Traditional Brick Patio with a Wrought-Iron Bistro Set

A bistro set is the right scale for a small patio, and a traditional one in wrought iron will outlast several trendier sets. Place it slightly off center so there is a clear path to the door or gate. Then fill the edges with pots in a single flower color; red geraniums against old brick are a classic pairing and bloom all summer with regular deadheading. Use terracotta pots in three or four sizes and cluster them in odd numbers, tallest at the back. Repeat the white of the table in a window box or the trim, and the whole courtyard feels connected.