Owners of small outdoor areas can all relate to the struggles that come with the modest square footage: angling chairs just right to get a sliver of sun, bumping knees with your partner while you lean over your meals, your deck becoming a full-blown jungle when you've only added three plants. But leaving outdoor areas bare means you can't fully take advantage of having your own personal space outside, so in comes a patio set for small spaces.
We've tested over 20 patio furniture sets in our own backyards through the years and learned that customization and portability are essential when curating a small outdoor space. If you love an outdoor sectional, look for a modular option with multiple configurations.
Most patio sets suitable for small spaces include two chairs and one table. Separate chairs and tables allow you to add and remove pieces as needed. Another great option is to look for cupholders and built-in tables to save even more space.
Portable furniture allows you to store your pieces, so you can enjoy your tiny deck or patio in multiple different ways. Look for lightweight options that are easy to bring to and from your space or foldable tables and chairs that fit easily in a garage or closet. With the right pieces of furniture, a small patch of grass or concrete slab that you've been giving the evil eye over the past few months can become a comfortable outdoor living area.
Editor's Note: This list was updated in July 2024 after testing four additional patio sets for small spaces.
Best Overall
Devoko Wicker Patio Conversation Set
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Weather-resistant wicker
Quick and easy assembly
Impressive weight limit
Can't machine wash cushion covers
If you have a small patio, you might shy away from large patio chairs with armrests and high backs, but this small-space-friendly and tester-approved set from Devoko proves that you can have it all. The set comes with two wicker chairs with a durable steel frame and a glass-top table to place a couple of drinks or a potted plant. The glass top also adds extra stability, rather than trying to balance cups on the woven wicker.
We found these chairs extremely comfortable for everyone using them, with an impressive weight limit of 330 pounds, while the curved back added extra support. The weather-resistant wicker can easily withstand rainstorms, showing no signs of damage during months of testing. Even the cushions resisted water damage and dried easily in the sun.
While the cushion covers are not machine washable, if they get dirty, you can remove them and spot-clean them, which we found very effective. However, water can pool under the glass-top table, so we recommend removing the glass top during extremely severe rain.
Assembly took just about an hour since all of the screws were the same, so it was easy to grab and go as you built. For such an affordable price, we cannot recommend this sturdy and comfortable set enough.
After six months of testing, we found this set continues to withstand summer sun and rain extremely well. The wicker is easy to wipe down and clean if it gets wet or dirty. However, we decided to continue to enjoy the set without cushions after forgetting to bring them inside during storms. Still, we love the set without the cushions and recommend keeping them dry to increase their longevity. There is no visible wear and tear on the chairs and table themselves, so we stand by this option as our best overall pick.
Dimensions: 21.5 x 19.5 x 33.5 inches (chairs), 15.8 x 15.8 17.8 inches (table)︱Material: Wicker, steel︱Seating capacity: Two
Best Budget
Grand Patio Outdoor Folding Bistro Set
No assembly required
Impressive weight capacity
Lightweight yet sturdy
Not as comfy as other chairs
Bistro sets, like this one from Grand Patio, which we loved during testing, are a winning combination of cute and useful. They don't take up too much space, and many can fold up. They also allow owners of small patios to still spend time outside without having to stand or resort to foldable camping chairs.
While lightweight, the table and chairs felt extremely sturdy during testing and did not budge during intense wind and rain. The powder-coated steel frame ensures the set won't rust over time, even after months in the rain. It's also extremely easy to clean with a damp cloth, even when covered with pollen or debris.
Chairs with metal slats aren't always the most comfortable, but you can always add an outdoor cushion for a plush place to sit. Though they are foldable, each chair has an impressive 330-pound weight capacity. The table felt taller than other bistro sets we tested, making it perfect for outdoor dining. The best part? There's no assembly required. Everything arrives in one box. Just unfold all of the pieces and start enjoying.
Dimensions: 23 x 19.5 X 32 inches (chairs), 23.6 x 28 inches (table)︱Material: Steel︱Seating capacity: Two
Fits two adults
Comfortable, water-resistant cushions
Quick assembly
Light cushions get dirty easily
If you're looking to lounge with a loved one, a loveseat is a fantastic choice, and we fell in love when testing the Better Homes & Gardens Willow Sage All-Weather Wicker Outdoor Loveseat and Ottoman Set (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by The Spruce's parent company, Dotdash Meredith). The loveseat and ottoman combo creates the perfect ambiance for cuddling up under the stars, and the thick cushions offer just enough support for hours of comfort. The wicker construction adds a coastal element, while the steel frame ensures durability.
While the light cushions ensure they don't get too hot in the sun, they do get dirty very easily. The cushions are fade and water-resistant, which we found to be true when testing during rainstorms. While they will resist water damage and dry easily in the sun, it might be a good idea to store them indoors during inclement weather. Another plus is that assembly was super easy and took under 30 minutes for two people.
Though it's not recommended by the manufacturer, we found success in removing the cushion cover and washing them in the washing machine. As with all light cushions, there were still a few stains left over, but this was the natural wear and tear of the set. We found that the washing machine removed around 80 percent of the staining. After six months of use outdoors, the wicker frame looked and performed like new.
Dimensions: 29.1 x 51 x 28.7 inches (loveseat), 42.9 x 19.5 11.2 inches (ottoman)︱Material: Wicker, steel, polyester︱Seating capacity: Two
Best Colorful
The Pioneer Woman Goldie Garden Bistro Set
Easy and quick assembly
Comfortable and sturdy chairs
Classic design
Only one color option
We tested The Pioneer Woman's Goldie 3-Piece Cast Aluminum Garden Bistro Set and loved the bright teal shade and classic latticed pattern. Sometimes, small bistro set chairs can be wobbly and uncomfortable, but these felt sturdy and secure. While the table isn't large enough for a whole tablescape, it's perfect for a small breakfast or happy hour.
The assembly only took 30 minutes, which we loved. Adding to the convenience of this set, the chairs and table are lightweight enough to move around your space whenever you want, but the aluminum construction remains very durable and resistant to wind and rain. While we love the style of this set, we do wish that it came in more colors to tailor to everyone's taste.
When purchasing brightly colored outdoor furniture, there's always a fear that it will tarnish or change color in the elements. Luckily, we have been using this vibrant blue set in the rain, sun, and snow for six months and have noticed zero discoloration. There is slight chipping on the chair legs, but otherwise, there are no signs of damage or rusting.
Dimensions: 23.6 x 26.5 inches (table), 16 x 19.5 35 inches (chairs)︱Material: Aluminum︱Seating capacity: Two
Best Rocking Chairs
Better Homes & Gardens Roxbury Rocking Chair Set
Large, comfortable seats
Quick-drying cushions
Durable and sturdy pieces
Survived multiple thunderstorms
Less supportive back cushion
An easy way to spice up a basic small patio set is by getting one that rocks. These outdoor rocking chairs from the Better Homes & Gardens Roxbury Set certainly don't look like their classic wooden counterparts. They're modernized and sleek—but they still have a comforting rhythmic motion and comfortable weatherproof cushions. Plus, they survived multiple thunderstorms during testing without an issue.
The rust-resistant steel chairs and table looked brand new after weeks of sun and rain on our patio. Plus, the cushions, made with fade-resistant fabric, dried within a day after being completely soaked during storms. The included table, though small, felt heavy and sturdy even in high winds. The only time we brought the furniture indoors was during a hurricane warning. Otherwise, we were confident the patio set was sturdy and weatherproof.
When testing with individuals over 6 feet tall, these rocking chairs felt comfortable for hours. Though they have a low profile, the rocking mechanism ensures you can always place your feet on the floor and get in and out of the chairs easily. The seat itself felt wide enough for everyone who tried these chairs during our testing period, while the armrests added an extra layer of comfort.
One thing we didn't love is that the back cushion didn't feel as plush or supportive as the chair cushion. We recommend adding a weatherproof lumbar or throw pillow for extra support. We also found the assembly process a bit difficult and recommend asking a friend to help out to expedite the process. One thing we suggest is attaching the back of the chairs before the arms. Otherwise, we love this pick for an attractive, small-space-friendly patio set with a touch of movement involved.
Dimensions: 27.8 x 38 x 30.7 inches (chairs), 20 x 20 x 20 inches (table)︱Material: Steel, fabric︱Seating capacity: Two
Best Bar Set
Sundale 2-Person Square Outdoor Dining Set
Comfortable seats with lumbar support
Water pooled on cushions
Durable wicker frames
Tall table with two shelves
Difficult and time-consuming assembly
Like with indoor spaces, small outdoor areas can be made to feel bigger when you work vertically. A taller set, like a cocktail table and stools, doesn't take up as much width but still makes it easy to enjoy a drink or bite to eat outside. We love this option from Sundale that fits perfectly in our 4 x 6-foot balcony with room to walk around.
The tall outdoor chairs were extremely comfortable, with a cushion and lumbar pillow for optimal back support. We spent hours lounging on this patio set without any discomfort. Plus, the chair felt equally comfortable with people of varying heights and weights. Though narrow, each chair can hold 260 pounds. We also love that the tall table is the perfect height to rest your drink and has an additional shelf for storing outdoor party essentials.
The entire set weighs just over 40 pounds, so we were worried about its stability during inclement weather. Luckily, the chairs and table didn't budge during thunderstorms with high winds. The wicker chair and table frames are extremely durable and an excellent choice for outdoor furniture. We were impressed to find that water pooled on top of the cushions and easily shook off for quick and easy drying after storms.
Be warned that we found assembling this set rather difficult and time-consuming. None of the pieces were labeled, which made the process more frustrating. We think two people are required for the process, both for holding pieces together as they're assembling and for doubling the brain power involved in building the set. However, once it's built, this is a durable and space-saving set we love for year-round use.
Dimensions: 21.5 x 20.5 x 51 inches (stools), 19.3 x 19.3 x 35.8 inches (table)︱Material: Wicker, fabric︱Seating capacity: Two
Best Design
Cosco Modern Nesting Outdoor Bistro Set
Chairs nest within the table
Firm yet supportive cushions with washable cover
Durable and sturdy steel frame
Easy assembly with clear instructions
Not the best set for taller individuals
Glass tabletop shows fingerprints
You can't beat the nesting design of this bistro set from Cosco for small patios. The slated metal chairs fit perfectly under the simple modern table, saving space and looking stylish in the process. During testing, we loved the height of the table and chairs, making this set perfect for working from home, dinner with a partner, or lounging in the sun.
The cushions offer ample support for hours of sitting on this patio set. Plus, they have removable covers for easy cleaning in the washing machine. We haven't had to clean the cushions yet, as they've shown no signs of fading or staining, even through various storms. They felt firm and supportive without ever losing their shape or becoming uncomfortable.
The metal table has a glass tabletop, which is prone to showing fingerprints but super easy to clean with an all-purpose spray and microfiber cloth. Plus, the black colorway won't show dirt or stains as easily as a lighter color. While the set didn't feel particularly heavy, we were pleasantly surprised to find that the chairs and table didn't move at all through thunderstorms and high winds.
We had a delightful time assembling this set: everything was clearly labeled and easy to understand and execute. While we think you could assemble it solo, having a friend nearby was helpful. One thing to note is that we don't think this would be the most comfortable set for taller individuals because of the low back height of the chairs. Still, it's an awesome set for modern design lovers or those looking for something durable to spruce up a small deck.
Dimensions: 25.6 x 20.9 x 19.3 inches (chairs), 29 x 23.7 x 40 inches (table)︱Material: Metal, glass, polyester︱Seating capacity: Two
Best Wicker
Hampton Bay 3-Piece Wicker Bistro Set
Breathable materials
Comes with cushions
Attractive design
Comfortable chairs
Can't remove cushion covers to clean them
Designers of modern patios will like this combination that sits right between a bistro set and cocktail table in terms of look and size. The Hampton Bay Haymont 3-Piece Steel Wicker Outdoor Patio Bistro Set sits higher than a classic set of chairs but still feels cozy thanks to the cushions and armrests. While we didn't personally test this set, we appreciate that the sleek colors and sharp edges are balanced out by the cushy seats and rounded woven tops, and the colors are no doubt a great pick for minimalist design lovers.
The interwoven rope seating allows for airflow, which is extremely valuable on hot summer days. While this chair style definitely takes up more space, it's worth it for the added comfort and style. Plus, the neutral colors pair well with other patio furniture and decorations. Unfortunately, the cushions don't have a removable cover, but they can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth. The brand also offers a 3-year limited warranty in case any pieces get lost or damaged.
Dimensions: 25.3 x 25.3 x 43.9 inches (chairs), 27.6 x 27.6 x 38.6 inches (table)︱Material: Interwoven rope, metal︱Seating capacity: Two
Best Stacking
Flash Furniture Outdoor Patio Dining Set
Spacious table
Chairs arrive fully assembled
352 pound weight capacity
Table is difficult to assemble
Many standard outdoor dining tables are too large for small patios, but this aluminum set from Flash Furniture gives a classic look without taking up ample space. Card games and meals shared with friends can successfully take place thanks to the fairly spacious tempered glass surface that provides more room than an accent or side table.
The lightweight chairs feature a slatted style to keep you cool and comfortable, while the cross braces also add extra stability to accommodate an impressive 352 pounds. Another plus is that the chairs stack for easy, space-saving storage during the off-season. While the chairs come fully assembled, it can be a bit difficult to assemble the table correctly, but it's worth the extra energy for a stable and stylish patio set.
Dimensions: 21.5 x 24 X 28.5 inches (chairs), 31.5 x 31.5 x 28 inches (table)︱Material: Interwoven rope, metal︱Seating capacity: Four
Final Verdict
For a comfortable set that won't take up too much space, our pick for the best patio set for a small space is the Devoko 3-Piece Patio Furniture Set. The patio chairs are made from durable wicker, feature a curved back for ample support, and come with cushions for added comfort. If you want a pop of color in your outdoor space, look no further than the best colorful Goldie 3-Piece Cast Aluminum Garden Bistro Set from The Pioneer Woman. The bright teal set features a classic latticed design and feels sturdy enough to hang out on all day long.
How We Tested the Patio Sets for Small Spaces
We've tested over 20 patio furniture sets through the years, including several options suitable for small decks and patios. We used each set in our own backyards and evaluated each on a variety of factors.
- Assembly: After the sets arrived at our homes, we recorded how long it took from the time we ordered them until they were delivered, where on our property they were delivered, and how many boxes they arrived in. We noted if the instructions were easy or difficult to follow and if the hardware was included.
- Comfort and Durability: Over several weeks or months, we used these patio sets as part of our daily outdoor time, even inviting friends and family members to test their comfort. We noted how sturdy the chairs and tables were, how comfortable the chairs felt after hours of use, and if the entire set felt sturdy. We noted any storms we experienced during this time, how well the table and chairs withstood the rain and winds, and if there was any chipping, warping, fading, or any other damage. For all of the chairs that included cushions, we noted how they fared in the rain, and how long they took to dry.
- Overall Value: After testing each furniture set, we compared it to other sets we've tested to determine if the price is justified. Every set we included is priced fairly for the style and quality.
- Long-Term Testing: To test how well these sets hold up over prolonged use and exposure to the elements, we tested these sets for three to six months after the initial testing. We then reported any changes to the appearance or comfort of the sets.
What to Look For in Patio Sets for Small Spaces
Size
The biggest consideration when furnishing a small space is size. You must first measure your space to determine how large a patio set you can fit on your deck or patio. Be sure to leave extra room for chairs to pull in and out and for people to move around. Luckily, there are options on this list for the smallest balconies to patios with a bit of extra room for a sectional or dining table.
Also, when considering size, look into the set's special features, such as folding chairs, as seen in the best budget Grand Patio Bistro Set, or benches that slide under the table for a compact look. Another example is our best stacking set, the Flash Furniture 5-Piece Patio Dining Set. These features also decrease the size needed when storing your set during winter, which is an important consideration for anyone who doesn't plan to leave their set outdoors all year long.
Seating Capacity
Consider who will be using your space most to determine the right seating capacity for you. Families may opt for a patio set that can accommodate up to four people, like our best stacking set, the Flash Furniture 5-Piece Patio Dining Set. What's great about a set with benches or a sectional is that for little kids and smaller adults, you can often fit more people than what's listed online.
Most often, when shopping for small patio sets, you'll see bistro sets with two chairs and a small table, like our best wicker pick, the Hampton Bay Haymont 3-Piece Steel Wicker Outdoor Bistro Set. These are great for couples or small families who don't plan to use the set all at once. These often take up minimal space but remain comfortable and convenient.
Material
Since you're searching for outdoor furniture, the material you choose is extremely important. Look for long-lasting, weatherproof materials that won't tarnish when exposed to rain or sun—consider teak outdoor furniture, for example. Wicker or rattan, seen in our best overall pick, the Devoko 3-Piece Patio Furniture Set, is a common choice for outdoor furniture because it holds up well in the elements.
For wood furniture, look for wood that's been weather-treated so it won't warp over time or when exposed to water. You can also choose to weather-treat your wooden furniture yourself to ensure its longevity.
Most options on this list also feature a metal or steel frame, which adds stability to your furniture. Oftentimes, steel is powder-coated, like in our best rocking chairs, the Better Homes & Gardens Roxbury Steel 3-Piece Cushion Rocking Chair Set, which means it won't rust over time, even if it gets wet which is extremely important for outdoor use.
Design
While space-saving is most important in small spaces, you don't want to sacrifice style. Fortunately, the options for small patio sets span modern, rustic, and minimalistic design styles, so you'll find something you love. Look for a set that comes in multiple colors, like our best budget pick, the Grand Patio Bistro Set, to match the existing pieces in your outdoor space or add accent cushions to a piece you love.
Also, look for special features in the design of your patio set. This could be a storage shelf on an included table (like on the table of our best bar set, the Sundale 2-Person Square Outdoor Dining Set with Cushions), a hole for a patio umbrella, a removable cushion cover that's easy to wash (like our best design pick, the Cosco Modern Nesting Outdoor Bistro Set), or a texture on your chair that keeps you cool through the summer.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Julia Fields, an associate editor for The Spruce, covering all things patio furniture. For this article, she scoured popular brands and retailers for a variety of patio sets that fit in small outdoor spaces, considering the size, material, design, and seating capacity of each. She also added products we tested in our own backyards across the country over multiple weeks, evaluating the comfort, design, ease of assembly and cleaning, durability, and overall value of patio dining sets and outdoor seating.