Having an outdoor space has become even more important during the past few months. For many living in an apartment or a townhouse, there may not be a whole lot of room to create a private oasis. Here we show you a few tricks to make whatever space you have work, because as we all know, it’s not the size that counts, it’s what you do with it.
Small outdoor spaces are just as enjoyable for entertaining and relaxing in as spacious ones. And the plus side to a smaller space is less maintenance, and generally, less cost to renovate and decorate.
From vertical gardens to bright colours and swinging hammocks, these small space ideas will transform any outdoor area into a cozy retreat with major style.
Growing up
The living wall, or vertical garden, is great for providing privacy, adding a touch of colour and masking unattractive walls. They’re also a great solution for growing plants often thought to be restricted to a vegetable patch in the backyard.
Table talk
No matter how much space you do or don’t have, squeeze in a table. This will create a beautiful excuse to sit outside, have a cuppa and relax. If guests are over, the table provides a surface to place a drink, a bowl of nibbles and a candle to add atmosphere.
Paint it
Take away the dreariness of the standard wooden back fence or wall and paint it!
So easy to do and the effect is instantaneously fabulous. Black is dramatic and will make other garden features stand out. White is clean and adds the illusion of light and space.
Colour it
Once the garden borders are done, have fun with your furnishings. Paint the bench a vibrant yellow, scatter colourful cushions around, paint your pots in whatever colour you fancy. Such a simple way to get some serious wow factor happening.
Hang a hammock
There is something about swinging in a hammock that can transport you to a tropical island instantly- total bliss. Add some potted palms, festoon lighting and soft music and you can have those holiday feels anytime you need. And when you don’t want to swing, the hammock is so easy to store away.
Mix it up
Make a small space appear so much larger by mixing up your flooring and levels. This concept adds an illusion of space and makes the area so much more interesting.
Mirror mirror on the wall
Install a contemporary mirror panel to visually double the amount of space you have and increase light levels in darker corners.
Choose a long sheet mirror to keep the look urban and complement it with contemporary linear fencing.
Double up
Save on much needed space by creating a sturdy, comfortable bench that can double as a roomy storage unit for toys, gardening tools, even the hammock.
This narrow yard doubles as an outdoor kitchen, with additional under bench storage and also allowing plenty of room to carry the dining table out.
It even has an outdoor bathroom!
Light it up
An outdoor space can be transformed with the simplest of lighting. Festoon lighting strung across the area, or the sparkle of fairy lights wound around the fences and plants, will create a super special evening space.
Fake it
Laying a faux lawn will create the illusion of a much larger space and is perfect for those who really want the feel of being outdoors even on a covered balcony. Added bonus- no prickles, weeding and no need to mow!
Furnish it
To make your space as welcoming and as comfortable as possible, invest in furniture and even an outdoor rug. Different zones can be created for dining, relaxing, and a place to curl up and read your favourite book.
A fire pit is perfect for those chilly nights and can be covered in summer to create an additional coffee table.
With these little tricks your outdoor area can be enjoyed and celebrated no matter what its size or what the season.