Backyard Deck Ideas on a Budget: Budget-Friendly Outdoor Furniture
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Creating a beautiful outdoor space doesn’t require a sprawling backyard or a massive renovation budget. Whether you’re working with a compact rooftop like ours or a small wooden deck, smart design and budget-friendly furniture can make all the difference.
Why We Chose the Veradek Brixton Side Table for Our Small Backyard (Rooftop Patio)
We live in a townhouse, so we don't actually have a backyard. But we do have a rooftop patio that we get plenty of use out of. The problem? It's quite small. We use it so much that I wanted to enjoy the same cozy, stylish outdoor atmosphere that a well-designed backyard provides. Our "backyard oasis" features a simple deck that is very narrow, so everything we purchase must be thoughtfully selected and ideally, do double duty.
Enter the Veradek Brixton Outdoor Side Table—a versatile, budget-conscious addition that instantly elevated our small-space setup.
Key Features We Love:
Hidden Storage: The interior holds throw pillows, gardening tools, or outdoor games—perfect for small patios where storage is at a premium.
Removable Tray Top: The lid lifts off and doubles as a tray, great for serving drinks or snacks.
Modern, Elegant Look: It complements minimalist and modern decor styles beautifully.
All-Weather Durability: Made from fade-resistant plastic, it stands up to sun and rain.
Affordable Price Point: It looks high-end but costs much less than similar designer pieces.
Our Rooftop Deck Setup: How to Make a Small Outdoor Space Feel Like a Backyard
Though our home doesn’t have a traditional backyard, we wanted the same vibe you’d get from a backyard deck—inviting, functional, and stylish. With a few intentional choices, we made our urban rooftop feel like a peaceful backyard escape.
Here’s how we made the most of our small outdoor area:
1. Invest in Multi-Purpose Furniture for Your Deck or Patio
Look for furniture that does double duty, like our deck box/side table. Ottomans with hidden storage, benches that serve as planters, or collapsible bistro sets help save money and space.
2. Layer Textures with Outdoor Rugs and Cushions
Outdoor rugs and cushions can soften hard surfaces and create a cozier atmosphere. We chose neutral tones with subtle patterns to keep it calm and modern, but you can absolutely choose brighter tones if you like a pop of color.
3. If You Can't Landscape, Use Vertical Space and Planters
Even if you can’t plant in the ground, you can still enjoy greenery. Vertical planters and railing boxes are both great options if you're short on space. If you have more vertical room than we do, you can also install a pergola and grow plants and flowers up it. We opted to add a few strategically placed small floor planters in the corners of our outdoor deck to add some warmth.
4. Outdoor Living Room: Stick to a Simple Color Palette
Think of your back deck or patio as a living room; just as you would indoors, keep a streamlined color scheme. We chose beige, olive green, and black as our main colors for our outdoor area, but you can choose anything that resonates with you. Choosing a color scheme makes the space instantly feel cohesive and calm, and the black color of the side table blends seamlessly with this palette.
5. Add Affordable Lighting
We strung up affordable outdoor string lights and also got a few portable lanterns that we can move around the roof as the sun starts to set. They both create a soft glow that makes the space feel magical at night.
6. Don't forget a Fire Pit
No outdoor living space is complete without a fire pit; during the warmer months, we are known to use ours daily. Our deck space is limited, so we chose one with a small footprint to maximize our space.
Outdoor Living and Budget Backyard Deck Ideas That Work Anywhere
Whether you're decorating a deck, patio, or rooftop, here are some additional ways to stay stylish without overspending:
Budget-Friendly Deck Design and Patio Ideas:
Choose furniture that offers storage and style
Incorporate string lights or lanterns for ambiance
Add potted plants or vertical gardens
Use inexpensive outdoor rugs to define zones
DIY a privacy screen or lattice wall with climbing plants
Opt for foldable or stackable furniture for tight spaces
Repurpose indoor accessories for outdoor use
These tips apply to any small space, even if you’re working with a rooftop terrace instead of a traditional deck.
How This Side Table Became the Star of Our Rooftop
What surprised us most about the Veradek Brixton Series Side Table was how practical it turned out to be. We originally bought it just for its looks, but it now functions as a:
Coffee table
Serving tray
Blanket and pillow storage
Visual anchor for our patio layout
And the fact that it was under $100 makes it an even smarter choice if you're seeking affordable outdoor furniture.
Patio and Deck Ideas on a Budget
We may not have a backyard, but our rooftop patio now has all the charm and function of a budget-friendly deck thanks to thoughtful pieces like the Veradek Brixton Side Table.
Whether you're working with a small backyard deck, a balcony, or even a tiny patio, this is proof you don’t need a massive investment to make your outdoor space shine.
As always, I didn’t stop there. I’ve rounded up the best Wayfair finds to help you decorate your home on a budget. I found an affordable arched cabinet, a modern organic outdoor rug (that I happen to own and love), scalloped ruffle bowls, a budget-friendly fire pit, and so much more.
Looking for more backyard deck ideas on a budget? Check out my full rooftop patio tour and more of my affordable home decor and fashion finds.
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FAQs: Backyard Deck and Patio Ideas on a Budget FAQs
Q1: What are some affordable decor ideas to upgrade a backyard or small deck?
Start with multi-use furniture like the Veradek side table, add vertical gardens, landscaping, outdoor lighting (think string lights), and textiles like rugs and cushions. These small touches go a long way to improve your outdoor living without breaking the bank.
Q2: Is the Veradek Brixton Side Table durable for outdoor use?
Yes. It’s made from weather-resistant plastic that won’t warp, crack, or fade. We’ve left ours outside through sun and rain with no issues.
Q3: How do I make a wood deck feel cozy without spending much?
If you're looking to build a new deck, consider building your own DIY deck. Take a walk outside to get the feel of your outdoor space and then get inspired by looking for design ideas and landscaping ideas online. By doing the world yourself, you'll just be playing for deck boards (pro tip: look at building a composite deck to save even more money) and materials and you can make your deck exactly how you want it.
If diy projects aren't your thing or your deck is already built, work with the natural wood! Use layered textiles, add soft lighting, and focus on functional furniture with clean lines that really bring out the wood tones. Keep clutter out by using pieces with built-in storage like this side table.
Q4: Can rooftop patios be styled like backyard decks?
Absolutely. With smart space planning and the right accessories, a rooftop can look just as lush and inviting as a large backyard. Focus on greenery, soft seating, and ambient light. to make the space feel cozy.
Q5: Where can I buy affordable outdoor furniture with storage for a simple backyard makeover?
Wayfair is a great place to start. That’s where we found the Veradek Brixton Side Table, which offers storage, style, and great value. They have many budget friendly patio options like decking material, awnings, pavers, and patio furniture to transform your outdoor space. Your patio or backyard doesn't have to blow your budget; with a little planning, you can absolutely elevate your outdoor space on a tight budget.
