Clean and simple garden patio space with a shrub border. — *A clean and easy to maintain garden*

Not everyone has a sprawling garden, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of your outdoor space. Whether you have a small backyard, courtyard, or even a compact patio, smart design choices can help make your garden feel much bigger than it actually is.

At ML Rashleigh & Son, we’ve worked on all kinds of gardens, big and small, and we know how to maximise space with clever landscaping solutions.

Here’s how you can transform your garden into an open, inviting, and functional space.

1. Use Levels to Create More Space

A small, flat garden can sometimes feel restrictive, but adding different levels instantly creates depth and interest. You could:
✔️ Add a raised decking or patio area to create a separate zone for seating or dining
✔️ Use sleeper beds to bring height to planting without taking up valuable floor space
✔️ Introduce steps or sunken seating to add dimension and movement to the space

Using levels makes the garden feel dynamic rather than cramped.

2. Think About Your Boundaries

The way you treat your garden’s boundaries—fences, walls, or hedging—has a huge impact on how big or small it feels. A few tricks to open up the space include:
🪵 Choosing slatted fencing rather than solid panels to let light through
🎨 Painting fences in lighter colours to reflect light and create the illusion of more space
🌿 Using trellises or climbing plants to soften boundaries and blur the edges of the garden

At ML Rashleigh, we’ve installed countless fencing solutions tailored to all kinds of gardens. If you’re not sure what’s best for your space, we’re happy to help!

Levels and boundaries in a simple clean and modern garden. — *Levels and borders help accentuate the garden space*

3. Choose the Right Materials

The materials you use for patios, decking, and paths can influence how big your garden feels.
🔹 Lighter-coloured paving stones help reflect light and keep the space airy
🔹 Larger paving slabs or wide decking boards create an unbroken flow, reducing cluttered lines
🔹 Diagonal or horizontal decking boards can make an area seem wider than it is

If you’re planning a new patio or deck, it’s worth considering how your choice of materials can change the entire feel of your garden.

4. Keep It Simple & Uncluttered

A small garden filled with lots of different plants, furniture, and ornaments can feel crowded. To keep it feeling open:
✨ Stick to a simple colour palette for furniture and decor
🌱 Opt for multi-functional furniture—like a bench with storage underneath
📦 Keep pathways clear and use smart storage solutions for tools and accessories

Less is more when it comes to making your garden feel spacious!

Garden with light coloured slabs and stones helping create the feeling of space. — *Lighter stones and slabs create a feeling of openness*

5. Use Mirrors & Reflective Surfaces

Just like inside your home, mirrors can create the illusion of space in a garden. A well-placed mirror on a fence or wall can make the area feel twice as big.
🪞 A large mirror behind plants creates depth
💡 Glossy or reflective surfaces, like stainless steel planters, bounce light around
💦 A small water feature or pond can also reflect light and create a sense of openness

Clever use of reflection can completely change the feel of your garden, making it seem bigger and brighter.

6. Go Vertical with Planting

When floor space is limited, go up! Vertical gardens and wall-mounted planters allow you to add greenery without taking up valuable room. Ideas include:
🌿 Trellises with climbing plants
🪴 Wall-mounted planters for herbs and flowers
💡 Hanging baskets or tiered plant stands

This way, you can still have a lush, green garden without losing usable space.

Simple garden with patio and stone laid with vertical growing plant borders. — *Keep it simple*

7. Define Zones for Different Uses

Even in a small garden, creating separate areas for dining, relaxing, and planting can make it feel more structured and spacious.
✅ A small deck or patio for seating
✅ A gravel or grass area for plants and decorative elements
✅ Clever pathways to subtly divide the space

Defining zones keeps your garden functional without feeling cramped.

8. Let ML Rashleigh Help Transform Your Garden

Making a small garden feel bigger is all about smart design choices, and we’re here to help. Whether you’re looking for a new patio, decking, fencing, or a full garden transformation, ML Rashleigh & Son can bring your vision to life.

Thinking of upgrading your outdoor space? Let’s chat!

📩 Get in touch today and let’s create a garden you’ll love.

How to Make a Small Garden Feel Bigger 🌱