Designing a small garden space

Designing a smaller garden doesn't have to be daunting. Although it may seem extremely challenging, by defining spaces and including some basic design rules in your plan you can maximize the smaller footprint and create a green space that will be enjoyed and well utilized.

The first task is determining how you want to use the space. Do you want an area for dining or a small gathering space? Do you require a raised vegetable garden, a storage shed or a play space for children? Establishing your needs for the garden will help you define the different rooms and decide where those should be located before you create them and begin designing.

Once the layout is configured, you can incorporate design principles that will give the smaller garden a larger feel. Creating levels in the garden gives it the sense of being bigger than it is. Steps and terracing are great for creating visual depth, they add layers which makes the space seem more expansive. If you have fencing for privacy you can plant a green screening in front of it to soften the hard lines that make smaller gardens feel more closed in. Soften the planting borders with gentle curves so the eye is drawn more slowly along the edge, a visual trick to give the impression that the space is more sizeable. When it comes to selecting plants, stick with a simple color palate which provides the cohesiveness needed in a smaller space.

Smaller gardens can have plenty to offer if they are thoughtfully designed and executed. By following some simple steps and implementing a few key concepts of design your small garden can provide a big return.