Although most of us sacrifice outdoor living spaces to live in urban areas, it does not mean that all is lost. Forget about using your patio spaces to store your bike, rubber bins or plastic mass-produced furniture; make the most of your space with functional storage solutions, cozy seating, and of course a chic look.

As the space on most multi-family dwelling patios and even many smaller single-family homes is often minimal, you have to make the most of what you have to work with. This month, I will be giving you four examples of how you can deck out your outdoor spaces. Each of these examples will be featured at the Calgary Home + Garden Show from February 26th to March 2nd at the Roundup Centre in Calgary, so come see them in person for a closer look.

The options are endless when it comes to what you can decorate your urban patio space with. So even if your patio is the size of a prison cell that doesn’t mean that it has to look like one. Whether it be scaled back pieces that provide extra storage, fabulous planters to add some greenery to the concrete jungle, multifunctional pieces that serve double duty, or the unique items made just for patios. There are also fabulous outdoor cushions and carpets available to create and inviting space with bold hits of color.

1. Lounge Lizard
The first thing on your mind should be the size and shape of your patio. If you are like me, then you love basking in the sun but a typical condo high-rise patio won’t allow you the luxury of large pieces of furniture to stretch out on and enjoy our two months of Calgary summer. Now, remember that nude sunbathing would not be the best in this circumstance as the glass railings do not provide much protection from the wandering eyes of your neighbours across the way.  Fill the space with gorgeous planters and maybe a side table or two to hold that cocktail whilst taking in the sun.

2. Party of Four
This set up is great for the entertainer. A grouping of four chairs across from one another promotes conversation and is great for those warm summer nights. A table placed in between the chairs is a great place to put down drinks, plates, etc. No need to block the centre space with a table. Get a fabulous outdoor carpet to cover up that concrete and inject some colour. If your patio can’t accommodate four chairs, just go with a grouping of two, but remember to make the space inviting with bright bold colours.

3. Bench it up!
Another great way of maximizing space is by creating perimeter seating with benches. Whether you purchase them or create your own it’s a great way of getting a lot of seating out of your outdoor space. Creating the seating next to the railing will not only allow for ample seating (to host those fabulous parties) but creates a nice space in the centre for a coffee table. I like to incorporate planters on the corners for some nice feature plants. Don’t be afraid of using unusual plants such as gr asses or other ornamental greens for some texture and height. Again, make use of the centre space with some great outdoor flooring options.

4. Bring the indoor out
Why not extend your living space out your patio doors. Having a love seat and a side chair is perfect for this space. This intimate sitting arrangement will accommodate room for planters, side tables or an interesting sculptural piece. Be sure to add lots of pillows with fun patterns and colours to make it even more indoorsy.  Now be wary of the depth of the pieces that you choose to purchase, you don’t want over-scaled, over-sized pieces that will take over the space and leave you no room to move.
The urban patio is one that need not be left alone and used as extra storage space. There are many things you can do to make it an inviting space, one that can used as private escape or party central. A few words of wisdom: think logically and keep scale in mind and done over furnish, add some drama with cushions, pillows and last but not least, make it a space that you can take advantage of in the few short days of summer that we have! 
Happy Decorating!