15 Tips for Small Space Landscapes
We know how tricky it can be to design a landscape for a small space. With minimal surface area, finding a landscape design that is both functional and picturesque can seem intimidating. Whether you live in a house, are a condo-dweller, or a renter with a small patio we have tips for you!
1. FORM A VIEW
Framing a view can be done using pergolas or arbors. Shrubs, trees, or garden art can also add vision. You can also try going for potted plants.
2. BUILD ZONES
By breaking apart your area into smaller pieces it can feel larger! Try creating multiple seating areas, a garden, or even a cozy fire area.
3. CHOOSE COLORS WISELY
Did you know the colors you use can make a space feel smaller or larger? Bold and bright colors do best near the front of your view. When those bold, bright colors grab your attention, the rest of the space will give a receding effect, making it feel larger.
4. THINK ABOUT PERSPECTIVE
Long, vertical lines can be used as a trick to change the perspective of size in a yard. If slanted near each other, the lines can be used to create a focal point and will serve to enhance the illusion. One good example is fence with repeating rows of flowers and a pergola.
5. ADD CHARACTER
Unforeseen elements such as spontaneous use of paving materials, lawn, hardscape, and container plantings can all add interest to the backyard. These will all help to distract from the size of the landscape.
6. UTILIZE EMPTY SPACE
Improve the look of your shed or house wall with vertical garden feature. Espaliering may look intimidating, but it is much easier than most would think. This is a quick way to add elegance to your yard.
7. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SURROUNDINGS
Do your neighbors have any views that might add to your yard? Open yards or towering trees can help add perspective to your backyard. Consider your neighbors’ yard when deciding where to place zones.
8. FAVOR FOLIAGE AND TEXTURE
Bold, tropical plants can add lushness to your landscape and even change the scale of your yard. Unique shapes and sizes of plants can help add a cool ambiance.
9. THINK VERTICAL PLANTS, NOT HORIZONTAL
With many spaces being horizontal, it is best to look for plants that grow vertically rather than horizontally. There are a handful of dwarf varieties that work well. Columnar evergreens are a favorite and look great in the winter as well.
10. FALL FOR FOCAL POINTS
A simple point of interest can redirect eyes and will make a backyard feel crisp and clean. Vertical plants are popular focal points that can make a nook feel more serene.
11. USE NOOKS TO YOUR ADVANTAGE
Spaces that are rarely seen can still add interest to your yard. Corners near your house or garage can be filled with trees, oversize containers, or flower and foliage.
12. CONSIDER GOING LAWN FREE
If you are someone who really loves plants, then you might not need to bother with a lawn. A grass lawn takes up a lot of space – consider parting with grass!
13. RAISE YOUR PLANTS OR GARDENS
Adding height to your plants by a foot or two can add dimension to your yard. Try using raised beds or stairs to distract from the small yard size. We love these planter boxes by Urban Plantations.
14. REDUCE CLUTTER
Keep calm and order by devoting attention to just a few plants, or just one single color.
15. USE YOUR HOME AS A BACKDROP
If your home has a side that is completely bare on one side, you can dress it up by adding wisteria. The leafy backdrop will look great against any outdoor area!
We hope these tips give you more inspiration to spruce up your small outdoor living space. If you still need inspiration and are looking for professional help, contact us!