Small gardens can still be great places to spend time outdoors. You can transform your small garden into a great place to entertain, relax and exercise. When designing your garden, consider how the space will be used and what your goals are. By combining creativity with functionality, you’ll be able to create a garden which is both lovely and convenient for you. Here are some of the best ideas to take advantage of:
1. Keep It Simple
If you have limited space, don’t try to cram in too many different elements. A cluttered garden will make its small size seem even smaller. Instead of trying to do too much, keep your design simple. Pick a few key elements including plantings, benches, and focal points and let those elements create a cohesive look.
2. Create a Focal Point
Focal points can help draw the eye to areas where you’re particularly proud of. You can create a focal point with just about anything, from statuary to a cluster of plantings. It can also be an interesting architectural feature like a bistro set with a table and chairs. A well-chosen focal point can help transform your small garden into a much larger, more interesting space.
3. Use Vertically
By using the vertical space in your garden, it will be a little less crowded. A vertical garden is a great option if you have limited space. There are many different ideas to choose from, such as creating a wall or using a trellis. You can even hang small wicker baskets from an arbor or pergola. Vertical planters can allow you to plant a wide variety of plants without using up much space.
4. Opt for Built-in Seating
Built-in seating is a great idea if you want to maximize the space in your garden. Instead of using up precious space with separate chairs and benches, consider incorporating built-in seating. This can be done with a raised deck or planter boxes which double as seating. If you have a wall, you can have a low wall built around the perimeter of your garden, with an additional bench seating area. This can make your garden feel more like an extension of your home.
5. Add Some Pops of Color
Even if your garden is mostly neutral, you can still add some unexpected color with plants. Look for plants that are brightly colored with shades of pink, red, or blue. You can also add pops of color with planters, cushions, and decor. Remember, just because your garden is small doesn’t mean it has to be dull.
6. Incorporate an Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens are great for small gardens. They allow you to create a useful and inviting area that you can use for cooking, entertaining, and relaxing. You can also use an outdoor kitchen to create a unique dining experience. Instead of traditional outdoor dining tables and chairs, consider using a bar table and stools. This can make the area seem much larger than it really is.
7. Make Use of Reflective Surfaces
Reflective surfaces can make your small garden seem much larger. You can create interesting lighting effects by using mirrors, stainless steel, and conversely painted surfaces. These elements can help to reflect the natural light in the garden and make it seem brighter. Plus, they add visual interest and can help to create the illusion of depth.
8. Involve the Entire Family
If you have children, get them involved in the design and creation of your garden. Encourage them to come up with ideas of what they would like to see in the garden, and help them plant. This can be a great way to bring the family together and create memories. It can also help to make the garden feel more like a family space.
9. Use Many Levels
Whether you have a small or large garden, incorporating various levels can help to make the area more interesting and add visual interest. You can use stone steps, raised decks, and terraces; or create a small slope to divide the garden into different areas. Levels can also help to make your garden feel more open because they break up visual clutter.
10. Invest in Quality Materials
Although it might seem more expensive, investing in quality materials can help to make your small garden feel much more sophisticated. Look for items made of glass, stone, metal, or ceramic. They will last much longer than their cheaper counterparts and can add a touch of class to your outdoor space.
When designing your small garden, remember t
