![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/patio-overhead.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nPhoto: James Bombales, design by Kate + Co. Design Inc.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Sure, you can string up bistro lights or replace sun-faded outdoor cushions, but if you really want to overhaul your outdoor space, you\u2019ve got to think big \u2014 even if you\u2019ve only got 400 square feet to work with. We can\u2019t promise these projects will be cheap or easy, but the payoff is well worth the investment. Here are 8 ways to design a small patio with big visual impact.<\/span><\/p>\n\n Photo:\u00a0threebirdsrenovations\/Instagram<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Traditional cedar pergolas are a bore. This season, it\u2019s all about clean lined structures. Big-box stores like The Home Depot and Target have started selling modern pergola designs, typically made of powder-coated steel. If you\u2019re handy, you could always purchase building plans on Etsy or scour DIY blogs for freebies.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo:\u00a0c.o.s_design\/Instagram<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n If your patio is looking, well, a little flat, consider installing multiple levels. Build a raised area to serve as an alfresco dining space, or dig down to create a 60s-inspired conversation pit. Adding multiple levels separates your patio into outdoor \u201crooms\u201d that each serve a purpose.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo:\u00a0artemisinvestments\/Instagram<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Summer days can be scorching, but when the sun goes down the temperature dips significantly. To prevent your patio party from ending early, purchase a propane or wood-burning fire pit. There are numerous styles and sizes to choose \u2014 online retailers like Wayfair sell models priced from just $45.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo:\u00a0outsideinbydenise\/Instagram<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n An in-ground plunge pool requires less time and money to maintain than a regular-sized pool. It\u2019ll keep you feeling refreshed all summer long and won\u2019t take up too much real estate in your backyard. While you can\u2019t swim laps in a plunge pool, you can use it to aquacize or soothe sore muscles and joints.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo:\u00a0jjbs_team\/Instagram<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n If you\u2019re dealing with nosy neighbors or want to add shade to your outdoor living space, a privacy screen is a must. Instead of installing wood slats horizontally, why not hang them vertically or in a <\/span>chevron pattern<\/span><\/a>? If you\u2019re looking to incorporate color and pattern, breeze block is a fantastic (and totally retro) option.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo:\u00a0dallavita\/Instagram<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Indoors, decorating a blank wall is no big deal \u2014 design a gallery wall, hang an oversized piece of art or group together collectibles. But outside, your options are limited (is it just me or is all outdoor wall art extremely cheesy?). Installing a vertical garden not only greens up your outdoor living space, it\u2019s an opportunity to cultivate fresh herbs, vegetables or colorful blooms.<\/p>\n Photo:\u00a0gardenbuilders\/Instagram<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Building your own patio furniture might seem like a sizable investment, but it might actually save you money in the long run. Built-in benches with hidden storage are great for entertaining large groups in a small space. You won\u2019t have to worry about mildew stains or keeping up with the latest outdoor furniture trends \u2014 just add some throw pillows and you\u2019re good to go.<\/p>\n1. A modern pergola lends an outdoor living space some edge.<\/b><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\n2.\u00a0A multi-level patio divides your space into well-defined zones.<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\n3. A sculptural fire pit keeps your guests cozy and encourages conversation.<\/b><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\n4. A plunge pool has a small footprint and requires less upkeep.<\/b><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\n5.\u00a0A privacy screen separates you from your neighbors and adds interest to your outdoor space.<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\n6. A space-saving vertical garden livens up a big blank wall.<\/b><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\n7. A built-in seating area offers storage and plenty of room for guests to spread out.<\/b><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\n8. A water feature adds instant ambiance and drowns out street noise.<\/b><\/h2>\n