Making the most of a small space alfresco
While Australia is renowned for wide open spaces, the reality of our homes doesn’t always reflect that and we often have a smaller outdoor living space. With the modern trend of down-sizing, our backyards have become much smaller and with that, it can be challenging to create an illusion of space.
If you have a patio or pergola area that is on the smaller side there are some things you can do to make it appear bigger.
Here, we share five things that can help you create an illusion of space and maximise your alfresco area.
1. Retractable roofing
A retracting opening roof can open up to 135 degrees and then retracts back leaving approximately 75% open space. So when the weather is perfect you can open up your roof and instantly create a feeling of more space.
2. Frame with seating
When you have limited space, framing the area with built-in seating means you have ready-made seating and plenty of standing room for people to mingle. Adding cushions when needed turns a timber frame into a comfy couch. keep some portable furniture in storage for those occasions where you want to do some sit-down entertaining and invite people over for dinner.
3. Apply a minimalist approach
Using a minimalist approach and decluttering can create an illusion of space. You can add to the illusion by placing decorative mirrors on your walls (not too many) and use polished steel objects that reflect light for ornamental design. It’s low maintenance but high style
4. Design to scale
One of the key things that can make your patio area look larger is designing to scale. Choose smaller, fine lined furniture rather than bulky or heavy furniture. And. consider the materials you are using, create contrast and levels of interest by mixing up materials and plants.
5. Use the Rules of Perspective
Designing the space around the rules of perspective can help make a small area seem larger. The rules of perspective are chiefly that parallel lines appear to converge in the distance and objects then appear smaller than those close by.
For more small space design inspiration, you may enjoy this video.
