While it may not seem like it over the past week or so, summer is coming and if you live in Bayside Melbourne, that means a patio is a must. But what if you don’t have the space for a large Melbourne patio? Can you still have a great patio when your block size limits what you can build?

The short answer to both of these questions is yes. While space will dictate how much furniture and guests you can fit into your Melbourne patio, there are ways of making the most of a small space. Here are some of Outside Concepts’ key tips. Western Suburbs Patio Builder

Making the most of a small Western Suburbs and Bayside Melbourne patio

  1. The same size room inside will feel smaller if you have a low ceiling and larger if you have a high ceiling; the same goes for outside. So instead of having a low roof, ensure plenty of space underneath for your noggin. There are ways to lift the roof of your new Bayside patio, such as using extended brackets to lift the roof above the height of your home’s roof and utilising a gable patio roof design. 
  2. Light, or the lack of it, can also make a space feel cramped and light can particularly be an issue if you have your patio on the south side of your house. Raising the roof of your patio will help, as will using polycarbonate roofing. You don’t necessarily need to use polycarbonate for your entire roof; a sheet or two mixed up with Colorbond is a great way to let light in. Alternatively, you can also add artificial light.
  3. Furniture choice is important in small Bayside Melbourne patios. While chunky furniture may look great, you’re much better off choosing finer pieces that won’t take up too much space. You’ll likely also need to choose between a table and chairs or an outdoor lounge. This will depend on how you intend to use the space. If it’s for sitting down to eat, the outdoor dining suite will be the better choice; if it’s for sitting to relax with a cuppa and breath in the outside air, an outdoor lounge may be ideal.
  4. Outdoor kitchens and large barbecues are great, but not if you must breathe in every time you squeeze past. Choose a small barbecue that doesn’t take up much space or, if you only cook outside occasionally, even one that can be put in storage and placed on a table when you want to use it.
  5. Choose light colours because dark colours will generally make spaces seem even smaller. Lighter colours can also help bounce light in darker areas.
  6. You might think of not having greenery in a small patio, but container gardens, vertical gardens and trailing plants can take up very little space and help make an inviting and comfortable area. Just don’t go planting any eucalyptus! 

While having a small Bayside Melbourne patio may seem a disadvantage, think of the positives: your budget will allow you to do a lot more. Embrace the small space and use your Bayside Melbourne patio all year round, not just in summer.

Life’s too short to compromise. Phone Outside Concepts on 1800 601 674 for a free quote.

A small Bayside Melbourne patio can be an asset all-year-round.