Here are our favourite outdoor decorating ideas for even the most compact garden

As the days get warmer, it seems clear that we’re going to be spending a lot of time in the garden this spring. But what about those of us whose gardens are a little on the small side?

We’re here to show you how even the smallest backyard can be made to feel inviting.

Opt for statement greenery

One or two really eye-catching natural additions can help your outdoor area really shine. This will add structure to your garden while also bringing a sense of fun and freshness.

Go multipurpose

If you can’t fit separate areas for growing plants, lounging and dining in your garden, then why not create a space that can act as all three? Some simple dining furniture and a few hanging plants could be all you need.

Level up

By raising part of your garden with decking, you can create the illusion of multiple distinct areas within your outdoor space. Plus, it’ll give you a project to get stuck into during isolation.

Embrace the inherent cosiness

Even if your garden isn’t acres wide, it can still provide you with a combination of functional space and charm. Embrace what makes your garden special, such as its cosiness, and decorate in a way that celebrates this rather than fights against it.

Adapt to your setting

Even the most challenging outdoor space, like a balcony, can be made into a pleasant area – you just need to be creative. Hanging plants or even a wall garden can help bring the greenery to your balcony, while a bistro table and a couple of chairs can create a simple space for relaxation.

Play with lighting

We put a lot of thought into our indoor lighting, so it makes sense that the same should be true for our outdoor space. Whether you opt for bright standing lamps, delicate fairy lights or the warm glow of a fire pit, the right lighting can help you create the ambience you’re looking for.

Rethink your layout

The way your outdoor space is set out currently isn’t necessarily the best option in terms of space. Think about ways to reconfigure your garden so that you get more light and can enjoy more greenery.

Hang out in a hammock

Hammocks are one of the most ingenious pieces of outdoor furniture because, unlike beds and sofas, they take up minimal floor space and can be set up pretty much anywhere. As soon as your hammock is up and running, you have an instant space for chilling out.

Make room for your hobbies

One way to ensure that you spend time in your garden is to fill it with the things you’re actually likely to use. Whether it’s an instrument, a sketchpad and pencils or reading nook, make room for your hobbies in your outdoor space.

Use rugs and tiles to create diversity

In interior open plan spaces, we often suggest using rugs to highlight separate areas and create the illusion of ‘zones’. Well, the same goes for your garden. Floor options like rugs and colourful tiles allow you to bring whimsy into your garden design while also creating distinct areas.

Treat your garden like a living room

Everything we think of as a living room staple can also be a fantastic addition to your outdoor space, including comfortable seating, end tables and a coffee table. Use these elements to form the building blocks of your ‘outdoor living room’ as we make the move into summer.

Let things grow

Even the tiniest garden can be used as a place for growing and cultivating nature. Use your outdoor space to grow your own herbs, flowers and ingredients during this time, giving your home a touch of greenery and giving you a project to delve into. Think about both colour and perfume when choosing flora so that you can truly make your garden a pleasure to spend time in.

Want to discover your dream home with your dream garden right here on the Homes by Esh website. Explore our developments online today or get in touch using our Live Chat service.