9 Clever Tricks to Expand the Look of Your Small Backyard
ERA Evergreen
SPECIAL SAUCE: OUR RECIPE FOR RAVING FANS
SPECIAL SAUCE: OUR RECIPE FOR RAVING FANS
You don't have to feel limited or confined by a tiny backyard. You can create a bigger, cozier outdoor environment with a few well-thought-out design decisions. It's not necessary to feel constrained by a tiny backyard. You can create a considerably larger impression of space in your garden by putting these nine tips into practice. Whether you're maximizing your outdoor area and making it a welcoming retreat regardless of its size, these recommendations will help you make the most of it by adding vertical components, employing light colors, or creating distinct zones. Here are nine effective ways to make your small backyard look bigger.
Use Vertical Space
When horizontal space is limited, go vertical. Install tall planters, trellises, or vertical gardens to draw the eye upwards and create the illusion of height. Climbing plants, hanging baskets, and even wall-mounted decor can make your backyard feel more spacious by utilizing the space above ground level.
Incorporate Mirrors
Mirrors aren’t just for indoors. Placing a mirror on an exterior wall or fence can reflect light and greenery, creating the illusion of more space. Choose a large, weather-resistant mirror and position it strategically to double the visual size of your backyard.
Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture
Furniture that serves multiple purposes is a must in a small backyard. Consider benches with built-in storage, foldable tables, or seating that doubles as a planter. This not only saves space but also reduces clutter, helping the area feel larger.
Create Defined Zones
Dividing your backyard into different functional areas can actually make it feel bigger. Use different materials, such as decking, pavers, or gravel, to define areas for dining, lounging, and gardening. This segmentation tricks the eye into perceiving multiple “rooms” rather than one small space.
Choose Light Colors
Light colors can make a space feel open and airy. Use a light color palette for your outdoor furniture, walls, and decor. Soft whites, pale grays, and pastel tones reflect more light, making your backyard feel more expansive.
Incorporate Diagonal Lines
Diagonals can make a space appear larger by drawing the eye across the area. Install decking or pavers in a diagonal pattern, or place furniture at an angle. This simple trick can add depth and dimension to your backyard.
Use Transparent Materials
Furniture and decor made of transparent materials, like glass or acrylic, can help maintain an open feel. A glass-topped table or a clear fence panel lets light pass through, reducing the visual weight of the objects and making the space feel less confined.
Keep It Minimalist
A cluttered space always feels smaller. Stick to a minimalist design by choosing only essential furniture and decor items. Opt for sleek, streamlined designs that don’t overwhelm the space. The more open space you have, the larger your backyard will feel.
Add Strategic Lighting
Good lighting can make a small backyard feel bigger, especially in the evening. Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to highlight key areas and create a sense of depth. String lights, lanterns, or well-placed spotlights can draw attention to the vertical elements and defined zones, enhancing the overall perception of space.
