Maximise Your Small Space for Outdoor Entertainment in Wellington

1. Opt for Functional Furniture

When space is tight, you need to think creatively about how you can best use it. Avoid that cluttered feeling by choosing multi-functional furniture (such as seating that doubles as storage), compact dining sets that can fold away when not in use, and built-in bench seating for ample spots to sit without taking up precious space. You can also invest in convertible furniture that can be rearranged to suit different occasions, and fun additions such as a portable bar cart that can be moved around your outdoor space as needed. 

2. Think vertical

Utilising vertical space is a great small patio idea. Hanging planters or wall-mounted gardens will add greenery without taking up floor space, while adding elements with height, such as a large planter, topiary, or tall privacy screen can help give your patio or deck the illusion of space. If you’re looking for small outdoor balcony decorating ideas, rail planters are a great option to bring colour and greenery to your balcony without taking up prime real estate!

3. Bring the Fun with Delightful Decor

Investing in small patio décor creates a fun and inviting space. Use a consistent colour palette to create a cohesive and visually appealing look, add a feature object such as a hanging chair or swing, include artwork, or even add an outdoor rug and ottoman to help define the space. The furniture you choose will also play an important part in the overall look of your space – this article offers handy advice for choosing and maintaining your outdoor furniture

4. Light the Night

Lighting your outdoor entertainment space creates ambience and atmosphere and is one of the best backyard deck ideas on a budget. From fairy and festoon lights around the patio to solar lights that illuminate gardens and pathways, there are plenty of outdoor lighting ideas that can elevate your space without breaking the bank. Of course there are also high tech, designer, and security solutions available - take a look at this article about how to choose the right outdoor lighting for more tips and ideas. 

5. Get in the Zone

Zoning is a great trick of the trade to get the most out of compact areas. By creating different zones for dining, lounging, and cooking it makes the space more functional, and feels bigger than one large blank area. Change heights, create dividers with planters, use different hardscaping materials, or even utilise outdoor rugs to help create distinct areas. Layering your lighting can also help with zoning - use a combination of overhead lighting, string lights, and lanterns to create a warm and inviting atmosphere and help set the scene for your outdoor entertaining.

6. Create Cover for all Seasons

Regardless of how big or small your outdoor entertainment area is, creating an outdoor covered area will always be a good idea. Whether you opt for a pergola or awning, louvre roofing, or a permanent structure, cover offers shade and shelter, and allows you to make the most out of your outdoor space. This Kapiti Coast project installed a pergola so the owners could get more use out of the deck, while this bespoke verandah in Hataitai created a stunning outdoor living area for all seasons.

7. Keep it cooking with outdoor kitchen ideas for small spaces

Kiwis love to cook and dine al fresco, so a dedicated cooking space is a fabulous entertainment upgrade for your backyard. If you have room, a built in BBQ with prep space can help the cooking zone feel polished and purposeful. If you do opt for a portable grill, store it in the shed or garage when not in use to free up valuable space. Don’t forget options such as portable pizza ovens which are great for entertaining! Your Landscaping Consultant will have plenty of small outdoor kitchen ideas to help you make the most of your space, plus it is worthwhile to read this article about planning an outdoor kitchen that can stand up to windy Wellington weather! 

8. Don’t forget to ‘Go with the Flow’

Creating indoor outdoor flow is an important part of any outdoor entertainment landscaping. Easy access and a natural flow between your indoor and outdoor living spaces will make your outdoor area feel like an extension of your home, ensure entertaining is a breeze, and create different spaces for guests to relax. Stacking slider doors (as seen in this beautiful Karori home) are a fabulous option for a spacious and modern look or consider a serving window directly from the kitchen to help keep the food and drinks flowing from inside to out!

9. Take a Seat

You and your guests will want to take a seat at some point, so don’t skimp on an outdoor small seating area. From bistro sets and bench seating to ottomans and poufs, there are solutions to seating no matter how small your space is. If the space is really tight, consider folding furniture that can be brought out when needed for extra guests, but keep a dedicated jack and jill chair or small café table available to enjoy your morning cuppa!

10. Call the Pros

When it comes to outdoor living ideas, our top design tip is to get in touch with an expert! Our Wellington landscaping consultants can help you make the most of your backyard, regardless of size, and create a fabulous outdoor entertaining space that you will love. 

Ready to transform your small outdoor space?

The friendly team at Zones Wellington are here to help! They offer free, no obligation consultations so get in touch today to make an appointment and see how Zones can create outdoor living you will love.