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Small tiered garden ideas


Tiered garden ideas: 11 stylish ways to use levels in your plot

(Image credit: Colin Poole/Future)

Are you on the lookout for tiered garden ideas? From striking steps lined with contemporary planters to sunken pools and soft, shrub-covered slopes, when it comes to these stylish designs, the possibilities are almost endless.

Sure, creating distinct levels is a go-to solution for difficult, awkward-shaped plots, but tiered garden ideas aren't merely functional. They're also a great way to add intrigue and character to a space. A dramatic way to define zones, tiers are a must-have if you're after interesting garden layout ideas that will elevate your plot (literally).

To help you get inspired, we've rounded up some of our favorite tiered garden ideas to level up your plot.

What can I do with a tiered backyard?

It may be subtle, but a stone step and retaining wall is a timeless approach to tiered garden ideas

(Image credit: Douglas Gibb/Future)

So, what can you do with a tiered backyard? Well, if you're dealing with a hilly plot to start with, then levelling it off into distinct zones gives a much more defined structure. With this, there is more space for stable, flat ground – ideal for supporting the likes of garden furniture ideas, flowerbed ideas, or even outdoor kitchen ideas.

Tiered garden ideas can also be used to create areas that are more private – great for tucked-away seating areas, for example. They can also be used for all kinds of stylistic reasons. For instance, borders and beds arranged across levels really helps to show them off, especially if you add good garden lighting. 

So, in short, there are all kinds of opportunities that tiered garden ideas can provide. But don't just take our word for it, take a look at some of the gorgeous designs below.

1. Border your levels in wood for a rustic edge

Give multi-levelled beds an organic look

(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)

Multi-levelled flowerbeds are a gorgeous way to draw the eye and create maximum impact in a space. Bordered with a gently curved, wooden-cladded edge, the textural planting is given a sense of structure. However, it feels laid-back, rustic, and organic – great if you're after a more natural vibe for your plot. If you're after something more contemporary, go for stone instead with its sleeker finish, or head over to our garden edging ideas for more inspiration.

Use the levels to create interest on a steep slope around a lawn, and why not position an arbour seat halfway up? It will make a lovely destination spot to perch with a cuppa and take in the view.

2. Go for sleek paving

Opt for pale-hued paving across your plot's levels

(Image credit: Colin Poole/Future)

Love a contemporary style? Incorporate your favorite paving ideas into your levels for a cohesive finish that feels polished and fuss-free.

We love this pale hue which helps to expand on the feeling of space. Plus, it contrasts beautifully alongside all the planting – allowing the vibrant green hues to really pop. 

What's more, the tiers in this scene provide a distinct divide between different garden zones. Whether it's a small patch of lawn for lounging, an elevated spot for dining, or a raised space for taking in the view, there's a space for every need. Yet, with the consistent use of materials and styles, the whole look ties together seamlessly.

3. Create a tucked-away seating spot

A hidden seating spot adds a sense of discovery to this plot

(Image credit: Colin Poole/Future)

Tiered garden ideas are a great way to create intrigue in a plot, as they break up the line of sight. Here, wide stone steps are set at an angle, and, upon reaching the top, a cozy nook– perfect for sitting with friends – is revealed.

Don't forget to deck out the scene with festoon lights and one of our outdoor heating ideas. That way, you can enjoy the space from day to night without a hitch. 

Looking for more designs? Our outdoor seating ideas has plenty.

4. Level up your decking for your tiered garden ideas

Add multi-functional steps to your deck as part of your tiered garden ideas

(Image credit: Unsplash/Im3rd Media)

By default, decking ideas are often used to raise outdoor furniture off of the ground. But, as shown here, this versatile landscaping feature can be used to create more tiers than just one.

This chic design offers generous steps out of the house, that could, at one end, also double up as a bench. With a rich mahogany hue, it offers a cabin-in-the-woods vibe that complements the treetop surrounding beautifully.

5. Step up to a pool

Give your pool its own level in your garden

(Image credit: Annaick Guitteny/Future)

A swimming pool is given a whole new element of luxe when it's incorporated into tiered garden ideas. By giving it a level all to itself, it feels tucked away and exclusive – the perfect place for a relaxing swim at the end of the day. 

And, why not recreate an infinity pool effect, but, rather than looking out over an ocean, offer an elevated view over a flowerbed instead? Leaning against the end of this pool with a view of fragrant rose bushes certainly sounds like heaven to us.

Head over to our backyard pool ideas for more inspiration.

6. ...or sink it down for a chic space

A sunken pool will always be chic

(Image credit: Jackson Design & Remodeling)

Of course, you could go the other way and step down to a pool rather than up. A sunken design like this offers a sense of privacy from the house and a luxurious, spa-like vibe. Steps either side balance the scene and add to the opulent feel.

Surround with pale, rendered walls to help reflect the water's soothing shimmer in the midday sun. Meanwhile, a cleverly integrated bench adds a contemporary twist – simply boost the comfy factor with a patterned cushion or two.

7. Line steps with modern planters

Tones of grey contrast beautifully against bright green ferns and grasses

(Image credit: Future)

This steep stairway could feel imposing, yet clever design features keep the look light and modern.

For starters, we adore the use of gradient grey hues on the sleek planters. Not only do they provide a contemporary look, but they offer the perfect complementary backdrop to the vibrant green hues of the leafy foliage, allowing them to shine. Meanwhile, the choice of textural planting makes a pleasing contrast against the angular lines.

White walls either side help to bounce light around the area and make the space feel larger.

Looking for more ways to get from level to level in style? There are plenty more interesting garden steps ideas that you can turn to.

8. Disguise a slope with shrubs

Soften the boundaries with mounds of gentle planting

(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)

Instead of carving out hard landscaping solutions for your tiered garden ideas, you might prefer to go a little more natural with soft slopes. However, to keep the look cohesive, try a few design tricks from the garden shown above...

As you can see, the house is much higher than the lawn, yet the boundaries between the two are softened with the use of planting. Large hydrangeas, flame-hued crocosmias, an evergreen hedge, and teetering hollyhocks draw the eye upwards and merge the lines between lawn, border, and architecture in a seamless fashion. Not to mention, they provide tons of visual interest and color. Want to recreate the look? Take a look at our tips on how to grow hydrangeas to get started.

If you're looking to cover a steeper slope in plants, then the RHS has some guidance. They say that soil in these conditions is often poor, so be sure to prepare it properly, removing all weeds and adding well-rotted manure or good quality compost where possible. On very steep slopes, try pegging down coarse coconut matting to prevent the soil from washing away when it rains. Plant through the matting – as it decays, the plants should start to secure themselves by their roots.

They also suggest to grow long grass on steep banks for an informal look. Plant up with self-naturalising bulbs (snowdrops, for example), or wildflower plug plants for extra visual appeal.

9. Define steps with an arch

Rustic materials and a decorative archway give this garden tons of charm

(Image credit: Colin Poole/Future)

An old red brick wall with integrated steps offers a vintage look to this tiered garden. And, we love the contrasting edging along the top – a simple yet effective style statement. 

In keeping with the country-cottage vibe is an ornate metal arch, ready to support a climbing rose as it establishes. As the rose grows, it will ramble up and over the support, creating a fragrant gateway between the two levels.

It's a gorgeous way to separate the two zones of a verdant lawn and a gravelled space for subtly raised beds and garden buildings (this blue-hued beauty has got us swooning). 

Speaking of garden buildings, take a look at our summer house ideas for more lovely designs.

10. Incorporate a bench

Make your hard landscaping provide more than one function for your tiered garden ideas

(Image credit: James Merrell/Future)

This triangular plot is given a new lease of life with the use of tropical palm prints, playful flamingos, and a hot pink and lush green color palette.

The lower level lines up with the house, for a seamless transition between indoors and out. The elevated lawn is bordered by a clever use of hard landscaping, whereby a retaining wall doubles up as a permanent seating solution which effortlessly combines with steps.

If you have a difficult plot that you're looking to transform, take a look at our ideas for awkward shaped gardens.

11. Offer a view at all levels

Garden designed by Bowles & Wyer

(Image credit: Bowles & Wyer)

This gorgeous design is a real head-turner and has to be one of our favorite tiered garden ideas. 

The dramatic use of levels works in a multitude of ways. Firstly, it provides a stunning view of the planting from all levels of the house, explains the Bowles & Wyer team. And, as we think you'll agree, with the help of great garden lighting, it maintains its magic once night falls.

The high levels also provide a sense of shelter to the lower-levelled seating space. What's more, the wide pathways between the tiers allow easy access for maintenance.

Love the look? Take a look at our sloping garden ideas for more inspiration.

The garden was always a big part of Holly's life growing up, as was the surrounding New Forest where she lived. Her appreciation for the great outdoors has only grown since then. She's been an allotment keeper, a professional gardener, and a botanical illustrator – plants are her passion.

Tiered Garden Ideas to Level Up Your Backyard

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For plots with vertical spaces, tiered garden designs are a great way to add intrigue and character to the yard. Tiers are also a must-have for defining zones and elevating your garden.

For one, you can have more space for a patio with furniture, pool, BBQ, or an extended outdoor living space area like sheds.

What’s more, a multi-levelled design outdoor space makes a tremendous impact. And for homes built on hills, a tiered garden will not only make the plot more usable, but it also can increase the value of your property!

So, if you’re on the lookout for amazing tiered garden ideas, we’ve got you covered! Level up your backyard and put your vertical space to good use. Get inspired with these cool design inspirations from the web.

Let’s get started with the list!

1. Industrial gabion

Rock gabion walls have added a major dose of textural interest to the landscape of this tiered garden. If you have an industrial-themed backyard, this rock really works for spaces with steps.

Image Credit: WikiMedia Commons

2. Several tiers on a sloped property

Multiple tiers on a sloped garden can help manage erosion. This also gives you the opportunity to layer different plants and landscaping elements.

Whether you use stone pavers or concrete to form the tiers, they’ll make a dramatic impact.

Image Credit: WikiMedia Commons

3. Wood rustic edge

Give multi-levelled beds an organic look, and go for wood to add a rustic charm. Multi-levelled flowerbeds boarded with wooden edges feel laid-back, rustic, and organic.

This is great if you’re after a more natural vibe for your garden.

4. Multi-level space for diversion

A tiered garden concept like this can help you see the potential of unused zones in your backyard. Set up the outdoor dining area on the first level, the pool in the middle, and the sun loungers with a pergola at the top.

5. Uneven sloped backyard

The unevenness of a sloped plot is actually what makes it an asset! Take a look at this garden as an example; the homeowners were able to make the most out of those slopes and hills.

It gives the impression of flow and movement.

Image Credit: WikiMedia Commons

6. Opportunities for growing garden

A simple tiered garden setup like this can offer a lot of opportunities for growing greens. You’re not limited to using the ground to plant your blooms.

Image Credit: Geograph UK

7. The contemporary landscape

The grey wooden decking and stairs with LED lighting are the highlight of this modern multi-level outdoor space. Surround the edges with plant materials, such as round bushes, to complete the look.

Image Credit: Pexels

8. Play with boulder rocks

Boulder rocks complement the natural surroundings, and it works well with casual or country homes. The playful rock concept in this tiered yard can reflect a cleaner and more modern look.

Tip: Design a stairway if your tiers run the full width of your yard.

Image Credit: Renee Grayson

9. Go for sleek paving

If you want a contemporary style for your multi-levelled space, this concept might be your best bet! Incorporate your ideal garden paving ideas into your levels and create a cohesive finish to achieve a polished and fuss-free look.

10. Multi-levelled secret garden hideaway

A hidden seating spot adds a sense of discovery to this outdoor space. Thanks to this house’s tiered plot, it created a sense of intrigue in the garden, breaking up the line of sight.

The wide stone steps then reveal a space for a cosy nook.

11. Modern landscaping with planters and grass on different levels

Having planters and grass all on different levels looks amazing. Adding water features and LED lighting would look magnificent – just like in this modern garden landscape.

12. Incorporate a waterfall

There are tons of garden water feature ideas available out there, and this one is one of our favourites! The owners of this tropical yard used the height of their hill to create a sensational waterfall.

This is great if you want to have your own private oasis.

Image Credit: Pxhere

13. Level up your decking

Add multi-functional steps to your deck as part of your tiered garden idea; just take inspiration from this. Decking is often used to raise outdoor furniture off the ground, but this versatile landscaping feature created more tiers than just one.

Check our garden decking ideas for more inspiration!

Image Credit: Pxhere

14. Tiered retaining wall

A retaining wall like this can make a sloping property more functional. It gives the opportunity to create a dedicated planting area behind and along the wall.

Plus, it reclaims a part of the yard for an expanse of grass on level ground.

Image Credit: Flickr, Redi-Rock International

15. Give your pool its own level

For you to achieve a great outdoor space, just model your space on this garden. A swimming pool incorporated into a tiered garden gives a whole new meaning tof luxe, taking your outdoor entertaining to the next level.

Image Credit: Pxhere

16. Front yard hill landscape

Levelling a garden in the front of your house can make a striking first impression. This front yard features modern linear designs, bringing something new not only to the garden but to the overall property.

17. Sink it down

A sunken pool will always be chic, and this luxury villa proves it! A sunken design like this offers a sense of privacy from the house with a luxurious, spa-like vibe.

Surround with pale, rendered walls and add a bench for a contemporary twist.

18. Devise a fire pit destination

No multi-level garden is complete with a fire pit area; it makes the yard even more functional, especially in the colder months. A simple style like this is sure enough to draw guests through your yard and make the most of it into the late evenings!

Image Credit: Flickr, Jack Pearce

19. Steps lined with modern planters

Have a look at these steps in tones of grey, contrasting beautifully against bright green ferns and grasses. The clever design features keep the look light and modern.

The white walls help bounce light around the area, making the space feel larger.

20. Disguise a slope with shrubs

If you’re looking for a natural way to hide your plain sloped area, this might be the perfect solution for you! Soften the boundaries with shrubs and other planting material.

Try a few design tricks to keep the look cohesive. Or transform your space into something like this.

Image Credit: Flickr, F.D. Richards

21. Define it with an arch or entrance

Sculptural elements are perfect for adding a creative touch to any backyard setting. In this photo, the designer of this space used a rusted steel circle instead of a classic trellis to create an entryway to a garden.

Image Credit: Flickr, cultivar413

22. Create a focal point

Whether you use your backyard for entertaining, as an outdoor kitchen, or for your gardening, don’t be afraid to go bold. Add something monumental and create a focal point in your yard space.

Take a cue from this monolithic fire pit; it divides the backyard into different sections.

23. Add a source of shade

For you to enjoy your space, especially in the summer, it’s important that your lounging or reading nook area has enough shade. You need to protect yourself against the harsh UV rays; adding a pergola or a gazebo, will do the trick.

If you want something more natural, you can opt for big trees. Read our garden shade ideas next!

Image Credit: WikiMedia Commons

24. Friendly bamboo plants for privacy

Privacy is a must in rural gardens or places where neighbours and passersby can easily peek through your property. This is particularly essential for tiered gardens.

Privacy solutions come in many forms to suit your needs, but a simple bamboo planting like this works wonders.

Image Credit: Flickr, Ivy Dawned

25. Offer a view at all levels

Here, we present to you the real head-turner-tiered garden idea on the Internet! This gorgeous design has to be one of our top favourites.

The dramatic use of levels indeed works in a multitude of ways. We truly love the look! I mean, who wouldn’t?

26. Cover with artificial grass

Artificial grass ideas are a hassle-free way to add lush turf into tiered landscapes. Cover every other level with a faux lawn, preferably on the first and third levels.

Grow actual plants on the second and fourth levels or vice versa. Either way, this arrangement will make your setup more interesting.

Image Credit: Tree People

27. Tropical and seaside

Turn your awkward sloped part of your garden for accent succulents and pots. Blur the borders with tropical elements, such as palm trees, for a striking mix of seaside and tropic vibe.

Here’s to a fresher, greener and lusher outdoor space!

Image Credit: Rawpixel

28. Squeeze in a vegetable patch

If you mean to keep a veggie garden on your sloped plot, a tiered design offers convenience. Plant your vegetables across the slope using contour rows, terraces, or raised beds.

Indeed, a natural way to make a feature out of a hillside garden.

Image Credit: Flickr, allispossible.org.uk

29. Make a terraced garden

A terraced garden can look amazing both when viewed from up and when admired from below. Add a series of retaining walls to divide the space into sections. Each level can also showcase various plants and can be further landscaped in its unique way.

Image Credit: WikiMedia Commons

30. Cosy seating areas among the planters

With a steep slope, chances are there’s less space for sitting areas and other features you’d normally have in a flat yard. But you can overcome this challenge with a bit of creativity.

Take a cue from this small hillside backyard. The owner created raised beds that can double as benches (built-in ones).

Image Credit: Geograph UK

31. Trees as focal points

A sloping garden with trees can give off a dreamy look and more of nature. Add a path that twists and turns, following the slope and winding down between the trees. An incredible setting for an organic landscape design.

Image Credit: WikiMedia Commons

32. A mix of steel

If you’re not a big fan of stone or gabion walls, consider using steel in your tiered garden. This is especially ideal if you live in an area with an arid climate and dry landscape.

The weathered finish fits nicely, while giving your sloped plot a modern look.

33. Play with planting height

Take this opportunity to play around with planting height and add an interesting scope to your plot. Use climbing plants and structures in a more dynamic and design-led way.

Image Credit: WikiMedia Commons

34. Opt for low maintenance planting scheme

Maintaining plants on a slope is a difficult task for obvious reasons. So look for plants that suit the soil conditions that don’t need a lot of maintenance. This is also a great way to introduce a minimalist garden approach to your space.

35. Less is more

Speaking of minimalist technique, have a look at this simple landscaping. The design is perfect if you prefer order combined with low maintenance benefits.

The use of space, pristine hardscaping, restrictive planting, and formal water features = perfection! See our minimalist garden ideas for more.

36. Use screening for privacy

Garden screening ideas can offer both privacy and shade in any yard setting. Tiered or sloped gardens are no exceptions.

Use taller trees and shrubs on lower terraces to effectively screen the upper areas. This ensures that the view from the neighbours’ upstairs windows are blocked.

Image Credit: Flickr, Gary J. Wood

37. Stonewall for interest

Garden walls, such as stone walls, can add interest and provide a backdrop for the plants. The walls also create small pockets to grow drought-resistant plants, which is a plus for green thumbs.

It’ll also look amazing when paired with other rock garden ideas.

Image Credit: WikiMedia Commons

38. Plant ornamental grasses

Ornamental grasses are great for slopes. The added angle feature provides a cascade effect when the wind blows them.

If you’re thinking of growing them, most prefer well-drained soils. Native species, in particular, are well adapted to enduring sunny slopes.

Image Credit: Flickr, Dinesh Valke

39. Let the grass grow longer

Mowing a lawn on a sloping garden is a challenge, so why not opt for leaving the grass to grow longer? This is brilliant for wildlife.

A wildflower meadow mix into bare soil also makes a great alternative. In no time, the flowers will be up, and the slope will look naturally astounding.

40. Separate the borders with a staircase

Dividing a long, sloping plot is important to avoid the uninviting ‘corridor’ effect. Breaking it up with horizontal lines like a staircase is a great idea. Garden stairs can be both functional and decorative landscape features.

41. Create a defined route

Position steps at alternate ends of each terrace to create a defined route through the yard. Choose a pathway design that suits your plot condition to add interest and drama.

Image Credit: Geograph UK

42. DIY sloped water feature

Take a look at this genius upcycled water feature made from watering cans! Water runs downhill, and this innovative DIY makes a great addition to the sloping plot. A great and creative way to make use of the old cans and put them on display.

43. Introduce a play area

Imagine how much fun the kids will have in this sloped playground haven! If the space allows, leave some space to install a slide and a mini white sandbox. This contemporary design is our favourite and ideal for a natural slope backyard.

Image Credit: Geograph UK

44. With cascading waterfall

Having a sloped yard gives you endless opportunities for creating waterfalls. Take this cascading waterfall design, for example. It’s something you’d love to have in your own backyard – and surely boost your property’s curb appeal in an instant!

45. A budget-friendly path

Installing simple wooden supports is a quick and cost-effective way to build steps into a slope. Here’s an excellent example of loose stone stairs to accommodate an upward plot. You can either fill the steps with gravel or use topsoil for a cheaper option.

46. Create a flower trail

Create a lush and striking point of interest with a beautiful flower trail through your sloped yard. Best for cottage gardens, what a magical trail to walk through every morning! Add solar lights for a fairytale-like glow in the evening.

Image Credit: Pxhere

47. Grow using pallets

It’s never too late to grow fresh greens in your sloped backyard. There’s always a find, and pallets are a great starting point.

You don’t have to fill your plot completely, a few rows will do, especially if you’re a beginner. Take a cue from this simple design. It provides ledges to help plants establish their roots and stabilise the soil.

48. A dedicated picnic area

Choose the best spot for garden picnics. It could be at the centre, or the higher level, or maybe at the bottom near the fire pit. Anyway, as long as you’ve got the best garden picnic setup ideas, you’re good to go!

The BillyOh Modbury might be the picnic table you’re looking for!

Image Credit: Public Domain Pictures

49. Budget shade garden on a slope

Your shade garden must feature annuals, perennials, and shrubs that offer lush foliage without needing full sun. Choose somewhere in your yard, such as under a tree or beside a building.

Grow hosta, painted ferns, coral bells, and Astilbe for a natural, work-with-nature approach.

50. With a sheltered seating area

This sheltered seating area sure looks cosy and private. The setup would be great for anyone on a tight budget and with limited space.

If you don’t have any bricks handy, you can make the retaining wall from rocks or reclaimed wood instead.

Round-up

With the right planning and a list of ideas like ours can help you make your steeply sloped backyard into an enjoyable and deluxe entertainment space! And if you want to draw more attention, other than lush plants, decorate your space with a pergola, garden pond, or a garden building.

If you love this guide and want more inspiration, take a look at our sloping garden ideas. We’ve compiled our favourite inspiration from around the web for you to get started on designing your slope.

Stay warm in your tiered garden with a BillyOh firepit, just click the button below:

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FAQs

A cozy corner in the country house and in the garden: photos and ideas for hedges, beautiful fences of bushes and trees in the country house

Turning a site into a secret garden, securely hidden from outsiders, is not so difficult. Of course, you can hide behind a high fence, especially since there are many ways to make it interesting and unusual.

But I propose to create a more romantic image of the secret garden, as if descended from the pages of romantic novels or fairy tales. Places, as if frozen in time - and suddenly discovered; carrying a touch of antiquity and traditions - and at the same time promising new discoveries. This image is most consistent with fences made of "wild" raw stone and hedges. nine0003

Dear Garden Associates, Inc.

Outside Landscape Group

A country house hedge is a very plastic and multifunctional way to make a garden closed. Thanks to the varying shape and frequency of clipping—and the varied range of hedge plants—a structure can look very different throughout its length. It can be strict or free, linear or curly, its height and degree of transparency can vary.

There are several ways to create a green hedge. They differ from each other not only in appearance and image, but also in the amount of maintenance effort and, of course, in the size of the space required to accommodate them. Choose the one that best suits your abilities, or combine several at once - this will make the image more interesting. nine0003

SEE ALSO
6 Fences You Wouldn't Have Thought Installed

Amy Martin Landscape Design

Curtains
feral. The image that many aspire to is “design without design”.

Spreading masses of shrubs were a popular technique among the creators of landscape, "English" parks. They made it possible to mask the boundaries of the site and distract from the size of the garden. This technique was especially actively used in urban gardens, which were very limited in area. This time-tested trick is still useful today. nine0003

SEE ALSO
Paradise: The golden rules for planting shrubs in your garden

Princeton Design Collaborative still requires. Although not to the same extent as topiary curly forms. Thickening and rejuvenating pruning will benefit the curtains. It is worth doing it every 2-3 years. Then the shrub will not be exposed from below and will remain dense with a lush, impenetrable crown. In addition, green curtains take up quite a lot of space in width. Therefore, when planting such a hedge, provide space in advance for its growth. nine0017
Sheared fence
A sheared fence can use less space for the fence. With the help of a haircut, you will create a solid opaque green wall from the bushes. However, its height and shape may be different.

On the whole, a trimmed hedge looks more austere and whimsical, but it also requires more attention. But, if you take the time and effort, you can create unusual curved or geometric lines and sculptural shapes that will decorate your garden. nine0003

Hoi Ning Wong

Idea: Hedges that combine plants with different foliage colors look decorative. They can be alternated, forming stripes, or placed in front of a solid high green fence, a low sheared border with a different leaf color. A high sheared hedge will be an excellent background for standard trees and bushes, as well as for sculpture and all kinds of decor.

Laara Copley-Smith Garden & Landscape Design

Vertical gardening
The currently popular method of decorating hedges with plants provides really wide and varied possibilities for landscaping. You can combine decor with usefulness and plant garden plants and herbs in tiered boxes. Or use mosses, ground cover plants and annuals to create bright and colorful living pictures.

Trellising trees and shrubs
An even narrower hedge can be achieved by shaping trees and shrubs on a trellis. This growing method produces the thinnest of hedges. Transparency will depend on the chosen pattern and formation density. In any case, a trellis fence will be more permeable than other forms of fence, especially in winter. Therefore, you can supplement it with a fence, against which its ornamental pattern will look especially advantageous. nine0017

Dear Garden Associates, Inc.

Julie Moir Messervy Design Studio (JMMDS)

Creepers on a trellis
But the fastest way to create a hedge is definitely vines. They will not be leaders in protection from prying eyes, so if you have such a fence around the perimeter of the garden, it is also good to complement it with a fence. But a wall of fast-growing vines will perfectly serve as a screen for zoning the site and will not require much hassle. In a couple of years, your garden will be decorated with lush masses of greenery. nine0003

SEE ALSO…
Living Screen: Plants That Provide Privacy

Dennis Mayer - Photographer

Mix and match just one type of green hedge In a closed enclosed garden, a combination of strict, well-balanced lines looks good - a sheared hedge or a trellis: they create an image of security and reliability, give the impression of free lush masses of vegetation - they will give the atmosphere a relaxed atmosphere. nine0003

Think about the layout
Planning the site is a very important step in creating a romantic indoor garden.
And immediately good news for the owners of small plots! It is easier to create an atmosphere of solitude and contemplation in a small space - it seems to have been invented to embody the image of behind-the-scenes closeness. But in this case, do not try to fit everything here at once. In the garden for a serene rest - not a place for fuss. Therefore, if you have a large family and diverse needs, pay attention to thoughtful zoning. nine0003

Andrew Renn

Divide a large garden and a garden with a variety of functional tasks into separate closed zones - then there will be a place for all family members and the opportunity to create corners that are completely different in mood.

Tip: Try to keep as far away from each other or as possible isolate areas that involve activity and noisy activity from places of rest and relaxation. For zoning, use all the features of your site: existing and, in particular, planned buildings, terrain, screens and hedges. nine0003

Hoi Ning Wong

Consider the house and buildings when zoning
Sometimes - especially on a small plot - it seems that the house takes up too much space. However, any building on the site is an excellent means of zoning, especially when a clear separation of zones is necessary. Buildings make it possible to isolate functionally unrelated sites by placing them in different parts of the site. Moreover, they provide not only visual separation, but also create a barrier to noise and fuss. So, if you can't make your entire garden the focus of silence, set aside one of the zones for privacy, securely protected by a house or other buildings. nine0003

SEE ALSO
Scenic Gorge: Design Solutions for Lot Tightness

Katherine Shenaman Interiors

Use the Garden as a Hiding Place
Old trees (ideally evergreen) with spreading branches and soft, relaxed shade under them will help separate the secluded recreation area from the noisy part of the site. Especially if you complement it with shrubs, which will act as additional visual and acoustic protection. nine0003

Divide the plot with screens
If it is not possible to arrange a buffer zone separating a secluded corner, place a cozy relaxation area with your back to the passable and bustling areas of the site and close it with a screen.
Screens are an excellent zoning element that works both in the interior and in the landscape. They do not take up much space and do not look overly heavy, but allow you to visually separate the zones. Garden screens can be both stationary and traditionally mobile. Use hedges, decorative fences and lattices to divide the garden space in the form of small fragments. nine0003

The Garden Builders

Troy Rhone Garden Design

Use gates for walkways
If you're designing a small enclosed area, use the decorative possibilities of walkways, gates and skylights. Let them immediately set the mood at the entrance to the zone, attract with mystery, invite you to look inside. Decorate the passage with vines - climbing roses, princes and clematis twining the gate look very romantic. Or arrange a passage to a secluded area with a pergola. nine0003

SEE ALSO…
Just repeat: How to design a gate with leftover PVC pipes

Create intrigue
Let some accent touch, interesting and intriguing, be seen through the passages or the gate. Whether it will be a brightly flowering flower bed, or a shrub with unusually colored foliage, a sculpture or a fountain - it should create a contrast with the space located outside, should promise a new intriguing image, promise a new relaxing atmosphere. nine0017

B. Gordon Builders, Inc.

Sutton Suzuki Architects

Set up some privacy
Cozy backstage spaces will complement the privacy of your garden's secret corner—or replace it if there's still no room for a dedicated, secluded area.

  • Pergola can also act as a sheltered area. Place soft sofas under it - and a relaxing seating area, closed from the fuss and prying eyes, is ready. nine0170

SEE ALSO…
This is not a gazebo: A pergola in your garden

Groundswell Design Group Inc.

Alexey Kozyr Architectural Studio

  • Pavilions also traditionally help to create a cozy local recreation area. And if you add vines, plant lush shrubs around and place in the back of the site - the gazebo will become a place of solitude that does not take up too much space. Textiles will also be very useful for giving privacy - both as a decor and addition to the gazebo, and as a replacement for it. nine0170
  • A gazebo doesn't have to be traditional - treehouse can be an unusual retreat. Who didn't dream of this as a kid?

SEE ALSO. ..
Garden Corner: Pergola or patio, terrace or armchair?

katie moss landscape design

  • Creeper-covered swing or bench – a gazebo in miniature. Place them as a decoration and a relaxing element in a dedicated, enclosed corner of your garden, or entrust them to the role of a secluded hiding place. nine0170

Advice: When placing a pergola, pergola or swing, complement the general closeness with open areas. Let the cozy gazebo overlook the wide plane of the lawn or pond. Such a contrast will create serenity and give rest to the eyes.

Fill your garden with details
Turn your little nook into a garden box, closed from the outside, but full of interesting details and experiences.
Use decorative lighting to create different lighting scenarios and whimsical lighting patterns, such as illuminating shrubs, trees and flower beds. Or decorate them with garlands for a touch of magic. nine0003

vgzarquitectura y diseño sc

Lenkin Design Inc: Landscape and Garden Design

Place an object for contemplation in the secret garden - be it a sculpture, a fountain, a plant arrangement or a rock garden. The main thing is that any of them will help you get distracted, switch your thoughts, provide rest for your eyes and create the right mood.

SEE ALSO...
Cherry Blossom: Hanami, or the Art of Cherry Blossom Viewing

Add nuanced details, little surprises, unexpected objects found in thickets and flower beds. Place fabulous images in the garden that will fill it with a very special atmosphere, so that when you come there, you can immerse yourself in your world, different from the surrounding reality. Therefore, when planning a secret garden, think about what image you want to immerse yourself in. It doesn't have to be the old romantic garden I suggested. You can choose your image of comfort and relaxation - it will be a Japanese garden, a sea coast, or even an indoor monastery garden. And small details and accents will help you recreate it. nine0003

SEE ALSO…
Tropical Paradise at your fingertips: Resort on a summer cottage
Visiting a fairy tale: Gardens inspired by literary masterpieces

Burnett "Secret Garden": "Most importantly, she managed to find the Secret Garden, and now she has her own world in which she will do whatever she wants. Even the sun here seemed to shine brighter than outside the fence ... "

Howard Design Studio

COMMENT
Where do you hide from the hustle and bustle of the outside world? Is there a place of privacy in your garden?

Landscaping a small area - the best ideas and tips for successful design. — Home and Garden


Thinking through the landscape design of a small area, you need to consider that such areas have their own nuances in the arrangement, which you should definitely know. Experts offer a lot of ideas that are suitable for small gardens and create a cozy atmosphere. nine0265

How to arrange a small plot?

Developing your own landscape design of a small area, experts advise you to take into account a certain number of rules:

  1. Hide the garden borders, that is, the fence. The easiest way to do this is to use green weaving plants, and in front of them you should plant undersized flowers.
  2. The view part of the garden should be free, for which place a lawn here. Thanks to this, it will be possible to visually increase the space. nine0265
  3. Regularly shaped areas are recommended to be broken, that is, it is better to lay paths and flower beds diagonally or in the form of different shapes.
  4. The landscape of a small area should be planned in such a way as to remove all the corners, that is, it is important to use them to good use, for example, by installing a gazebo or barbecue there.
  5. To visually increase the space, you can divide the site into zones located at different levels. For this purpose, high beds, alpine slides and so on are used. nine0265
  6. Good results can be obtained by applying a "mirror" effect, that is, you need to represent elements in the garden that exist outside of it. A similar result can be achieved with the help of a reservoir.
  7. For landscaping a small area, vertical lines can be used, for example, in the form of tall planters, partitions and screens. Do not overload the area with a large number of plants.
  8. Experts recommend combining materials and using different textures in the garden. nine0265

Trees for a small area

Many beginner gardeners believe that large plants are not suitable for small areas, but this is not the case. In fact, even on six acres, 3-4 large-sized ones will look good, creating comfort. When planting them, it is important to consider that the best view can be achieved when the distance from the viewpoint to the tree is 2-3 trunk heights. When choosing trees for a small area, it should be borne in mind that their number should correspond to the size of the garden. The distance between trees is on average 3-4 m.

A small lot can be landscaped with small hardwoods. It is important to consider what breeds you want to plant and how much. Do not forget about compact varieties bred specifically for miniature plots. They will not only create a spectacular landscape design, but also save space. If desired, you can find miniature varieties of most trees. Be sure to ask what the height and diameter of the crown will be for the seedlings when they grow. Another option for landscape design of small areas is columnar varieties. nine0265

Shrubs for small summer cottages

For small gardens, smaller shrubs should be chosen so that they can fit comfortably in the garden. When describing how to arrange a small plot of land in front of a house, it should be indicated that the following shrubs are the most suitable:

  1. Forsythia. It is distinguished by the fact that in early spring the bushes are covered with yellow and light green leaves.
  2. Japanese rhododendron. The shrubs come in a wide range of colors and they pair well with other plants in the garden. nine0265
  3. Hibiscus. Different types of this shrub will delight with a beautiful color in the autumn.

Small Lot Design Ideas

There are many ideas that can be used to decorate a cozy space.

  1. The foundation of landscape design is the lawn, which creates the perfect backdrop. Use varieties that are resistant to trampling.
  2. Designing small areas may involve planting only one large size. The rest of the landscape design is built around it. nine0265
  3. In a small area, you can plant coniferous crops that will delight with evergreen beauty. It is worth noting that coniferous species have a large number of shapes, sizes and colors.
  4. Garden-collection is popular in landscape design, that is, different plants will be planted in 1-2 copies. More often for collections roses are used.

Design of a very small area

If the area is very small, this does not mean that something original cannot be created on it. Thinking over the landscape design of a small area, consider these ideas:

    1. Herb garden. To implement this idea, a couple of square meters will suffice. Growing herbs does not require special training. Be aware that they love the sun. Use a high bed for planting plants in the ground or group pots.

    1. Ornamental garden. If desired, you can arrange a place for growing vegetables, herbs or berries in a small area. You can plant everything not only in the ground, but also in pots, boxes and other containers that can be installed in tiers. nine0265

How to decorate a small shady area?

If the garden is in the shade, but this would be considered an ideal place to organize a place to relax. Here you can put benches, sun loungers, a table and the like. If there is a small garden plot, it should be designed taking into account which plants can live without the sun. Forest crops are more hardy, for example, hosta is an excellent solution. With diffused shade, cold-resistant perennials can be planted, for example, cinquefoil, cornflowers, wild violet, and so on. nine0265

Design of a site with a slight slope

Even in such an area, original compositions can be created. Landscaping of a small suburban area should take into account the following features:

  1. A sloping area is an ideal place to create an unusual terrace or staircase.
  2. The highest place is recommended to take under the patio, where you can relax and spend your free time.
    3. nine0167 A serpentine path will look original, which will emphasize the steepness of the slope.
  3. If the house is on a slope, trees and shrubs should be planted here. Plant low-growing plants in the lowlands.

Peonies for a border in a small area

Peonies, which are not only beautiful, but also self-sufficient, are an excellent choice for decorating the garden. Landscape design of a small area in front of the house is best done with park varieties of peonies with bright flowers. An excellent choice is Neon litter, in which the bushes are densely covered with double flowers. You can combine peonies with different plants, and in a small area it is recommended to plant deciduous-decorative varieties with small flowers, which should be either higher or lower than them.

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