Small Garden Design ideas

If you’re thinking of buying a home but are disappointed that the garden is smaller than you hoped for, there are many lovely, creative ways to optimize a smaller space.

Here are some tips for designing a small garden.

Avoid large furniture which can make a small space seem crowded and create a sense of claustrophobia. For example, instead of large benches, try a bistro-style table and chairs.
Don’t neglect walls, garages, or the sides of a fence. In our homes we use walls for paintings, mirrors, etc. So, don’t ignore them in the garden. Use walls to affix boxes to make more space for planting. And painting those walls in a light or pale color will serve to inject natural light into the space.
Fire and water features have steadily gained in popularity over the years. A simple fire pit is inexpensive and can nicely fit into almost any space. And rather than an elaborate water feature, a simple, scaled down fountain can be aesthetically pleasing, while offering the soothing sounds of trickling water.
If you like to grow edibles, certain fruits and vegetables are well-suited for a small garden, such as tomatoes, artichokes, carrots, peppers, chilies, and radishes as well as a wide variety of herbs and spices. Using pots and containers keep everything flexible and makes your small garden easy to maintain. For the fruit lover in all of us, some trees (peaches and nectarines, for example), have been successfully genetically modified to fit into smaller spaces.
Keep in mind that if plants are correctly chosen, they will attract desirable wildlife such as birds and butterflies which can add greatly to the ambiance of your garden. Also, consider art objects, windchimes, or other decorative elements to create the milieu you’re reaching for.
Square paving can make a small garden look even smaller. Lay paving diagonally - in a diamond shape which will create an illusion of a larger space. Also, using lighter color slabs will open up your garden more.
The rule of 3 applies to small gardens. Use a maximum of 3 types of flooring. For example: grass, one type of stone, and gravel. This will offer a more cohesive and calming scheme. It’s also smart to limit the number of plant species – too many species can cause a sense of chaos.
Consider adding a subtle layer of light at ankle level which can make the space glow.
Lastly, just as indoor spaces are defined, the small outdoor space benefits from similar organizing zones. Items such as a grill and lawn furniture should not be haphazardly placed. Sectioning things off will create a sense of coherence.