Even the most beautiful and expansive homes may not have equally ample backyard spaces. If you have a small backyard, you might feel stuck on how to best incorporate landscaping and hardscape design into your space without sacrificing usable space for entertaining, activities, and leisure.
Believe it or not, hardscaping is a great way to maximize your usable space in a small yard. Hardscape design allows you to increase functionality, incorporate different textural elements, and boost the visual appeal of any space.
Below you’ll find some tips for how best to include hardscape features in your small backyard:
Stick to One Material
In large yards, designers might pull in several different paver materials, but in small spaces, it’s best to use one paving material. In small yards, too many competing visual elements can make the space feel cluttered and disjointed. Using the same material throughout can help make your outdoor space feel more cohesive and even bigger.
Don’t Try to Do Too Much
Often, outdoor spaces are required to fulfill multi-functional roles. If you use your backyard for grilling, entertaining, and playing with your dogs, it might feel tempting to fence off certain areas for specific activities. However, in doing so, it can make the entire area feel more cramped or closed in. It’s recommended to leave the space as open as possible!
Add a Patio Space
The beautiful thing about hardscape design is that it is entirely customizable to meet your needs. You don’t need a large amount of space to incorporate a patio into your yard. Depending on the amount of space you have, it may be a good idea to add a “patio island” away from your house to create a dedicated seating or dining area. Creating a raised patio deck can also add an exciting visual element to your yard. If you are tight on space, it helps to build your patio as an extension of your home’s architecture.
Build Raised Beds and Introduce Vertical Elements
In small spaces, gardening and landscaping can be a challenge if you don’t have a plan. Raised beds and vertical elements can help you take advantage of all the usable space in your yard without infringing on other functions you need your space to serve.
You can build raised beds and add vertical elements, such as trellises or a water feature, anywhere you want. Raised beds and vertical elements also allow you to open up your design to include various materials, such as concrete, brick, stone, wood, and different metals.
Be Intentional About Lighting
Strategically placed lighting can make a big difference in the functionality of your outdoor space. Landscape lighting can highlight the design and landscaping choices you’ve carefully selected, but it can also increase your ability to use your yard even after the sun goes down.
For more information about our hardscaping design and installation services in Bucks and Montgomery Counties, including Newtown, Doylestown, Holland, Richboro, Southampton, Yardley, and beyond, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team today! We have proudly helped homeowners achieve the walkways, patios, decks, garden areas, retaining walls, pool areas, fireplaces, and outdoor kitchens of their dreams.