Big ideas for small spaces

There are many techniques to make small outdoor spaces look big. Lakshmi Unnithan Arvind lists out some ideas.

Creating truly outstanding small space landscapes is a speciality. There are some techniques based on which small areas can be landscaped easily. To create outdoor spaces for small areas, design techniques need to be applied in such a way that the area seems bigger.

The ideas are many and it depends on each individual to use his/her creativity according to specific needs. The small areas to be landscaped can either be in the balcony, terrace, pathways of homes, or the front or backyard of the houses. Each design should be separately dealt with, giving importance to the areas specified.

Landscaping ideas

Small spaces have their own limitations. There is limited visual appeal. There are no grand views. Whatever the space, wherever the space, the first thing to do is to retain the view. A small front yard or a back yard will have different views from a rooftop living space. Options such as changing a wall into a wrought iron railing, constructing bamboo screens can be all be taken up. Privacy needs to be maintained in flat type accommodations where houses are close by.

Depending on the area, create many tiny focal points throughout these spaces. Collect and arrange weatherproof objects made of stone, ceramic, glass or metal that can be used as accessories in your space.

A colourful bed of roses, annuals and perennials effectively divides a small area into attractive nooks. Make a focal point or a corner in the small area where you can sit and relax, like a pergola draped with some climbers like roses or clematis. Placing the pergola in the last corner of the area relaxes your eye and helps make the space feel more spacious.

If it is a tropical region, you can take advantage of tropical plants to create a lush feel. Their large leaves and texture can change the scale of a small space to help it feel larger.

They also help to keep the area supercool. Extra interest to the space can be given in the form of cladding and paving materials.

A grand feel could be given by placing small arbours and pergolas to frame a view, but you can also frame the view with shrubs, small trees, or even pieces of garden art. Bright coloured flowering plants can be kept so that the view will soothe your eyes. Because they catch your attention first, the rest of the landscape beyond will seem to recede, helping it to feel larger.

The planting design should be in such a way that the blooms are best sequestered amidst the plants, looking as though they have always been there. The spaces are about visual discovery, when we suddenly see the blooms, amidst the greens. They also offer the joy of surprise. Imagine dining in a garden where these carefully composed surprises are positioned for us.

Design concept

In small spaces, if the designs are not executed well, every fault will be visible. So, as compared to large spaces, the design should be perfect and flawless. It is very important to consider every bit of ground and maximise its detailing and usability. Designs need to be executed keeping in mind the direction of the sun facing the areas or buildings. The designs need to be executed keeping in mind the interior style of the home too.

Precision is key

Small space gardens requires a very precise layout. Add water features, lawns, fire pits, containers for plants, raised planters on walls etc. One should work out all details on valuable opportunities that make the spaces more useful, diverse or attractive.

Construction materials available today are more varied than ever before. There are different kinds of stones available to accessorise or for construction. There is also a wide range of innovative materials readily available for residential landscapes and outdoor living spaces.

Most often, your budget plays a key role in deciding what kind of outdoor space you want.

Your budget also depends on whether you want to use high end or very earthy or natural materials. This should also be in accordance with the interiors done inside the homes.

Always consider your paving materials relative to the interior floor materials to match them as neatly as possible. If you are using marble on the inside, use a porcelain tile that mimics its colour and texture outside. If it is black oxide, consider using terracotta materials outside; if you have Chettinad flooring inside, consider using wood for the outside spaces.

Exceptional designs can be applied wherein the space becomes really delightful. There are many opportunities to integrate the  outdoor lighting system for creative illumination after dark. When it comes to design of small spaces, attend to the details. Design every inch, integrate surprise and splurge on materials. Whether you decide to create a very powerful and exciting small space design or a modern minimalist one, always remember that less is more.

Also, always keep in mind the load the building can take and work out designs based on that.