How to Make a Small Backyard Feel Larger

Do you dream of having a home surrounded by acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, scattered groves of trees, and a babbling creek feeding into a pond of koi fish? For most of us, that will likely be an unattainable fantasy. But just because you have a small backyard, there’s no reason why you need to feel cramped. With a few design tricks, you can make a small area feel large.

Define Your Zones

Create the appearance of more space by breaking your yard up into different sections. Consider the following:

• A small outdoor carpet and a couple of Adirondack chairs provide a cozy place to lounge, read, and enjoy quiet conversations. 
• Use a small, raised platform with a bistro table and chairs for a dining area
• Place potted plants around a fountain to create a garden nook

By defining each area, you can prevent the backyard from appearing cluttered and chaotic.

Furniture with a Function

Forget about bulky outdoor furniture. Instead, choose multi-functional pieces. A bench with storage can hide gardening tools or outdoor games. A round table with drop leaves takes up less space, and stackable chairs allow you to add more seating without taking up a lot of extra room.

Choose furniture and outdoor rugs in neutral tones to create a visual of open spaces. Light-colored wood for decking can trick the eye into seeing a larger backyard.

Mimic Nature with Curved Lines

Forgo straight walkways and rectangular layouts. Instead, use curved pavers or stones to make winding paths and curved flower beds. These designs will look more natural and create an illusion of an expansive area.

Reflect Space with Mirrors

There’s no need to keep your mirrors inside. Adding a mirror or two can bounce light around and make your yard look larger and brighter. Hang one on a fence or from a tree branch—angle one so it’s facing your plants to double the size of your garden area.

Vertical Gardens

If you have limited space, plant up instead of out. Trellises, walls, and fences are perfect for wall planters or hanging pots. Climbing ivy can create a lush, green wall. Herbs, berries, and flowers thrive in planters and don’t take up valuable square footage.

Add Water Features

A small reflecting pool or fountain creates a tranquil feel while also adding depth to your backyard. In addition, the sound of a gentle water flow is soothing and perfect for relaxing.

Strategic Lighting

In the evening, string lights overhead can create the look of a starry night, and small spotlights on plants and trees can draw the eyes upwards. Lighted pathways and gardens can also help make your area look larger at night.

Find the Right Lighting with Houston Lightscapes

Transforming a small backyard into a space that feels and looks larger takes some creativity and thoughtful planning. And when it comes to adding light to your landscape, you will want to work with our team at Houston Lightscapes. We can help you create a beautiful outdoor retreat right in your own backyard. 

Contact us for a free consultation by calling (713) 461-3600.