This post is in partnership with Wayfair
Skip the hassle of travel and create a staycation spot you’ll enjoy all summer. Pick one outdoor area—even a tiny deck, porch, or side yard—and turn it into a refreshing summer escape. You don’t need a big space to feel transported; a few thoughtful choices can make a small area feel like a vacation retreat.
We transformed our small bedroom deck using pieces we already had plus a couple of new finds, all from Wayfair.
Below is a tour of our Tiny Vacation Summer Destination at home, along with five practical tips to help you create your own.
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Why I Love Small Transformations
I believe in making the life you want where you already live. One of my favorite summer tricks is to capture the relaxed mood of a vacation without leaving home. Designing a staycation spot means less stress and more time to enjoy warm evenings and slow mornings.
That’s exactly what we did on our little bedroom deck with finds from Wayfair. The result is a charming, cozy space that feels like a mini getaway—no travel required.
Creating a place you don’t want to leave can inspire larger remodels, but it’s also perfect for quick, satisfying mini-makeovers you can finish in a day.
Take a peek at our Tiny Vacation Destination and read on for five simple tips to create your own.
1. Start with an Outdoor Rug
An outdoor rug instantly grounds a small space and defines your “vacation zone.” It adds softness underfoot and makes a compact deck feel finished and intentional. Choose a durable, weather-resistant rug in a pattern or neutral tone that complements your furniture to make the area feel styled and inviting.
We used a neutral patterned outdoor rug that ties the whole deck together—and our dog clearly approves.
2. Set Up a Bistro Table and Chairs
A small table with two chairs instantly creates a charming, bed-and-breakfast vibe. It’s perfect for morning coffee, a solo lunch, or tea at dusk. Embrace the intimacy of a small footprint—small spaces can feel special precisely because they are cozy and focused.
Our deck is tiny, but it functions as a destination where we can enjoy quiet moments. My son uses it as a spot to work on his laptop—just enough room for calm and concentration.
We have two matching chairs for our table, and I also brought up folding bamboo director’s chairs for variety and texture. Folding chairs are ideal for small homes because they store easily and add flexible seating when needed.
3. Gather Pretty Serveware
Keep a small selection of favorite dishes, napkins, and serving pieces close to your outdoor spot so impromptu meals feel special. A few carefully chosen items make simple gatherings feel intentional and enjoyable.
Even a rattan tray for morning coffee elevates the experience and keeps things organized.
4. Surround the Space with Planters
Use plant stands and potted plants to nestle your seating area and create a tucked-away feel. Plants add privacy and soften hard edges, and they’re an easy way to introduce greenery if the surrounding yard is sparse.
Wicker planters can be especially versatile—some designs double as serving tables when you lift the planter out and use the base as a tray. That kind of flexibility is perfect for small spaces.
Consider adding a small serving cart nearby for drinks, flowers, or a stack of summer reads to keep everything you need within reach.
A compact cart can be surprisingly handy and fits nearly anywhere on a small deck.
5. Add Colorful Flowers
Bright blooms—whether tropical, garden-style, or wild—instantly bring a summer vacation feeling to the space. A pop of coral or red looks cheerful and even attracts hummingbirds. Choose flowers and foliage that bring life and color to the deck.
Greenery adds texture, privacy, and softness, making the area more inviting and comfortable for lingering.
We’ve come to love this tiny deck as a daily retreat—the dogs enjoy it, and so do we. With a few curated touches, a small outdoor area can become a joyful destination you’ll use all summer long.
A few thoughtful pieces—an outdoor rug, comfortable seating, pretty serveware, planters, and flowers—are all it takes to create a welcoming mini getaway at home.
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