The Patio Expert Pages

Simplicity is most important for gaining the most from smaller garden design plans. Pick a dominant flower in one color to create effect. Repeating a couple of varieties of flowers with one or three complimentary colors will help you to create a rich, yet open area. While simplicity is key, dare to be unique in the shape, height, and textures.

Many smaller garden designs stick to straight edges, border beds, paths, and plant rows. While garden decor and decorating with straighter lines work best if you're planning on using the area for formal entertaining, a garden designed with curving lines give a more informal feel and add a sense of flowing movement to the landscape. Smaller garden designs with diagonal fixtures give the illusion of bigger area, as your eye goes from one corner to another corner. Here are a few tips to follow:

Use flowers and ornaments that offer spice and vertical interest. Think about a design that has curved or diagonal properties. Pick light colored patio furniture that adds to your garden and style. Place lighting to showcase special areas, offer night appeal, and add safety.

Less can be more: proportion the amount of different flowers and tones to keep from a cluttered appearance. Create a focal point, Like a small arbor, birdhouse, fountain, or hanging planter on an iron stake. Make the most of any fencing or retaining walls. Fences can give places for hanging plants. Climbing vines on an arbor and decorative grass can soften edges while giving year-round interest.

More ideas. Separating a smaller garden with an arbor or bench can create a focal point that makes the garden look bigger at the same time. Alter elevations and plant heights to diversify a small area; this can be as easy as creating a raised planter. Elements with different functions are great for smaller garden designs: a sitting area with steps provides a raised element and a naturalized plant stand. If there is more room for a larger shrub or small tree, feel free: they can create lovely focals and are awesome shelters for lower-lying plants and ground covers. The most important element in small gardens design? Be creative to create a beautiful, eye-catching, natural area.