Maximize your outdoor space: our decorating strategies for small gardens, balconies and terraces

When it comes to decorating and gardening, enthusiasts are often faced with a major challenge: optimizing space in restricted outdoor environments. 

And yes, outdoor design varies greatly according to the size of the space available... While a vast garden can accommodate a multitude of specific nooks and crannies, a small balcony needs to be laid out with more restraint. So it's essential to think holistically, harmonizing elements as you would any interior room. 

In this article, discover all our tips for transforming your small outdoor spaces, because even the most modest areas can be metamorphosed into veritable havens of peace and beauty! We also share our style inspirations so you can choose the one that perfectly reflects your desires. Get ready to be inspired and transform your little outdoor corner into a true outdoor gem!

Our tips for making the most of your small outdoor space

When designing your outdoor space, efficient use of space is essential to creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment. There are several best practices to follow in order to exploit the full potential of your outdoor space.

Efficient use of space 

A key strategy is to play with levels, integrating elements at different heights to give a sense of depth and dimension. Wall shelves, hanging pots or plant stands can be used to exploit vertical space, offering a captivating visual effect. 

Don't underestimate the importance of vertical space in a small outdoor space; vertical gardening solutions such as wall shelving, trellises or hanging planters can be used to maximize the space available.

At the same time, choosing a consistent color palette is crucial to creating a harmonious, soothing ambience. Opt for neutral tones for furniture, accessories and plants, as they can visually enlarge the space. Touches of bright color can also be incorporated to add dynamism and visual interest. Bear in mind that colors have a significant impact on the perception of space; therefore, avoid dark hues that can shrink the space and favor light, luminous tones that will give an impression of enlargement. 

Multifunctional, foldable, lightweight furniture

This clever approach doesn't just save space, it also offers additional storage solutions, ideal for keeping your space tidy and functional. 

At the same time, choosing lightweight, transparent furniture can transform the perception of your space. Elegant chairs or glass tables let light circulate freely, giving the illusion of a larger, airier space. 

For ultimate flexibility, opt for folding or stackable furniture. Folding chairs or stacking stools can be easily stored away when not in use, freeing up precious square meters for smooth circulation. 

Avoid oversized furniture that visually weighs down the space, opting instead for pieces adapted to the size of your interior. 

Decorating tips that make all the difference

First of all, mirrors aren't just for interiors. By installing them strategically on walls or fences, you can create an illusion of depth and grandeur, as well as reflecting natural light for a bright, welcoming atmosphere. 

Textiles also play a crucial role in creating a warm, comfortable ambience. Opt for light, airy materials like linen or cotton for your cushions and curtains, adding texture without visually weighing down your outdoor space. 

Finally, don't forget the right lighting to highlight the key features of your space. Recessed lights, solar lanterns or string lights can create a magical atmosphere, prolonging your outdoor evenings. With these simple tips, transform your garden, balcony or terrace into a haven of peace and conviviality.

Secrets of a dazzling miniature garden: plant it!

To create a dazzling miniature garden on your balcony, planting is the key! But before you embark on this adventure, take the time to plan and think about the design best suited to your space and lifestyle. Consider the exposure of your balcony, its load-bearing capacity and your maintenance habits. If you're often on the move or prefer less demanding plants, opt for hardy varieties or install an automatic watering system to simplify maintenance.

Make smart use of vertical space with hanging planters, wall-mounted shelves and trellises to grow a wide variety of plants without cluttering up the floor. You can even transform a wooden ladder into a multi-level shelf for an original presentation of your plants.

For optimal greening of your outdoor space, opt for trellises to free up floor space while adding a refreshing touch of greenery. Select plants suited to small spaces, such as compact varieties, potted herbs or climbing plants to dress walls and trellises. Plants with dense foliage or generous flowering are also perfect for adding color and texture without visually weighing down the space. 

Key elements of terrace decoration: choosing a style that suits you

In the quest for the perfect patio design, it's crucial to choose a style that reflects you and harmonizes with your interior as well as the rest of your outdoor space. 

DIY to personalize your balcony 

There's nothing like transforming your balcony into an oasis of creativity and comfort with a few clever DIY projects. 

Start by bringing your walls to life with a pallet plant wall. Attach flower pots or planters for an explosion of greenery, whether you choose to paint the pallet in a trendy color or leave it raw for a rustic touch. 

Then brighten up your evenings with customized hanging lanterns. Use tin cans that you can paint or decorate as you wish, and add an LED candle inside for instant warmth. For a touch of practical originality, transform an old wooden frame into a chalkboard, ideal for displaying messages, menus or artwork. 

Add a bohemian touch to your balcony by making macramé hanging baskets for your favorite plants, choosing ropes in trendy colors. And to make the most of your space, build a custom shelf from recycled wood to display your plants, books or decorations. 

Finally, add a touch of comfort with personalized floor cushions, lovingly crafted in trendy, cozy fabrics. With a touch of upcycling, transform your relaxation area into a haven of peace by placing an armchair on a recycled pallet and using a white sheet as a shade cloth. Accompanied by XXL green plants to define the space, your balcony will become the ideal place for a romantic tête-à-tête or simply to relax and enjoy life outdoors.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambience of Ibiza without leaving your terrace, thanks to an exotic transformation. 

If you aspire to the sunny pleasures of this iconic island, why not recreate its spirit in your own outdoor space? The key to Iberian style lies in the choice of colors: opt for a clean, immaculate decor, with touches of camel for a warm, sunny ambience. 

Imagine a wooden pergola standing out against a white background, furnished with simple, minimalist furniture that lets the space breathe, evoking both the bohemian charm and refined elegance of Ibiza. 

Add matching cushions to the waxed concrete floor for a touch of sophistication. And to complete this Iberian ambience, don't forget the essential shade sail, both functional and aesthetic, preserving the bohemian style you're looking for while offering protection from the sun. 

Immerse yourself in an atmosphere of absolute serenity with the unmissable Zen terrace 

For a totally relaxing experience, opt for a Zen decor that combines nature and minimalism, a timeless trend for many years. In this spirit, natural materials such as rattan, cane and wood are favored for garden furniture, creating a soothing, harmonious atmosphere.

With only a rattan chaise longue for lounging, this terrace blends harmoniously into the greenery, creating a zen atmosphere where you'll dream of spending the whole summer bubbling away.

With noble, natural materials, soft tones and a touch of tradition mixed with contemporary accents, you'll create an environment conducive to serenity. 

The must-haves of this style? Elegant garden furniture, refined decoration with vases filled with garden flowers, and lush greenery. With these elements, your terrace will become a true haven of peace, perfect for recharging your batteries and relaxing outdoors.

Immerse yourself in a magical world by transforming your terrace into a magnificent Moroccan garden. 

If you have a space framed by walls, this Moroccan garden makeover will sublimate your outdoor corner and turn it into a veritable oasis of charm. 

Inspired by geometric landscapes, vibrant colors and oriental style, this garden instantly evokes tales of a thousand and one nights. Imagine a terrace laid out like a riad, adorned with furniture and objects unearthed in oriental souks, evoking Moroccan craftsmanship. 

Berber rugs and cushions add an authentic touch, while lanterns and candleholders illuminate the night with a bewitching glow. This space becomes a place for sharing, with poufs and coffee tables for enjoying Moroccan-style tea. Cushions in Berber motifs and tangy colors add a touch of playfulness, while the presence of cacti adds a further exotic touch to this bewitching garden. 

Discover timeless country elegance on your balcony 

This country-chic style draws on old-world charm to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With its natural stone floor and vintage outdoor furniture, this terrace exudes authenticity. Soft tones and a plant arrangement as centerpiece add a touch of refinement, in keeping with the codes of country chic.

Every detail of this terrace evokes an ultra-sophisticated country-chic style, from vintage XXL candlesticks to antique-style vases and hand-embroidered cushions with elegant floral motifs. A subtle nod to the overall aesthetic, where old-world charm blends harmoniously with a bohemian ambience and a contemporary touch.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of shabby chic, a vintage trend that's causing a sensation! This retro style is now making its way onto our terraces, delighting lovers of antiques and antique pieces. In the spotlight: aged materials, weathered furniture, pastel shades and period lighting.

Transport yourself to the refined ambience of English homes with a touch of Bridgerton on this terrace, where English country style meets vintage elegance. The vintage bed has been transformed into an outdoor sofa, adding a touch of authenticity and comfort. On this terrace, every detail exudes the charm of yesteryear, offering a peaceful refuge where time seems to have stood still. 

Celebrate every moment with guinguette style

This style is an explosion of color and conviviality! To recreate the cheerful atmosphere of Sunday balls, all you need to do is add a few essential touches to your outdoor space. Set up a large, inviting table to bring family and friends together, accompanied by simple, effective bistro chairs. Add a checkered tablecloth for retro charm and summery table decorations for a festive touch. And to top it all off, hang a garland of lights to brighten up the evenings after dark!

Simplicity is the key to success: bistro chairs in flashy colors, spacious tables that invite sharing, and string lights that lend a cheerful atmosphere to the decor.