Small Spaces

The way we live is for every changing and space is becoming an ever-sought after commodity and therefore our gardens, now more than ever, have become an integrated part of our living space.

But, what are the limitations for a small garden? Most of us do not have rolling acres of land on which to carefully calculate the width versus length of our perennial borders. And, realistically many of us don’t have the time or the inclination to undertake the maintenance these acres of gardens would need.

Creating an outdoor area in a small space has its limits, but it should not be limiting. In a small garden, everything is in the detail. You can keep on top of maintenance, while still having time to sit and enjoy the space. In fact, many small gardens are designed around entertaining and relaxing, rather then the need to nurture masses of plants.

Whatever your reasons for having a small garden, there is no reason it cannot be a well designed show stopper. Virtually any plant or garden style can be adapted into a small garden space. The principles of strong garden design still apply, but they may have to be tweaked slightly.

Main Design Challenges
• The entire garden can be viewed as a whole
• Limited space for ‘hidden’ turns and spaces
• The need to make strong choices and overcome the inclination to buy on impulse
• Colour should be limited to provide cohesion and less is definitely more when space is limited.
• Compensate colour with a greater range and variety of textures
• Textural contrast will help blend the plant material and allow the garden to flow
• Every plant or feature will need to serve a purpose. There is no room for wasted space or underperforming plants. Plants should offer at least two seasons of interest

Small Garden Bonuses
• Design can be easier when you can take in the whole picture at once.
• It takes fewer plants to make a dramatic effect.
• Gardeners get to know every space and plant in a small garden. Any plant that is out of place or not thriving can be spotted and corrected quickly.
• Small gardens lend themselves to being enclosed. For example an evergreen or flowering hedge will give the illusion of a secret garden. A simple low boxwood edge transforms a small garden into a formal garden. Landscaping and fencing enclose and define a space for entertaining or children’s play.
• A small space garden lends itself to personal expression. Smaller gardens are extensions of you and your home and speak volumes about your sensibilities and tastes. But, if your tastes should change, it’s much easier to revamp a small garden.