How to Pick the Right Outdoor Furniture for Apartments
Create your own outdoor oasis.
Whether you’ve got a balcony, patio, or small deck, choosing the right outdoor furniture for your apartment will help you maximize your space. When working with a smaller outdoor area, it’s important to select pieces that fit your layout, withstand the elements, and add comfort and style to your space without overwhelming it. From precise measurements to multifunctional furnishings, we’ll show you how to pick the right outdoor furniture for your apartment.
1. Start With Measurements
The first step in furnishing small spaces is taking measurements so that you know exactly what square footage you'll be working with. Take a tape measure and record the length and width of your outdoor area, taking into account any obstacles such as columns, doors, or other architectural details that may reduce the available space.
Tip!
Learn more about How to Measure Furniture for the perfect fit.
Measure Doors & Passageways Too
Measure any doors that the furniture will need to pass through, if you have to bring the furniture through your apartment to get to your balcony or patio. Though something might technically fit on your patio or balcony, it'll most likely need to pass through your apartment's front door and any doors leading to your outdoor space.
When you’re ready to plan your layout, look for small furniture sets and slim silhouettes to help balance visual interest and flow. Clunky furniture can easily overwhelm a small space and make it hard to move around freely. Stick to these smaller sets to create a space that’s comfortable and stylish.
Outdoor Apartment Conversation Sets
Small patio conversation sets include space-savvy sofas, chairs, and tables that can create a cohesive arrangement without overwhelming the space. A set with two chairs and a side table is ideal for narrow balconies, while patio sofa sets with matching chairs are better for avid entertainers.
Outdoor Apartment Dining Sets
Bistro sets feature small tables and are great for two- to four-person dining outside your apartment. Similarly, bar tables take up less floor space than typical outdoor dining tables, and the stools can often be tucked beneath the table for added space-saving.
Outdoor Apartment Lounging Furniture
If you want a sweet spot to lounge on your apartment balcony or small patio, go for a small loveseat that fits your space. Kick the relaxation up a notch by adding a hammock swing or chair hammock for the same laid-back comfort as a traditional hammock with half the space.
Outdoor furniture is made from durable, weatherproof materials so that you don't have to worry about the elements. Consider both the look of the material and the required maintenance when determining which material to choose.
Tip!
Read our Outdoor Furniture Materials Guide to learn more about each material and why it might work for your space.
Metal Patio Furniture
Metal outdoor furniture is durable yet lightweight, making it a practical choice for apartment balconies and small patios. Metals like aluminum and powder-coated steel are rust-resistant and easy to move around as needed. Lightweight metal patio furniture is convenient when it comes to rearranging, storage, and taking with you if you move.
Wood Patio Furniture
Wood outdoor furniture features sturdy construction and a natural, timeless aesthetic. Hardwoods like teak and acacia add warmth and character to your cozy outdoor space. Wood is typically heavier than metal furniture, which allows it to add stability to small outdoor spaces that experience more extreme weather.
Wicker & Rattan Patio Furniture
Wicker and rattan add classic texture and visual interest to outdoor spaces without sacrificing durability. Most modern outdoor wicker is made from synthetic fibers and metal frames, which offer a timeless look and long-lasting durability. Paired with plush outdoor cushions, wicker and rattan patio furniture is a comfortable and low-maintenance option for compact outdoor spaces.
When shopping for an apartment, choose multifunctional outdoor furniture that will help you make the most of your space.
Foldable Patio Furniture
Look for patio furniture that folds up when not in use. This will help you save patio or balcony space, while giving you the option for more seating when entertaining guests. Foldable outdoor furniture also makes it easy to store pieces inside over the winter or when a storm is on the way, making your furniture last longer.
Patio Furniture With Storage
Look for outdoor furniture that features hidden storage compartments to keep your small outdoor space neat and tidy. Go for an outdoor ottoman with internal storage to stash portable lighting, bug spray, or a few throw blankets to keep you cozy on chilly nights.
Garden Accessories
Common yard accessories like garden stools and lanterns can double as useful patio accents. Garden stools make a great side table to place your reading material or beverage. Garden lanterns can serve as ambient patio lighting so you can enjoy your outdoor space even after the sun has set.
After selecting the perfect outdoor furniture for your apartment, it's time to add the final details that'll tie the space together.
Small Outdoor Area Rugs
Roll out a patterned outdoor rug to anchor a dining space or add softness to your seating area. Stick to a small outdoor area rug that leaves some tiles or stone visible to add cozy vibes without overwhelming your space.
Tip!
Read our guide How to Choose the Best Outdoor Rug Sizes to find tips that'll help you pick the right rug dimensions.
Planters & Potted Plants
Greenery can make your outdoor space feel more inviting. Bring a bit of nature to the space with a series of potted plants, or top your outdoor dining table with a vase of fresh flowers.
Decor for Apartment Patios & Balconies
Adding decor to your apartment’s outdoor space is a renter-friendly way to put a personal touch on your patio or balcony. Choose decor that fits your desired theme or aesthetic. Avoid heavy or clunky pieces of decor to keep this space from looking cluttered, and to keep things easy to move around and store inside come winter or bad weather.
Tip!
Say goodbye to nosy neighbors with our guide Clever Apartment Patio Ideas for Privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What outdoor furniture works best for apartments?
Outdoor furniture for apartments should be compact, easy to move, and should fit comfortably on balconies, patios, and small decks. Bistro sets, small loveseats, folding chairs, nesting tables, and lightweight lounge seating are great options for small outdoor apartment spaces.
2. What materials are best for outdoor apartment furniture?
Durable, lightweight, and weather-resistant materials are best for apartments with outdoor spaces. Metal outdoor furniture is a great lightweight and durable option, while wicker offers texture and long-lasting performance.
3. How can I make outdoor furniture more functional in a small apartment space?
Look for multifunctional furniture, such as storage ottomans, folding tables and chairs, and garden accessories that double as patio accents. Choosing furniture and decor that has multiple functions is the best way to make the most of your apartment's outdoor space.
