Many modern homes and new-builds today come with compact and bijoux gardens, while for apartment dwellers, the only outdoor space they sometimes have is a terrace or balcony. Fear not! With a little forward planning and our useful tips for small garden design ideas, you can maximise every inch of space.
Make your space work hard
Split your garden into sections with individual purposes. In a small garden, position a shed such as the modestly sized Suffolk-T&G Pent Shed to the rear of the space for example, with a nearby decked area for sitting and relaxing. Using different surface materials for each of the areas will identify the different zones and their functions, subconsciously making the space feel airier and bigger, so add some lawn and perhaps a gravelled area for a water feature and straightaway, your garden is earning its keep!
Add levels
Adding different levels will create perspective in a small garden and generate interest. Decking is a great means of doing this and, if located at the end of a narrow garden, a decked area will also provide a focal point, drawing the eye down and creating a sense of space. Witham Timber supplies everything needed to build a full decking system and our decking calculator will help you work out what you will need.
Think vertically
As we utilise the walls inside our homes for pictures and mirrors, so we should capitalise on the walls and fences in our outdoor spaces. A trellis positioned on a sunny wall will immediately create a vertical growing space in the absence of traditional beds and borders. Train a container grown climber up the trellis or attach decorative planters to it for variety.
Create a focal point
In larger gardens, it is relatively easy to create a focal point by way of an arch or even a summerhouse, or large tree. These structures would overwhelm a small garden and not even be possible on a terrace or balcony. Creating a focal point in a small space can be challenging but when designing a small garden, think on a smaller scale. Use a selection of planters to create visual interest or even a single, specimen plant; if even this will be too much for your space, consider a beautiful bird table, in a prime position.
Furniture for a small garden
Even the smallest garden or balcony can be made to feel like an extension to your indoor space by the addition of well chosen furniture for a small garden. A garden table and benches set are multi-functional and can double as both dining area and seating, while a companion set will provide a compact but perfect accompaniment to a romantic tête à tête.
Small is beautiful and that applies to gardens too. They are far easier to maintain and if you want to change something, it can be carried out in a heartbeat. No matter what size your outdoor space, these tips will help you make the most of what you have!