Small patios are both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, they provide a spot for relaxation outdoors, which is a luxury in itself. However, their petite size makes design difficult – requiring you to be extra selective with decor choices in order to make the most of the space.
Having recently moved into an apartment with a small patio of my own, I’m all too familiar with the challenge. Most outdoor furniture feels oversized for the space, yet without it, the patio appears stark and unfinished. With spring and summer just around the corner, I’m keen to make the most of this outdoor area – but first, I need to find the right small-space patio furniture that brings style and function without overwhelming the footprint.
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IKEA's TÄRNÖ set includes a table and two chairs – all of which are foldable for convenient storage. Made from acacia wood and powder-coated steel, this set is especially durable for outdoor use. Here, it's shown with white square-shaped seat cushions, however the set is also sold with blue polka-dot cushions, white round cushions, or no cushions at all.
IKEA's TÄRNÖ set doesn't take up too much space, making it a convenient choice for small patios.
If you thought your patio, small backyard, or small deck was simply too tiny for any outdoor furniture, think again. IKEA's TÄRNÖ bistro set is compact and practical – ideal for even the smallest of spaces.
Unlike traditionally large and heavy outdoor furniture, this set is small, lightweight, and easy to move. Not only that, but it's foldable by design, meaning you can collapse it when not in use to allow for more room around your outdoor space.
When it comes to outdoor furniture, durability is arguably more important than style (which is hard for me to say as a Style Editor). Luckily, IKEA's TÄRNÖ set has both. Since the chairs and the table are crafted from solid acacia wood and feature powder-coated steel frames, they're designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Plus, they're simply stylish to look at. As a set, this table and chairs can create a cozy, French garden-inspired look on your patio, even if you live in a busy city like me.
And if you're worried about comfort (especially considering how small this set is), just refer to the 1000+ 5-star reviews that speak to exactly that. 'I bought this about a month ago after looking for a small outside table and chairs for a while. It fits perfectly on my small balcony. It is more comfortable than I thought it would be, especially as it was way cheaper than other sets I was looking at,' one reviewer wrote.
Consider folding one (or both) of the chairs from the TÄRNÖ set to create even more space on your patio for entertaining.
This chic bistro set can help you take advantage of your patio space in more ways than one. It's the perfect spot to enjoy your coffee each morning, and an even better spot to end each day with a glass of wine. Although the table itself is relatively small, there's enough room for two dinner plates and drink glasses, so consider this set the perfect small outdoor dining idea for two.
Between its looks, durability, practicality, and price (less than $150 for this is a steal), this TÄRNÖ bistro set from IKEA is a must-have for small outdoor spaces. And with the spring and summer seasons rapidly approaching, there's no better time to buy it. This way, when the first warm weather day rolls around, you'll be able to soak up the sun in style from your conveniently furnished outdoor space.
More Bistro Sets from IKEA
Aside from the TÄRNÖ bistro set, IKEA has a handful of other table and chair sets that are just as practical for small spaces. Check out a few more options, below.
Elevate your outdoor space with this chic bistro set. From IKEA's LÄCKÖ line of wrought iron outdoor furniture, this set is meant to create a romantic look on your patio while maintaining utmost durability for outdoor use. Although this set isn't foldable like the TÄRNÖ bistro set, it's just as practical for small spaces since the chairs can be stacked when not in use. And if you'd like to create a cohesive look on your patio, pair this set with the LÄCKÖ Shelf and the LÄCKÖ Loveseat.
IKEA's NÄMMARÖ set is slightly larger than the TÄRNÖ set, so if space allows, it's a highly practical choice. Not only is this outdoor set effortlessly stylish, but it's incredibly sturdy, too. Since it doesn't fold away, it might not be as convenient for small patios, but it's nonetheless a chic choice. Plus, its acacia wood material makes it a particularly durable outdoor furniture set.
If your patio is really short on space, this is the table and chair set for you. Since it's designed as one half, this table takes up hardly any space and fits flush against a wall. Plus, when not in use, it conveniently folds downwards to allow for more space. Its matching chair can also fold away so not as to clutter your patio space. Since both of these pieces are made from durable acacia wood, they're designed to withstand outdoor conditions with ease.
Aside from the TÄRNÖ bistro set, IKEA happens to have lots of other outdoor decorating ideas that are especially helpful for small outdoor spaces. Just look at the NÄMMARÖ Kitchen Unit, for instance – this dedicated work station for your outdoor space is sleek, practical, and just as convenient as the countertops in your kitchen.
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