Outdoor space design: patios, decks, and balconies that book

Category: Design & Furnishing

By: Tony Russo

Posted: 2026-01-15T13:09:51.600Z

I have a decent-sized patio (12x16 ft) that I'm currently using as storage overflow. I know outdoor spaces photograph well and I see listings with gorgeous patios that must attract bookings. How important is outdoor space for bookings in your experience? And what's the best way to set one up for an STR?

Reply by David Okafor:

In my market (Austin, TX), outdoor space is the #2 most searched amenity after pools. A well-designed patio can increase your nightly rate by 15-25% based on my testing across 3 properties. **My patio formula (works for any 10x12+ space):** **Seating area ($300-500):** - Outdoor sofa or loveseat ($200-350 from Walmart or Target) — weather-resistant wicker/aluminum - 2 accent chairs or sling chairs ($50-100) - Outdoor throw pillows in bold colors ($30-50) **Dining area ($200-400):** - Bistro table + 2-4 chairs ($150-300 depending on size) — great for morning coffee and evening drinks - Outdoor tablecloth or placemats ($15) **Ambiance ($100-200):** - String lights ($15-30) — INSTANT vibe upgrade. Hang them zig-zag above the patio. - Outdoor rug ($40-60) - 2-3 potted plants or planters ($40-60) - Citronella candles ($10) — functional and atmospheric **Grill area ($100-400):** - Weber Spirit gas grill ($350) or a basic charcoal kettle ($70) - Small grilling station/table ($30) **Total: $700-1,500** for a complete patio transformation. The string lights are the hero element for photos. Shoot at dusk with the lights on and your patio will look absolutely magical in listing photos. The ROI in terms of booking conversion is easily 10x the cost.

Reply by Anika Sharma:

After adding an outdoor space to all my listings, the one amenity that generates the most REVIEWS is the **fire pit.** A propane fire pit table ($200-350 on Amazon, search "Outland Living fire pit table") combines a coffee table with a fire feature. It's: - Safe (propane, no sparks, adjustable flame) - Easy to use (just turn the knob) - Year-round usable (unlike a grill) - Instagram-worthy at night "We loved sitting by the fire pit!" appears in about 30% of my reviews. For a $300 one-time investment, the review-generation ROI is unmatched.

Reply by Michael Thompson:

Quick wins for balconies (smaller spaces): - Bistro table + 2 folding chairs ($60-100) — Wayfair has cute sets - Wall-mounted planter boxes ($30) — add greenery without losing floor space - String lights or LED lanterns ($15-25) - One statement plant (large potted palm or fiddle leaf fig, $30-50) - Weather-resistant outdoor rug ($25) Even a tiny 4x6 balcony can be transformed into a "private outdoor retreat" with $150-200 in investment. Photograph it at sunset and it'll be one of your best listing photos.