This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Photo Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways for Small Outdoor Covered Patio Ideas
- Patio Furniture
- Outdoor Kitchen
- Fire Pit Area
- Outdoor Daybed, Lounge Furniture
Picking out Patio Furniture can seem daunting
We hope our guide will make it easier after you have an idea on how to section areas. Having a backyard patio, even with a small backyard, can be a refuge for relaxation and hanging out is very special.
Depending upon your patio design, if you have an outdoor covered patio, you’re probably already enjoying it as a place to relax and entertain. When you want to invite friends and family over for outdoor entertaining, having different areas set up can make the space more functional. Picking out patio furniture can seem like a daunting task.
A dining area with a table and chairs is perfect for hosting outdoor dinner parties or barbecues. If you have the space, consider adding a built-in outdoor kitchen for even more convenience when cooking for a crowd.
An outdoor fireplace or fire pit is also a great gathering spot and can help extend the use of your outdoor living space into the cooler months. Here are some outdoor covered patio ideas for setting up different zones in your outdoor living space. See our blog on outdoor furniture.
Dining Area
Outdoor Kitchen
Fireplace or Fire Pit
Creating a lounge area in your outdoor living area, will provide a comfortable winding down space. We are assuming your patio design is covered and a basic rectangle. You will need to measure the space for each area so that the appropriate sized furniture will fit. Your outdoor living space is an extension of your home, so make it a place you enjoy spending time. Creating special memories with family and friends this summer is what this guide is about.
Creating an area to enjoy the fresh air and relax is essential to enjoying the outdoors. Whether it is a short time for happy hour or several hours to spend reading a book, having comfortable outdoor furniture is key to enjoying this space. Look for pieces that are lower to the ground and invite you to sink in and relax. Soft, comfy cushions that you lose yourself in. Pillows to prop your head or rest your feet on.
A small table to rest a book or a drink is another benefit. An outdoor rug can help to define the space and make it feel like an outdoor living room and cozy. Here are some examples of comfortable lounge areas you can set up. Mix it up, a matching set, or just a few pieces. We will suggest the following:
Outdoor Daybed
Lounge Chairs and Sofas
Bean Bag Chair
Hammock
Rocking Chair
Outdoor Covered Patio Ideas: Daybed
A great patio idea that is unique and envied for is an Outdoor Patio Daybed. This type of patio furniture needs to be measured so that it doesn’t look too crowded. But if you want outdoor furniture that screams luxury and relaxation, then an outdoor daybed is perfect for you. Depending upon your patio design, will determine if a daybed is a good option. Daybeds are perfect for lounging around, taking a nap, or reading a book. They can be placed directly on the patio or porch floor, or on a raised platform. Add some plush outdoor pillows and cushions for extra comfort. Some things need to be considered before you invest in a outdoor daybed.
- The size of the daybed is one of the first things that you have to consider because of two reasons. Patio space is limited. Do you want it to be completely used up by a daybed? Do you even have enough space to place one? How many people will use the daybed at the same time. You don’t want a bed that is too big or occupies too much space on the patio. On the other hand, you don’t want it too small either.
- Materials and durability are often two aspects of a product that go hand in hand. The durability of furniture designed for external use has to be pretty outstanding considering the fact that it doesn’t benefit from the same level of protection as inside furniture does. Your daybed made from the material sunbrella is a good choice.
- Weight capacity is another factor that can make or break the deal when it comes to buying an outdoor daybed. The weight capacity of a product will determine how much weight it can hold at once.
- The canopy of an outdoor patio daybed is just as important as every other element in its construction. While canopies will vary from one model and one manufacturer to another, there are a few features that you can’t compromise and that every solid product should have.
- First of all, a canopy should be weather-resistant. If the fabric of the canopy is going to let water through its fibers at the first sign of the rain, that means it hasn’t been properly treated and it’s something you want to avoid. These canopies should also have some sort of retractable mechanism so that you can bask in the sun or hide in the shade whenever you want to. Furthermore, the canopy of an outdoor daybed should be able to block as much UV rays as possible. Some models don’t have included canopies built into their construction, so if you want to use these daybeds when the sun is powerful, make sure you don’t forget to put on a lot of sunscreens. Placing a daybed on your patio, creates a private space as long as your patio design will accommodate the size.
- Seating is another part of an outdoor daybed that requires your attention because it determines the amount of comfort that you’ll feel when you’re using the product. Thankfully, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to outdoor daybed cushions, so there are high chances of you coming across seating that’s as soft or as firm as you want it to be. That being said, the quality of the cushions and their weather-resistant factor isn’t negotiable.
Sunset West Outdoor Patio Daybed
CurranHome Daybed
Arhaus Daybed
Perigold Domus Ventures Outdoor Patio Daybed
Outdoor Covered Patio Ideas: Lounge Chairs and Sofas
Creating a patio area that is your own design with a sitting area and a few side tables will help you enjoy the warmer months ahead. Adding some plants to sit on top of side tables or hang from the ceiling will create a garden area under your covered patio.
Patio design ideas can be as simple as a couple of chairs under the shade, an extension of the house using sofas and decorating in a similar style as inside. Patios can hold a small garden, your favorite flowers in planters or some lanterns to help set the mode for relaxation. Some patios look out onto a pool and creating a privacy fence using planters is another idea. Just adding some greenery to your space makes the space feel better.
Sometimes adding a pergola outside a patio filled with plants can create an oasis for relaxation. Add a fire pit for those cool winter evenings. Make your backyard patio a place where you will want to go to unwind. Add some outdoor light to help create the outdoor area you have been looking for.
PopSugar Living
Another patio idea is creating, even a cozy space to make a backyard patio, that can do wonders for your mental health. If you have some space and need some string lights or a hot tub to add to your outdoor space, now might be the time to do it. It’s time to take full advantage of the gift that is outdoor space. Patio furniture can be practical but to enjoy your space focus on comfort.
To see other great pieces at PopSugar Living, click here.
All Modern Carmen Porch Swing with Stand
A Round Chair: AllModern Mcwethy Swing Chair with Stand
Haven Teak Outdoor Sofa With Sunbrella Cushions, Sunbrella Rust by Neighbor
This lovely set comes in 6 colors and has matching chairs. Relax outdoors in comfort with our modern armed outdoor sofa made with sustainably-sourced Grade A teak and Sunbrella acrylic fabric cushions. Perfect for a long life outdoors, our solid teak wood frame is durable, long-lasting, and resists mold while the Sunbrella cushions are fade-proof, stain-resistant, and machine-washable. Before purchasing a sofa, think of your patio design. Will you have enough room to walk all around the sofa? Do you need to walk all around it or can it be pushed along a wall.
Crosley Kaplan Outdoor Metal Sofa Oatmeal/Oil Rubbed Bronze
Crosley Brand is known for superior quality. This sofa comes in 2 colors and a 5 star rating.
Nova Outdoor Sofa by Magnolia
Yakima Acacia Solid Wood Seating Group
Enough for 4 with a place for drinks, this four person sofa set comes in two colors, Gray Finish and Gray Cushions (pictured here) and Gray Finish Frame/White Cushions. This set has low seats and a nice end table for drinks or small plants. Matching table is sold separately.
Bean Bag Chairs
Patio ideas are not complete without mentioning a couple of bean bag chairs. Bean Bag Chairs are filled with recycled materials and they come in fun colors. They are form fitting to your body for ultimate relaxation. They are durable and perfect for indoor or outdoor use. These chairs are so versatile they can fit in any patio design.
West Elm Bean Bag Chairs
You will fall in love with these comfortable chairs. Made with sunbrella fabric they are both durable, spf protected fabric and come in a variety of colors.
Palermo House Dune Lounger Set
Hammocks
Some more patio ideas are to create a private space. A place where you can totally unwind and get away from it all. What better way to protect your mental health and take a load off than by slipping into a comfy hammock. Watch the trees blow in the wind, the clouds moving across the sky, take a nap, call a friend or read a book. This could be your new “happy place.”
Vivere Double Cotton Hammock with Space Saving Steel Stand, Blue Lagoon (450 lb Capacity – Premium Carry Bag Included)
Anthropologie Hammock
Pawleys Island Hammock
Rocking Chairs
Patio ideas are not complete without a rocking chair. Spend your summer on the porch in a rocking chair. They are a long time favorite tradition. Just one or a collection will bring back memories and spark a fun conversation.
GrandinROAD Rocking Chairs
World Market Rocking Adirondack Chair
Country Living Rocking Chairs
Outdoor Covered Patio Ideas: Rugs and Tables
Patio ideas start with the rug. Adding a rug grounds the space, adding warmth, texture and comfort. It subtly defines the space. Not only is it comfy for your feet but can add color, as well. Picking up a color in the rug with throw pillows will help pull a coordinated look together. Depending upon the surface you are putting the rug on, will determine if you need to place the rug under the legs of the furniture. It is best to make sure that the rug is secure with carpet tape to prevent falls or having a guest trip.
You can never go wrong with a timeless stripe. Add Perennials Performance Fabrics, and you know you’ve got something truly fabulous. Woven from the finest weather-friendly yarns, this stands up to stains, rain, and moisture to ensure immaculate style season after season – and the colors permeate to the fiber core for a vibrant beauty that won’t fade. Looks and feels elevated, not rigid, making it great for indoor and outdoor spaces.
nuLOOM Floret Transitional Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug
This colorful rug is 5×7 in size. Add to any patio for a fun bright splash of color. Pick up any color in the rug with pillows for a coordinated look.
Lulu and Georgia
Defined by an elongated trellis border, this bold rug offers a modern take on traditional tribal-inspired shapes using high-contrast designs. Crafted with synthetic fibers, it’s ideal for high-traffic areas in your home – inside or out!
Pottery Barn Outdoor Rug
This rug is good for indoors or outdoors. Boasting a traditional design, this rug brings a layer of warmth and style to the space––indoors or out. It’s woven of recycled materials that are fade resistant and easy to clean, so it can stand up to the everyday wear and tear of areas that see heavy foot traffic. Entirely handwoven of recycled materials, it’s a beautiful addition to the eco-minded home.
Small Patio Tables
Patio ideas can be anything you want to make it. Add some small Patio Tables that are essential for holding drinks, appetizer plates or whatever you need. If you’re tight on space, try a small patio table like this one.
Seadrift Side Table by Serena and Lily
Add a tray and a couple of cocktails to this handwoven wicker table. The sculptural shape, the relaxed nature of rattan, the warmth it brings to a room… Because it’s wonderfully lightweight, you can easily move it wherever you need a dash of texture.
Ballard Designs Patio Table
Suzanne Kasler Orleans Side Table is the perfect little table. Set a tray full of drinks, a plant or use it as extra seating with a pillow!
Joanna Gaines Outdoor Table
Conclusion
To conclude, we have given you outdoor covered patio ideas to creating a welcoming outdoor lounge area. First, choose a rug and then add chairs or a sofa and some accents pieces. Making use of pillows will add comfort and you will find you spend hours outside. All of these patio ideas are taylor made for you. Patio ideas can be anything you want them to be! Be sure to check out other guides, on creating great spaces for grilling and dining.
