Let’s face it, we all love spending time in our outdoor spaces, whether it’s a small balcony or a cozy patio. However, when it comes to small outdoor spaces, it can be a bit of a challenge to make the most of the limited space available.
Make use of every inch
That’s why we’ve spoken to some of the top garden designers in West Midlands to bring you seven creative ideas for maximizing limited outdoor spaces. Let’s dive in!
This might sound obvious but making good use of every available space is key if you’re to properly design a small outdoor space. A few ways to achieve this is to use hanging baskets, wall-mounted planters, and vertical gardens to create a sense of depth and interest.
Plants that work well in small spaces include herbs, succulents, and small flowers. These are not only visually appealing but also easy to maintain.
When choosing plants and planters, keep in mind the amount of sunlight your space receives, as well as the overall style you’re going for.
Create multi-functional spaces
Creating multi-functional outdoor spaces is another great way to maximise small outdoor spaces. By incorporating seating, lighting, and even outdoor kitchens, you can make your outdoor space more inviting and functional.
When choosing furniture and appliances, go for compact and space-saving options; for example, a foldable table or a small barbecue grill. This will allow you to make the most of your space and still enjoy all the features of a larger outdoor space.
Add water features
Water features such as fountains or ponds can add depth and interest to small outdoor spaces. These features can be small-scale, such as wall-mounted waterfalls or small-scale ponds.
Along with adding visual interest, the sound of running water can also be refreshingly calming. Before choosing a water feature, keep in mind the amount of maintenance it will require and choose one that fits the style of your outdoor space.
Go for a minimalist look
A minimalist design can create the illusion of more space, using a limited colour scheme and simple lines. This is a great option for squeezed spaces because it keeps things simple and uncluttered.
Examples of minimalist garden design include Zen or rock gardens. These designs are easy to maintain and can add some tranquillity to your outdoor space. Remember, when creating a minimalist garden, don’t sacrifice style and functionality for simplicity.
Embrace the small space
Instead of trying to make your outdoor space look bigger, you can focus on the unique features of your garden. For example, if you have an interesting view or a unique architectural feature, be sure to highlight it and make it feel more special.
Incorporate a theme
A theme can tie a small outdoor space together and make it feel more cohesive. Examples of themes that can work in squeezed spaces include Japanese gardens, Mediterranean gardens, and fairy gardens.
When choosing a theme, consider the overall style of your space and go for something that makes it feel more fun and playful.
Play around with lighting
There are many ways to jazz up a small outdoor space with light, but first you have to figure out what you want to achieve.
One way is to use lighting as an accent. Place a couple of lights around plants or in the corner of your patio for a touch of illumination. If you have more space, consider using multiple light sources instead of focusing on one area. For creative ideas and a diverse selection of outdoor lighting solutions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Blingle.
Another way to add light is by using candle holders. These are easy to find and come in all different shapes and sizes. Plus, they can be personalized with glass votives or even bouquets of flowers.
Simply fill them with votives or scented oils and enjoy the glow without having to worry about a fire hazard!
Finally, don’t forget about solar lights! These are perfect if you want a little added ambiance at night but don’t want any electrical work or installation involved.
Simply place them in strategic spots near your deck or patio and enjoy the soft glow they provide after dark.
Conclusion
Outdoors is where we feel most alive, so it’s only fitting that we maximize every inch of our precious space. If you don’t have plenty to play around with, this is not the time to despair.
As we’ve found out in our article, there are many ways to make the most of small outdoor spaces without sacrificing any amount of living space. All you need is to employ clever design and some creative thinking to create a beautiful oasis that’s perfect for relaxing in or entertaining guests.
