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How to maximise space in smaller gardens

Kellie Cade
Kellie Cade
May 6, 2025

For a lot of homebuyers, having some outdoor space is a must-have.

While it’s easy to assume that bigger automatically means better when it comes to gardens, that’s not always the case. Large gardens can be costly and time-consuming to get just right, whereas smaller spaces are often quicker, easier, and more affordable to transform. And the best part? With a few clever design tricks, small gardens can be made to feel much more spacious and just as stunning as their larger counterparts. 

Make a statement

Want to instantly elevate your garden? Add a focal point like a water feature, eye-catching statue, or a striking plant arrangement. These features draw attention, create depth, and as a bonus, they help distract from the actual size of the space, making your garden feel more expansive and interesting.

Less is more

It’s easy to get carried away and want to include everything you love in a small garden. But packing in too much can make the space feel cluttered and even smaller. Instead, take a step back and think about what really matters to you. Choose a few key elements, whether it's a cozy seating area, your favourite plants, or some decorative touches, and let them shine without overwhelming the space.

Light it up

Lighting is a great trick to make a smaller garden space look bigger than it really is. Try spotlighting features in the distance so that the eye is drawn into the distance. You can also create a sense of flow through the garden by placing lighting along borders, which will encourage the eye to move through the garden, creating a sense of expansion. 

Design smart

Clever landscaping can totally transform a compact garden. Using curved or diagonal paving adds a sense of width and flow. You can also define zones using plants, trellises, or freestanding walls. Not only does this create a sense of mystery (what’s around that corner?), but it also keeps the entire space from being revealed at once, making it feel larger and more inviting.

Lighten up your space

One simple trick to make a smaller garden feel bigger is to use light, airy colours in your design. While bold or dark tones can make a space feel more closed in, softer shades like pale blue, cream, and white reflect light and help open things up. These lighter colours don’t just create the illusion of more space, they also bring a peaceful, calming vibe to your garden.

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Level up

Creating different levels in your garden is a clever way to add depth and structure, making everything feel more spacious and dynamic. Think raised flower beds, taller plants, or vertical features like trellises or pergolas. These draw the eye upward and help break up a flat layout, giving your space a more interesting and expansive feel.

In conclusion, small gardens offer a wealth of potential, and with the right design choices, they can be transformed into beautiful, expansive spaces.

Whether it’s through the use of a focal point, smart lighting, or creating different levels, there are countless ways to maximize space and make your garden feel open and inviting. By carefully selecting key features, embracing clever landscaping techniques, and choosing light, airy colours, you can create a garden that not only feels larger but also radiates charm and tranquillity. With a little creativity and thoughtful planning, your small garden can become a stunning retreat that’s as functional as it is beautiful.