Having a small backyard doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style or functionality. With some creative thinking and strategic planning, you can transform your compact outdoor space into a charming and functional oasis. Whether you're looking to create a cozy retreat for relaxation or a vibrant area for entertaining, these nine small backyard design ideas will help you make the most of every square foot.
Consider the Use
Before you start ordering furniture or outdoor amenities, consider how you prefer to use the area. What are the main priorities for your outdoor space? When working with a limited area, it can be easy to fill up the space quickly. While installing a large outdoor brick oven for pizzas sounds awesome, it may not be as important as a functional dining area or an outdoor kitchen. If you’d like to have a spot to do yoga or set up a free-standing hammock, be sure to consider how you’ll be able to utilize the space for that as well.
Design a Functional Layout
If you want to maximize every square foot of your backyard space, you’ll want to come up with an appropriate functional layout. A professional designer can help you customize the space to fit the unique size of your outdoor area. Whether you access it from the backdoor of your home or the side of the house, the backyard space should be set up to allow you to move about easily.
Add a Pergola
An eclectic garden can be lovely, but without a proper design, it can overwhelm the space. Consider adding a pergola to help beautify your backyard without taking up excessive room. Pergolas can divide the space, offer shade, and add charm to your soothing oasis. Flowers with long, flexible stems like climbing roses, or a flowering vine, like Wisteria, can make a lovely addition to pergolas.
Try an Arbor
While pergolas and arbors can be quite similar, they aren’t the same. Arbors tend to be much smaller than pergolas while offering lattices and trellises on the side. If you want to make an inviting entryway into the space, an arbor may do nicely.
Playset for Kids
Even though you have a small backyard, you still have an amazing opportunity to incorporate a fun play space for kids. Whether prefabricated or custom-designed for your unique area, the possibilities are endless. For instance, a vertical playset can maximize square footage and offer several fun amenities, like a space for a shaded sandbox at the base, a climbing wall to get to the upper “tree house” portion, and a slide to get back down! If space allows, you can add on some swings or a firefighter’s pole. With different customizations, your special playhouse can complement the rest of your backyard aesthetic.
Create Outdoor Rooms or Zones
Designating different uses for your outdoor space can give the area more functionality. With the right design, you can create a multi-faceted space without making it feel confined. While one area may have a playset, some simple potted plants can divide the space to offer a nice dining area. Utilizing outdoor rugs can also help establish different zones in the backyard.
Fun with Furniture
When it comes to small backyards, there are endless creative possibilities for incorporating outdoor furniture pieces. Adirondack chairs may fit the bill for those looking for a relaxing reading experience. If you want to maximize space for a multi-use experience, a foldable dining table can give way to a serene space for yoga. Consider adding an outdoor sofa and coffee table if the space allows.
Future-Proofing
As you go through the design process for your backyard space, consider how you’ll be using the space in the years to come. While change is inevitable, it's helpful to think ahead to minimize the cost of redoing certain areas. For instance, as children get older, their interest in playsets wanes. With older children, you may get more mileage from simply adding a tree swing or smaller, free-standing elements versus installing a whole playset.
Good Neighbor Vibes
Depending on your backyard’s layout, you may find yourself close to neighbors. Consider how your space may impact privacy as well as property lines. For instance, if you want to install an outdoor shower, you may want to keep it out of view of neighbors’ windows! One beautiful way to bring privacy, beauty, security, and increased property value is through elegant fencing. When you install fencing, it becomes an essential part of your overall backyard aesthetic. You can match styles and finishes to create a cohesive artistic vision. The stunning design of your fence will also be a pleasing view for your neighbors!
If you’re looking to create the backyard oasis of your dreams, Walpole Outdoors can help. Our professional outdoor design experts know how to maximize small spaces. From our ready-to-install models to our custom designs, Walpole Outdoors’ extensive line of aesthetically stunning pieces bring elegance and beauty to any outdoor space. Contact our design team today!