When working with a small outdoor space, it is not just size that counts. Everything from placement to material choices of your backyard storage ideas can have an impact. It is about seamlessly integrating ergonomic yet beautiful options into the area. Happily, there is no shortage of backyard storage ideas for small spaces that maintain style and elegance.
As Bobby Berk has shared in his small space organization tips, similar to how a chaotic inside space might make you feel overwhelmed, a small backyard is even more susceptible to disorder if storage is not perfected, so it deserves our attention.
Thankfully, designers and garden experts have been overcoming the most common small backyard mistakes for years, and getting underneath the skin of storage is one of the first battles.
(Image credit: Tom Grimes / Elizabeth Cooper)
7 small backyard storage ideas
When it comes to small backyard storage, you simply do not want the aesthetics of your space to be an afterthought. There are plenty of Amazon outdoor furniture ideas to bring function to a yard or cozy outdoor space, but it is all in the styling too, as our experts explain. Here are some backyard storage ideas to covet for compact spaces.
1. Opt for built-in benches and ottomans for cushions
Photography: Lauren Miller / Design: STUDIO HA/WA
(Image credit: Photography: Lauren Miller / Design: STUDIO HA/WA)
Combining seating with storage in a small yard is a brilliant way to start. Considering where you can store outdoor furnishings is key to stop them loosing their charm and to avoid having to clean mold off outdoor cushions at all.
‘Storage is a key element for an outdoor space,’ says Erin Hannon-Watkinson, the founder and creative director of Studio HA/WA. ‘When approaching the design of an outdoor space it’s important to consider where you can store cushions, furniture covers, or more decorative elements in inclement weather and in the off-season. It is important to plan ahead and allow the space for storage so that it isn’t an afterthought.’
The elements must not be forgotten either, even in a small backyard, so when choosing seating and other furnishings that double up as storage, make sure they really are fulfilling many purposes by keeping your items protected too.
‘Durability is key,’ continues Erin. ‘Depending on weather and location, outdoor materials need to be hard-working and durable to withstand the elements. We often include concrete, powder-coated metals, teak, and composite decking because they are known for longevity outdoors and we believe your outdoor space should be low maintenance.’
Erin Hannon-Watkinson is the founder and creative director of Studio HA/WA in Toronto.
The flip-top lid on this bench makes it a perfect storage solution for throw pillows and other soft furnishings that you might not want to leave exposed to the elements.
2. Add an outdoor bar that defines a layout
(Image credit: Lauren Miller Photography/for Studio HA/WA)
If you ever thought that a smaller outdoor space would stop you enjoying the delights of al fresco living, we have some exciting news, it does not have to.
To work with a cozier backyard space or roof garden, creativity with storage units is essential – and many can serve a dual purpose. The above small outdoor space was designed by Studio HA/WA, and storage was an essential part of the brief: ‘Our team recently designed a rooftop space and a part of our client’s wish list was ample storage to avoid many trips up and down the stairs,’ shares Erin.
‘Our team designed a large slatted teak storage unit that also acts as a bar (or counter) with an integrated bar fridge with an abundance of storage. By making it multifunctional it is not only highly functional but feels integrated into the space as a design element, rather than just a utilitarian element.’
This is easy to do when building bespoke, but you can still find key investment pieces that will also pull double duty. We spotted many outdoor bars at Wayfair that include storage shelves, for instance.
Aloria Solid Wood Bar Set
We are loving the hidden storage in this bar: Two shelves in the back include protective rails to hold all your barware and accessories, while a third bottom shelf features round holes to accommodate bottles wine and spirits.
3. Consider living walls with cleverly disguised storage pockets
(Image credit: Future / James Merrell)
If you have balcony garden or other cozier space where you are limited in terms of what you can grow, remember that trellises and using the y-axis in general is a great way to save space. Function and beauty can be combined through vertical gardening.
‘Small backyards have been a rewarding challenge that I embrace with enthusiasm in my projects,’ shares Joyce Huston, lead interior designer and co-founder at Decorilla Online Interior Design. ‘I always keep in mind that the most important aspect is to create a good balance between maximizing space without compromising the style integrity.’
The green-thumbed among us have options as Joyce shares: ‘For plant lovers, I recommend living walls with hidden compartments, they work perfectly for storing gardening tools discreetly.’
Whether you choose edibles or plants for a flowering living wall to discreetly enclose your favorite (water-protected) pair of secateurs or spare seed trays, it will make a beautiful addition and encourage insects and wildlife into the space too for a biodiverse yard.
In the span of over a decade at Decorilla, Joyce has helped thousands of clients create custom design solutions for a range of projects including, but not limited to, retail, commercial, hospitality, industrial and residential spaces. This has been accomplished by developing individualized solutions and by listening to and understanding each client’s needs, personal expectations, and matters at hand. Her work has impacted and helped Decorilla’s team grow to over 350 interior designers and 300 furniture partners.
4. Incorporate streamlined planters with hidden storage
(Image credit: Future / Polly Wreford)
Ergonomic furniture in a small backyard or cozy balcony most certainly includes streamlined planters that are lightweight and easy to move around should you need to. Look to keep a sense of flow and rhythm to enhance a yard layout.
‘I have been adding Corten steel planters with built-in storage, I like that they offer a sleek look and eliminate the need for bulky plastic containers,’ adds Joyce.
This Corten steel planter on Amazon comes in a natural rusty finish which will weather nicely over time. It has more length than width, so it could make a great addition to smaller patios and backyard spaces.
5. Make everything snug to the layout
(Image credit: Amber Freda)
To enhance a small backyard layout further, make use of corners with an L-shaped seat like this one above.
‘This L-shaped bench is made of knotty cedar and features seats that lift up for storage underneath,’ shares garden design expert Amber Freda. ‘Storage benches are an attractive way to maximize a small space without giving up room for entertaining and relaxation.’
If you are designing this yourself or having to improvise with one you already have, Amber has some key advice: ‘When designing a storage bench, you will probably either want to make sure the storage area is waterproof or use plastic bin inserts to store items you don’t want to get wet.’
Amber Freda started her garden and landscape design business in 2004. Her mission is to provide a full range of luxury landscape design services and create unique outdoor spaces that capture her clients’ personality and style. She personally oversees every aspect of each project, from design to installation.
6. Include ‘unexpected’ storage
(Image credit: Photography: Lauren Miller / Design: STUDIO HA/WA / Styling: Me&Mo Creative)
Adding a firepit can bring a sense of conviviality to a space, and remember how especially in smaller yards, nothing must be overlooked or it will not be given a home.
‘When considering a firepit or outdoor fireplace, think also about where to store your wood,’ says Erin. ‘There are some great log holders for purchase or you can opt for integrated log storage right into the fireplace as we recently did for our clients by creating a niche for firewood storage located on the side. It’s a small, unexpected detail, but keeps the wood tidy and still at arm’s reach when needed.’
7. Favor natural but practical materials for style and cohesion
(Image credit: Decorilla)
Even if inviting gorgeous 2024 plant color trends and more into your yard, keeping things simple in terms of furniture and planter materials can create better cohesion.
‘Speaking of ditching plastic and maximizing space, I have been using chic deck boxes made from woven wicker, while they add a touch of elegance, they are also perfect for storing cushions, throws, or even pool toys,’ adds Joyce.
Where possible, it is always good to favor natural materials. Thankfully there are some good-looking faux natural pieces available that are hardier in terms of protecting backyard essentials.
‘I typically prefer natural materials like teak or wicker, but sometimes practicality calls for a synthetic material to protect contents from the elements,’ says Paul de Andrade, president of the New York-based Studio Kestrel.
‘My favorite materials for any outdoor furnishings, including storage, is anything with the appearance of natural materials – such as stone like travertine, wood such as teak, wicker or bamboo. Materials like this blend with the natural world around it, generally weather beautifully, and do not have an ugly plasticky, synthetic appearance to them (like many outdoor furnishings tend to have),’ continues Paul.
Paul de Andrade, founder and principal designer of Studio Kestrel, is dedicated to crafting spaces that transcend the ordinary. With a background in engineering and journalism, he brings a unique perspective to interior design, with a portfolio spanning residential and commercial. Studio Kestrel’s ethos revolves around design that evolves in value and enriches lives, ensuring efficiency and transparency in every project. From the initial consultation to the final reveal, Paul and his team prioritize an unparalleled client experience. www.studiokestrel.com
‘When designing an outdoor space, think of it as another room of the home,’ recommends Erin Hannon-Watkinson. ‘By painting the fence the same colour as the siding, it gives the illusion of an outdoor room with four walls. Keep your material and color pallet paired down and create visual interest with texture and simple patterns.’ These are all ways to make a small garden look bigger, and great to bear in mind when shopping for your small yard storage solutions.
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