Photography: Chris Warnes
Even if you’re lacking outdoor space, you can turn your alfresco zone into an area you’ll love and get lots of use out of with some smart-thinking small garden ideas. You’d be surprised how much you can fit in with a bit of planning.
Tiers can help on a small sloping block, while varying heights also help increase the number of ‘zones’ you can squeeze in. While you might think a pool, cubby house and entertaining area are never going to fit, think again. There’s a way to do it, just on a smaller scale.
Here are some ideas for your small garden.
Small garden ideas
Take your tight outdoor area from poky to perfection with a little inspiration…
1. The wonder of water
Yes, you can fit a pool into a small garden. There’s a range of beautiful options, with Plungie pools a popular one. Interior designer Darren Palmer installed one during the recent renovation of his Bondi home. Kyal and Kara’s Bay Builds project also features a round pool in the garden design of each duplex. Increasingly popular, an outdoor shower is also brilliant in a garden with a pool or for washing off sandy kids after a day at the beach, and can be squeezed into a compact corner.
2. Multiple zones
This wonderful family garden packs a pool, lawn area, cubby, outdoor kitchen and outdoor shower into an urban-sized space. The use of different heights helps them squeeze an array of zones into a pint-sized backyard.
3. Planting plans
Layering plants of different heights adds depth to a narrow bed, while a framework on the back wall uses every inch. Think pretty climbing vines creeping up walls, along awnings and even over handrails for a garden that feels full and lush, without the need for large garden beds.
4. Perfect for hanging around
A swinging chair is a gorgeous way to give your outdoor space some love, and adds impact without taking up much room. A comfortable swinging chair instantly turns this deck into a cosy retreat.
