perfectly camouflaged when not needed.

Do not overload the terrace

Even so, always remember that a small terrace must breathe. Sometimes we tend to include more elements such as furniture, books, flower pots or blankets and other textiles.

When it comes to doing this, you have to evaluate if these objects are really useful and if they will not be excessive in that small space that makes up your terrace. Always keep in mind, if this is your case, the keys to minimalist decoration are: less is more.

Plants grow better vertically

If you are a nature lover and always like to be surrounded by plants, you would definitely want to do it on your terrace, even if it is small. If that is the case, it is better for you to choose to set up a modest but original vertical garden.

You can do this using supports and wooden trellises that you will then fill with your favorite plants. By the way, creeping plants are also an option. The result will be as beautiful and natural as if you were to place pots on the floor of your terrace, but it will take up much less space: just one of the walls of the room.

Use plants with different tones to create depth

When designing this vertical garden (or if you have a bit more space to place your pots), it’s best to choose a mix of plants of different tones and colours, and different heights. By putting these together, you’ll create a sense of depth that will help your deck appear a bit larger.

Achieve a visual continuity effect

Another trick to make your terrace not look so small is to make it part of the same visual set as your nearest interior room, such as the bedroom, living room or kitchen.

How to do it? For example, placing furniture of the same color, material or style as in the interior, or using the same type of textiles or upholstery. This will create a feeling of spaciousness and elongated space.

Create shadow areas

There is nothing more oppressive than a small space that is also hot. If you are lucky enough to get many hours of sun per day from your small terrace, you will need to consider that this sun will sometimes be neither comfortable nor necessary, especially during the hottest part of the year.

To ensure that the heat does not prevent you from enjoying your small terrace, a good option is to place an awning or pergola over it, which you can fold down when the sun goes down. You and your guests will appreciate having a shaded area on the hottest days.

Zen decoration, ideal for small spaces

If you want to go a step further and reach a higher level of peace and relaxation on your terrace, choose to decorate it according to the Zen decorative style. The keys are natural materials such as wood or bamboo and soft colors such as gray and white. Soft or candle lighting is also important to achieve this very relaxing aesthetic.

Provides a romantic and warm touch with wood.

What is also achieved by adding furniture or other wooden objects is to give the space a very positive romanticism and seclusion in the case of small spaces. Of course, do not forget that wood can be painted.

Although it is recommended that you do not lose that natural tone completely, a wooden piece of furniture can be given color by painting some of its elements. For example, go ahead and paint the table legs green or blue, or place colorful cushions on wooden chairs.

The possibilities are endless and can change over time or depending on the season of the year.

Furniture on the tables reduces the saturation of the space

Furniture made of boards, whether made of wood, PVC or metal, cleans the look and creates a sense of desaturation. Also, tables and chairs with narrower legs will help you enjoy more visual lightness on your terrace.

If you love the vintage decorating style, these elements are ideal for achieving this. However, if chosen well, they can be combined with almost any other decorative style.

Replace sofas with benches

The first impulse when opening a terrace is to place a large sofa in it, to enjoy moments of relaxation in the best conditions.

However, if the terrace is not very large, it is better to think about replacing the traditional sofa with a bench on which you can place cushions and mattress backs, thus achieving an almost equally comfortable result.

In addition, it is possible to use the same wall as the backrest for even more space saving. In this sense, wavy benches may be the most suitable choice.

Use cool, soft tones

And what colors to use when decorating a small terrace? Of course, it is best to reserve touches of color for accessories and opt for softer ones or neutrals such as white, gray or beige. In this way, an atmosphere of freshness will be created and the light will seem to increase during cloudy or gray times of the day.

Likewise, the blankets, cushions, curtains or tablecloths you use on your terrace should be white or in a soft color, which will help you create that bright atmosphere that is so appreciated in outdoor areas, especially if your furniture, walls or floors are darker. Don't be afraid to combine elements!

Conclusion

Having a small terrace is no excuse not to spend most of your time there. Although small, a terrace is a luxury that not everyone can enjoy at home, so if you have it, don’t stop making the most of it.

Choose the most suitable furniture by taking into account the characteristics of your terrace area, use colors that provide light and airiness, strategically place plants of different heights and tones, use multifunctional furniture and, above all, design your terrace together with yourself and your family.

Of course, you will want to spend most of your free time there.

The topic 17 ideas for decorating small terraces was first published on mobeltrend.com.