SMALL SPACES, BIG IDEAS bijou gardens

OUTDOOR AREAS ON THE SMALL SIDE CAN FEEL BIG AND BEAUTIFUL TAKE IT FROM THESE EXPERTS

- Hugh Metcalf

1 BRIGHT BRIGHTER DAYS 

A small garden can be considered like a jewel-box powder room- take a bold approach to make it feel more impactful. I painted all the rendered exterior walls in the garden and courtyard in this peachy pink because it's uplifting whatever the weather and also looks great with greenery.

Jess Piddock, interior designer and founder of King Celia Studio

2 DOUBLE DUTY

Doubling up on the function of your furniture pieces can boost the usability of your garden without needing the extra space. Think storage benches, nesting tables and outdoor banquettes for the most versatile set-ups. The right furniture, landscaping and lighting are all key to making the most of a small outdoor space. Multi functional furniture can help you maximise every inch of a small backyard and save money on outdoor seating options.

Joseph Richardson, landscape architect and founder of Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture

3 NA NARROW MINDED

Trees are great for shade and privacy, but the wrong ones can outgrow a small garden. Cultivars use a term, 'Fastigiata', which essentially means that a tree grows in a vertical fashion. All of its branches grow vertically and quite tight to the main trunk. These types of trees have a narrow upright habit, making them look like green columns, and in this sense they provide privacy and don't use too much space on the ground.

Jonathan Fargion, landscape designer