Creating a small outdoor sanctuary is not just about trying to make the space feel bigger. It involves gently integrating unique points of interest, awakening a sense of curiosity and establishing seamless connections.
Create interesting spaces
Curves and nooks in a garden naturally entice us to look around the corner, discover hidden pockets and immerse ourselves in the experience. These design elements help to create interesting spots within the overall space.
The options are plentiful when selecting punctuation points. Courtyards or little balconies are often used to create an area of focus. A small water feature tucked behind a sweep of planting or a perfectly positioned chair so you can sit and enjoy the ambience will also evoke a feeling of presence and place.
As well as being aesthetically pleasing, cosy pockets stimulate our sense of curiosity and discovery. They create a sense of purpose and provide an excuse to venture through the larger space and pause to enjoy your surrounds.
Develop a spatial plan
A well-balanced space depends on a delicate balance of horizontal and vertical planes. Utilising height is a technique designed to draw the eye upwards and follow the lushness as it soars towards the sky, making an area feel much larger.
Vertical gardens can take a variety of forms and growing plants on a suspended panel helps to create the impression of elevation and abundance. A vined trellis and towering trees also entice the gaze higher and have the additional benefit of blocking out unsightly buildings or surrounding neighbours.
Make it multifunctional
Small outdoor spaces often need to work hard. One modestly sized area may have to perform a multitude of functions and thoughtful design is essential to creating a harmonious result. A rear inner-city courtyard might need to double as a car spot, for example. Perhaps a narrow side garden has to harbour a clothesline, as well as taps and a ladder.
Some people require a living room-style arrangement and others need a dining spot with storage — some may need both in the one area. Ensuring the space can accommodate different serviceable areas is crucial and needs to be carefully considered, right at the start of the planning phase.
Include a special feature
Including a meaningful object will entice you to venture outside and immerse yourself in your surrounds, whether your garden is large or small. It might be an exquisite sculpture, a special table or a pot passed down through the generations that tells a particular story, bringing a smile and certain ease to your experience.
Whether it’s a place to restore your spirits, or an environment of inspiration, having points of interest and employing good spatial planning will help to create a feeling of place and ease in the smallest garden. An intimate space provides an opportunity to nurture the mind and soul in the cosiest of ways.
Nicola Cameron is an award-winning landscape architect and the Director of Sydney-based Pepo Botanic Designs.