With spring here and summer around the corner, it’s time to get back outside and start investing in your backyard. As property prices get bigger and bigger, the size of land we’re buying is getting smaller and smaller. While you may have found the perfect house in the perfect location, it’s likely that the size of the yard you were hoping for has been cut in half. Whether you have a tiny or oddly shaped space to work with, you can still make the most of your backyard by following these tips.
1. Adjust the Shape
Having a wonky shaped backyard is going to make things more difficult. Ideally, your yard would be square or rectangle, as those are the easiest shapes to work with when it comes to designing spaces. If yours is a shape that you can’t describe, try filling in the odd spots with flowers, shrubs or trees to create a more uniform and visually appealing shape. A landscape designer can strategically place plants so that your backyard’s shape looks transformed without actually having to change the shape. You can also install a new fence to better define the boundaries of your yard.
2. Smooth it Out
Just like that wonky shape, a bumpy backyard is going to be hard to work with. Furniture will not sit right and will be prone to falling over. You may become frustrated and give up on your dream backyard because of a few bumps. Don’t despair. If you really want to make your backyard a retreat, spend the time and money and have the ground flattened out. This is a process called yard levelling and can be done by a landscaping company. They will work to remove the dirt that is causing the bumps and ensure your yard is smooth. This way whatever items you decide to put in your backyard will lay flat and not fall over or look slightly askew.
3. Think Vertical
If you’re limited in space, the best place to go is up. You can install vertical planters, buy trellises for crawling plants, and even use your fences to grow small plants like herbs and succulents. Use anything that will help draw the eye upwards. Have your landscaper plant tall shrubs and trees to help create the illusion of height. To separate and define your spaces have a raised deck built. This will help to visually break up the space by adding another level to it.
4. Create Designated Zones
Having designated zones for multiple activities will create the illusion that there’s more space than there really is. Think about what you will be using your backyard for. Perhaps it’s entertaining and gardening. Try creating a seating area separate from your garden. An easy way to visually create separate zones is by mixing up the flooring. If your backyard is currently all grass, try adding some stonework or patio flooring to clearly divide the space. By visually breaking up the multiple areas, your backyard will instantly look bigger than it really is.
5. Add Lighting
The right lighting can make all the difference. If you’re planning on using your backyard at night, add some fairy lights or add solar-powered lights to your garden so they turn on at night. You can connect with a lighting expert who can help design the perfect backyard lighting for you. Having pretty twinkling lights will make your outdoor space feel cozier and more inviting. Citronella candles are a great option as they provide the warmth and light of regular candles but help keep pesky mosquitoes away.
6. Have Fun
While you may not have the biggest backyard in the world, there’s no reason you can’t have fun with its design. Incorporate bright colours and patterns where you can. You can have your backyard furniture painted or add some indoor elements to make your backyard feel like an extension of your home. By having some fun with your design elements, you’ll focus more on how beautiful your backyard looks and less on the amount of space.
By adjusting the shape of your yard, adding some beautiful homey touches and working with the right landscaper, you’ll be able to make the most of your backyard, no matter what it currently looks like.
Article Updated June 2022.
