17 Concrete Patio Ideas for Your Small Backyard

Make the most of a small backyard with these simple concrete patio design ideas
By Anne Balogh, ConcreteNetwork.com columnist
Updated April 15, 2021


If your backyard (or budget) allows for installation of only a small concrete patio, you can still make a big impact by taking advantage of concrete's ability to be cast in nearly any shape, pattern, or color. Consider these decorative options to give your small patio greater visual appeal and functionality.

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SMALL CONCRETE PATIO IDEAS

Incorporate curves.

You don't have to settle for boring square shapes with straight lines. "There's a trend for curved patios that blend with the landscaping," says Matt Zook of J&H Decorative Concrete. He likes to shape concrete patios so they flow with the landscaping. His patios typically only "square off" when they meet up with a walkway or doorway.


Add a pattern or stenciled design.

You can give your small patio the look of natural stone or brick by using a stamped pattern or stencils. With stencils, you can also create more elaborate custom designs, such as a faux outdoor area rug.


Add a border.

Zook likes to frame small patios with a border, especially if the patio has a pattern. "It looks cleaner," he says. "I don't like the look of a pattern running all the way off the edge." Borders also are an effective, inexpensive way to dress up plain concrete, if economy is an issue. Other easy-on-the-budget finishes for small patios include exposed aggregate and a rock salt finish (see Three Budget-Friendly Decorative Finishes for Exterior Concrete).


Use color judiciously.

You can achieve a wide array of great decorative effects using integral or topically applied color. For a small patio, however, it's best to keep it simple. "The price goes up with more choices of color," says Zook. "It can be more economical to use the same color for patterned fields and borders." He also recommends choosing colors that match or complement the house. For more ideas and design tips, see Colored Concrete.


Allow enough space for outdoor furniture.

Zook recommends a minimum patio size of 20 to 25 square feet to accommodate furniture and space for walking. He tells customers that for a six-chair outdoor table, they will need at least 10 feet of circumference for the table, plus additional walk-around room. Here are more patio sizing tips from landscape designer Scott Cohen of The Green Scene.


WHAT CAN I DO WITH A SMALL CONCRETE PATIO?

Whether you live in a condo, apartment, or just have a little yard, you'll be amazed at what can be done with a small patio.

Here are ways you can transform your small patio into a useable outdoor living area:

  • Stain your existing concrete slab to upgrade the look with a fresh color
  • Make your concrete patio bigger by having new concrete poured to expand the square footage
  • Use concrete pavers to add on to your existing patio
  • Resurface your patio to cover cracks, discoloration or unsightly old concrete
  • Get small patio furniture that's comfortable and won't dominate your outdoor space
  • Decorate your small patio to make it feel like an extension of your home
  • Add string lights so you can use the patio at night
  • Use patio walls or fences to grow plants or add a small wall fountain
  • Accentuate the views beyond your patio to make it feel bigger
  • Use plants to make your patio lush, try these Plants for Small Gardens
  • Get a portable fire pit that can be stored when not in use
  • Turn your patio into a dining area by adding a bistro table and chairs

For more design ideas for a small concrete patio, check out these projects:

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