7 outdated rules to ignore when designing a small patio – experts say ditching them will transform your space

A patio with a rattan garden chair and a matching outdoor sofa.

When it comes to working with a small space in your home or garden, you'll usually hear a list of dos and don'ts you should be following.

There's no shortage of small patio and garden ideas to help you make the most of a compact area. Here's a list of rules to make your small outdoor space feel bigger.