19 ways to give your patio a makeover (2024)

Create the perfect indoor-outdoor space and utilise your patio for alfresco meals with a retractable awning, as seen here in the garden of interiors stylist and creative director, Sally Cullen. It'll create privacy, plus shelter, and it'll help to control light so you can enjoy mealtimes and relaxing in a shaded area.

Image: Ardoise Awning, Hillarys

When designing a patio, remember to be sensitive to the style of your house. A modern house will suit more contemporary paving styles, while traditional paving lends itself well to period properties.

Durable outdoor tiles, for example, are a contemporary choice. You can't go wrong with stone effect porcelain tiles – you're guaranteed a clean, sleek finish.

Image: Bellevue White Stone Effect Large Outdoor Porcelain Slab Tile, Tile Mountain

But updating decking or patio tiles can be costly, so a quick and easy alternative is to invest in a high-quality outdoor rug that can be used to conceal tired flooring. With a multitude of patterns and colourways on offer, you can swap options in and out depending on the occasion.

Image: Stockholm Bistro Set, Next

Add wow factor to a small patio with statement tiles. Porcelain, Victorian-style matt-finish tiles will add instant period charm – and bring plenty of character to a city garden. Just add some sun loungers, a hanging egg chair or a modern bench, and relax.

Image: Brompton Porcelain Clarence Tiles, Ca' Pietra

A little careful planning can make your patio area feel much more spacious. If space allows, we recommend zoning areas into 'rooms'– that is, using furniture and accessories to create distinct spaces with defined purposes.

For example, create a 'room' to relax with the addition of bean bags and a jute rug, and another area will be your 'room' for entertaining with a fire pit and chairs.

Image: Urban Garden, Wayfair

If you want to create a patio area that feels contemporary, choose garden furniture with plenty of clean lines and hairpin metal frames, like this Teka chair inspired by modern Scandinavian design. Pair with plenty of greenery and you'll have a patio area that feels almost tropical.

Image: Habitat Teka Metal Chair, Argos

In any small space, furniture that has more than one use is invaluable. This is never more true than on your patio, where floor space is at a premium and functionality is crucial.

Invest in at least one piece of patio furniture that also acts as storage, such as stools and benches with concealed spaces. This fire pit bowl (pictured) can be transformed into a handy coffee table with the addition of a lid.

Image: Hemi 36 Fire Bowl with Custom Hardwood Table Top, Solus Decor

If your options are limited when it comes to updating patio furniture or flooring, don't despair. The right accessories can make all the difference and can be easy to update depending on the occasion, mood, and time of year.

Having a selection of tablecloths and serveware will mean you always have to elevate the space. You can also consider the small details, such as placemats, cutlery and glassware. Flowers can be used as a fresh centrepiece and lanterns add a lovely touch of ambience.

Image: Wexford Limestone Cobble Tumbled Finish, Ca' Pietra

Small garden patios don't have the benefit of ample floor space, so when it comes to choosing outdoor dining sets, opt for designs that are square or rectangular. Cube-like furniture is usually better than circular designs, as chairs can be easily pushed underneath.

Image: Indu 4 Seater Metal Patio Set, Habitat

Alongside container gardening, a wall mounted vertical garden is ideal for those who don't have a large garden patio. Think of it as your own modern living plant wall – it'll make a lovely backdrop.

Image: Slatted Wall Planter Shelf, Forest

Tall, leafy greenery not only brings a touch of nature to your patio but also draws the eye upwards, making the space feel much larger. Choose planters to tie in with the rest of your scheme for a cohesive look.

Image: Billy Bistro Set, Dobbies