An 8-foot-wide slate patio is just the right size for two chairs and a table. A colorful palette of multitextured plants softens the edges.

Here are more outdoor spaces to inspire you.

Instant patio: It measures just 7 feet across. You can build it in a weekend for less than $200

Playful paving: Bits of tile add fresh color and movement to paths and patios

Budget patchwork patio: Dig it, stain it, and it's done in a weekend

Old patio, new look: Give tired concrete a facelift

Downlaod the planting plan