Landscaping a small yard can be a real challenge. Although it doesn’t require lots of elements, you should choose carefully what you’ll put there. You want to maximize the limited space, not to dwarf it. Therefore, make sure to take the following things into consideration prior to transforming your small yard into the space of your dreams. Not only will you save on your budget, but you’ll make the most of it as well. And remember, every bit of space is valuable, don’t waste it!
Planning Is Essential
First of all, you should have in mind what you’re going to do with the yard so you transform it into a place of your dreams. Whether a small or large outdoor space you’re decorating, it’s a process where the planning shouldn’t be overlooked.
When it comes to a small yard, it doesn’t have to feel small. All it takes is a little time to plan to maximize the space and make the most of it. For instance, you can start by creating a focal point, whose position should depend on the arrangement of your backyard. Generally speaking, there should be a natural path to it from the threshold. However, you can put it amid the blooms and surprise the guests who’ll suddenly discover it.
Plan! Regardless of what you want to put in your yard, whether it’s a mosquito trap, an automated sprinkler or hammock, plan ahead! Not only you will save yourself from headache when you have to change the budget, but you will have a better idea of whether you can pull it off on your budget!
Make It Fun for Your Friends as Well
Once you start putting your plan into action, you won’t have to spend a small fortune on experts to decorate your backyard. You could use a helping hand from your friends instead. Invite them to some BBQ and cold drinks, which will make the painting of the fences, the arrangement of the furniture, the planting, and the cleaning, a piece of cake. Don’t spend too much on materials. For instance, you can lay a budget-friendly gravel path instead of using cobbles or bluestones, which, of course, are more expensive. Also, you’d be surprised by how much a fresh coat of paint can transform an old fence.
Plants Pay Dividends in the Long Run
The plants in your garden are money in the bank. Add plants and greenery to your outdoor space as much as possible. Grow your own food. Purchase wisely. For instance, you’d pay less for bulbs in the fall. On the other hand, bare-root plants are less expensive than their container-grown counterparts. They don’t require pots, use fewer fertilizers and fungicides, and less water than the latter ones. By summer, the plants will be on their way to the desired finish – that is, a beautiful green garden.
Small Yards Require Out of the Box Approach
You can’t treat your small yard like ordinary. Since the outdoor space is limited, it requires a different approach. Start with what’s already there, then try to maximize the space in every way possible. Landscape it differently. Find features that will obscure the actual size of the yard. Large ones simply won’t do since they’ll make the small space look even smaller.
Trick the eye! For instance, install diagonal pavers, which will make the yard visually bigger. Divide the area with trellis and create zones. Additionally, put a mirror that will visually double the size of the space. Plant vertically. Add levels. All of this will give the illusion of added space.
Recycle Old Furniture and Other Useless Stuff
Recycling the old and useless things is a good way to put decorative and unique accents to your backyard designs. On the one hand, these DIY projects save money. On the other, it’s good for the environment. The old used furniture at first glance might look like garbage to you. But it can be perfectly used as a dining set in your backyard. Or a bench. Or whatever. It won’t last over the years for sure, but it’ll tide you over until you get new, long-lasting furniture.
Shop! Don’t Rush for the First Product
First things first, don’t buy the first product you’ll find when looking for one. Whatever product you need, there are plenty of them of the same type with all shapes and sizes, whose price range varies. Take your time. Take a closer look at the features. Read reviews and make a comparison between the products and the prices. Don’t pay an arm and a leg when you can get the same quality for a lower price.
Don’t Compromise Quality
People always think that the higher the price, the better the quality of the product. Of course, that’s not always the case. But, prior to spending your money on one, consider doing some research that will help you get a better understanding of its features. Sometimes you have to pay more to get the best quality and a product that will last over the years. That’s why you should never compromise on quality over price (if you have the budget, of course.) Otherwise, you’ll always find a lower-cost alternative to the product you’re looking for.
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Martha M.
I'm passionate about small DIY projects and my modest garden. I'm always up for a challenge! Soon after getting out of university, I realized I won't find many if I don't set the ground myself. Soon after, TopYardDesign.com was created.
