22 Sneaky Storage Solutions for Your Deck, Porch or Patio

One of the best parts of summer is enjoying al fresco dining in the backyard, but it can be a challenge finding a table fit for a petite porch. While most tables and chairs would take up all the space, this foldable bistro set leaves room for other decor. Although it’s smaller than most patio tables, its handy shelves provide a place to put your serving dishes and condiments to make room on the table as you eat. The table folds up easily and has a spot to tuck away the chairs for convenient storage when you need more space outside. Available from Wayfair; $275.99.

It's hard to think of any piece of furniture that's more useful than the beloved multifunctional storage ottoman. In one portable package you get extra seating and storage for stashing blankets and towels. Available from Hayneedle; $113.41.

Tuck garden hoses, pruning scissors, or the kids' baseballs gloves into a storage bench that, while keeping its contents out of plain sight, lets your family and guests catch a breath on the generous depth of the bench seat. Available from The Home Depot; $107.69.

For a small patio or balcony, choose a deck box of appropriate proportions. At three-feet tall, this cabinet-style option is just the right height to double as a serving station. Inside, an adjustable shelf provides versatility for your storage needs. Available from Target; $139.99.

Keep the drinks chilled in the ice bucket hidden inside this accent table when you’re enjoying happy hour in the backyard. When it's time to move onto dinner, just place the lid over the bucket. Voilà! Now it looks like an ordinary side table. Available from Wayfair; $189.99.

Whether you need a spot to gather your gardening tools or a place to set your entertaining supplies, this potting bench will keep your gear organized. In addition to the work surface and multiple shelves, take advantage of the wire rack for some extra vertical storage. Available from Amazon; $154.42.

This resin wicker table looks like an ordinary outdoor side table, but when it’s time to have company over it reveals a sneaky surprise: it raises to bar-height while revealing a cooler underneath. Whether you're having a party just for two or a party for two dozen, this multifunctional table is the perfect addition for your patio. Available from Wayfair; $92.99.

This bar-height patio table is just the thing you need if you enjoy hosting backyard dinner parties. With a built-in cooler at the center of the table a chilled bottle of wine or cold brew is within reach for anyone who needs a refill. Now you can finally spend more time with company rather than having to keep refreshing everyone’s glasses with more ice. Available from Hayneedle; $1,153.

This might not be storage per se, but these Mock Rocks do keep the ugly parts of your house out of sight. The lightweight faux stones have hollow centers that fit over exposed pipes and pumps. What once were eyesores on your property now fit right in with the rest of your landscape. Available from Plow & Hearth; $119.95.

Sometimes the easiest way to handle the clutter is to hide it. For a quick cleanup, toss the pool floats, sprinkler, and furniture covers behind this simple red cedar screen. Visitors will only notice a pretty patio accent, while you know the real truth behind it. Available from Target; $133.99.

Every backyard gathering could use a few extra tables for setting out snacks, but when the party’s over you're suddenly stuck with finding a place to keep them. This set of nesting tables stack on top of each other for streamlined storage. Put them in the corner or next to a lounge chair to utilize the tallest table for everyday use, while the other two fit snuggly underneath. Available from Target; $119.69.

A fire pit is a great way to get the family together for an entertaining evening, but if you have a small patio this kind of gathering might not seem like a viable option. Rather than having to forgo the fun, select a pit that functions in more ways than one. The propane tank for this gas-powered pit is hidden away and it comes with a handy lid for the center, so you can transform it into your dining table when you don’t need the flames for warmth. Available from Amazon; $389.99.

A storage cube is a decorative pick for keeping your outdoor items safely stashed away. The tray top on this cube provides the added bonus of being able to use it as a small coffee or side table. With an aluminum frame, it’s light enough to move it around the yard to wherever you prefer. Available from Hayneedle; $87.72

Fit your deck with furniture and storage in one quick sweep with this six-piece set from Target. The wicker collection includes two chairs, two ottomans, an accent table, a fire pit, and cushions. Not only is the set fashionable, but it’s functional. The handy side table has storage below its top, perfect for keeping bug spray, sunscreen, and even a throw blanket nearby. And when you don’t have your feet kicked up on the ottomans, you can conveniently slide them under the chairs. Even the fire pit has storage for hiding the mechanics of it and a lid to convert it into a table. Available from Target; $584.99.

Who doesn't want more storage?

Even if you've got your heart set on hardwood flooring, it's worth considering the alternatives. Sometimes, materials that only look like wood can be just as good as—or even better than—the real thing. Explore your options now!