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Lifestyle Real Estate

Ask an expert: Teeny-tiny patio edition

Taking in the summer sun on a condo balcony or patio should be easy, but space limitations often pose challenges. Is it possible to add greenery to your little slice of concrete? Can you do anything to block the gazes of too-close neighbours? Should you even bother decorating your outdoor space?

We asked HGTV Canada’s Carson Arthur (carsonarthur.com), host of Critical Listing and MicroPro Sienna spokesperson, to offer some solutions to common small-space patio frustrations.

What are some of your top tips for furnishing a small patio?

Take a look at the areas that aren’t being used and make them work for you. My favourite unused space is under benches. Built-in seating is a great way to add storage and hide all of the toys, tools and even extra pillows and blankets. Remember, clutter in a small space is a definite no-no because it visually makes everything seem crowded. 

Be careful, though: outdoor storage needs to be waterproof or you’ll end up with mould or even unwanted guests.

One downside of living in a condo is that patio spaces are often packed together or facing other units. Are there ways to increase privacy?

For the last few years, privacy screens have been the immediate fix for many condo dwellers and homeowners. Tri-fold privacy screens made for outdoor use are temporary decorative pieces that can add colour and character to any deck or balcony. 

The key to maximizing the benefits of a privacy screen is to put it close to where you need the most protection, but far enough away that it doesn’t crowd your useable space. 

What’s the best way to add some greenery to a small patio?

I always go with containers or custom planters. The key is choosing a custom design that makes sense for your space. Again, you can capitalize on unused space by using a raised bed that has storage room underneath. 

With DIY here to stay, companies are getting really good at helping novice builders get started. MicroPro Sienna wood is a fantastic choice because it looks great and resists rot, so it can handle plenty of watering. You can e-mail them from their website and request easy-to-follow plans to build your own and make a statement on your balcony.

A lot of condo dwellers are on a tight budget and, let’s be honest, we only get to use our patios a few months of the year. Do you have any tips for furnishing and decorating a small patio on a budget?

Never underestimate the value of a patio. Even though we may only use them for a limited season, their square footage is always part of the MLS listing. They may be outdoors, but they are living space. Any money spent improving the patio is an investment in your home. 

If you’re a renter, take your time buying your outdoor furniture. Go for individual pieces instead of collections and mix and match to customize to your needs. This will allow you more flexibility if you decide to move. 

What’s the best way to light a small outdoor space?

If you’ve got sun, go with solar lighting. New technologies in mini solar panels combined with LED lights give you more for less. I’ve been impressed with solar chandeliers, spotlights and even lamp posts. 

In a shady locale where solar isn’t an option, definitely go for energy-wise LED lights. 

Condo balconies tend to have grimy concrete flooring. Any solutions for hiding this?

Deck your balcony! More condo owners are going for the rich, warm look of wood on top of the concrete to add a little unexpected warmth to a sterile space. Just beware of the challenges of working in a confined space.

MicroPro Sienna is perfect for balconies because it doesn’t require initial staining, meaning less mess. Also consider a simple outdoor rug. What could be easier?

Should your balcony decor match or complement the interior design of your home? 

Complement is key. The outdoor decor is still part of your living space. Having visual flow is really important in creating harmony. If you go from one room to another and the colour pallets are drastically different, you are visually jarred. The same is true for the outdoors. 

What are the big outdoor decor trends right now, and how can you incorporate them into a small balcony or patio space? 

Veggies! The grow-it-yourself movement is sweeping across Canada. Everyone wants to grow their own food, and the balcony or small patio is a perfect opportunity to do so. 

Most vegetables are great for small spaces. Just avoid anything with large vines – they can easily get out of control.

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