With urban living becoming more popular, we
are finding our outdoor living spaces shrinking – but fear not – you can still
make a small space great – with a few tips.
Less is More – With
smaller spaces you may feel the need to use all the available space, filling
every corner with plants and chairs. A
simple bistro set, with minimal plants and candles can create an intimate space
– without feeling like the proverbial walls are closing in on you.
Go Vertical – Love having
fresh herbs in your backyard, but worried they would limit your space? Build a living wall. It is easy to build – and you can have fresh
herbs in your small space – not to mention a conversation piece and artwork in
your space. Learn how to build your
living wall here
Use Containers – Containers
are great for any space, but especially small spaces. Use the containers for pops of color
throughout the space. Several garden plants are designed to grow in containers, look for
varieties with words like bush, baby, dwarf, tiny, midget, and patio in their
names.
Create a focal point – The
fireplace is the center of most living rooms, which can be recreated outdoors
as well. Not only will it be a great
place for friends and family to gather on cool evenings, it also creates the
center of your outdoor space. You can
also use fountains, to create an intimate gathering space.
Bring the inside out – Trying to
use your outdoor space as another living space in your house? Use accents you would use in your house outdoors. For example add a rug – this gives the feel
of an indoor living space, and can also add color, and another focal point. Don’t forget to add the pillows – adding more
color and comfort for your guests.
Lastly use artwork on your walls – this can be the herb wall mentioned
earlier, or go to your local salvage yard, and find some unique wrought iron
pieces to hang.
Share with us some of the ways you make the
most of your small outdoor space on our FaceBook page.
