Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Making the Most of a Small Outdoor Space


Making the Most of a Small Outdoor Space


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. 

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