Small backyard landscaping ideas to maximize your space
By Francesca Singer•Last updated Jun 2, 2023
Last updated Jun 2, 2023
Table of Contents
- Build a small patio outdoor seating area
- Install a raised garden bed with a rock or brick border
- Build a vertical garden using trellises or wall-mounted planters
- Install a small water feature to add tranquility to your space
- Add a pergola or arbor to provide shade and support for climbing plants
- Build a deck to add extra space for outdoor living
- Lay a pathway made of gravel or stepping stones
- Create a small, cozy seating area
- Install a fence or privacy screen
- Create a small pond or water garden to add a touch of nature
- Add a small fire pit surrounded by seating
- Create a small zen garden with rocks, sand, and succulents
- Install a greenhouse or cold frame to extend your growing season
- Build a small outdoor kitchen
- Get free estimates from local landscapers
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This guide was reviewed by landscape designer Bret Douglas of Iron Clad Landscape Management
Whether you prefer backyard solitude or you host guests regularly, your outdoor space is a valuable resource — even if you have a small backyard. From birthday barbecues to drinking your morning coffee in the great outdoors, it takes some thought and planning to make your small space comfortable for any activity. Although small spaces take a little more forethought than larger ones, all landscaping projects can add value and interest to your home.
Are you ready to maximize the limited amount of space you have? Here are some small backyard landscaping ideas to help you out.
Build a small patio outdoor seating area
Building a patio is a great way to add extra living space to your backyard. Choose a flat area and decide how large you want the patio to be. You can use materials like bricks, pavers, or natural stone to create the surface.
Install a raised garden bed with a rock or brick border
A raised garden bed can create a focal point in a small backyard and give you a place to grow herbs, vegetables, and flowers. A border of rocks or bricks helps define the bed and gives it a more polished look.
First, find a spot in your backyard that gets enough sunlight and is easy to reach for watering and maintenance. Then build or install the raised bed and fill it with the soil and plants of your choice.
Build a vertical garden using trellises or wall-mounted planters
Vertical gardening is a smart strategy for landscaping a small yard.
First, find a spot that works for mounting trellises or wall-mounted planters. Then fill the planters with soil and plants that will thrive in your climate and growing conditions.
A trellis adds interest to a small garden and can help it feel bigger. It can be made of wood or metal and covered in climbing plants such as vines, roses, or wisteria.
Install a small water feature to add tranquility to your space
The sound of running water can add a peaceful ambiance to your outdoor living space. The main consideration is finding a location near an electrical outlet. You can use materials like stone, metal, or concrete to build the fountain or water feature.
Add a pergola or arbor to provide shade and support for climbing plants
Pergolas and arbors can add beauty and functionality to your backyard by providing a shaded area for outdoor dining or relaxing. They also create a support structure for climbing plants.
These additions are a perfect complement to a small outdoor patio. You can use wood or metal to build the structure and add climbing plants like roses, clematis, or ivy.
Build a deck to add extra space for outdoor living
Building a deck is a common way to create additional outdoor living space in a small backyard.
Choose a spot in your backyard where you want to build your deck or platform. You can use wood, composite decking, or other materials to build the structure. Make sure to use a level to ensure that your deck or platform is even.
Lay a pathway made of gravel or stepping stones
Adding a pathway can help define your small backyard and make it easier to walk through. You can lay a hose down to visualize how the path will look in your backyard and determine the length and width of your pathway.
When using hardscaping materials like gravel, stepping stones, or natural stone, use a level to make sure the pathway is flat and even.
Create a small, cozy seating area
One of the most common small backyard landscaping ideas is adding a seating area for outdoor dining or relaxing.
If you don't have a patio or deck, you'll want to create some sort of foundation and barrier with gravel or mulch, for example, to keep the seating area free of weeds and long grass.
Install a fence or privacy screen
If you have a small outdoor space, a fence or privacy screen can add separation from your neighbors and provide a bit of coziness and privacy.
Determine the length and height of the fence or screen, then select your materials, perhaps wood or bamboo. You'll also need to set posts, install the fence or screen panels, and add any finishing touches like paint or stain.
Create a small pond or water garden to add a touch of nature
Water features can add a tranquil and calming element to an outdoor space. They can also attract wildlife like birds and butterflies.
First, determine a location for the pond or water garden in your small backyard. Then excavate a hole to fit its size and shape, and install a pond liner. You'll also need to add a pump, filtration system, and any water plants or decorative elements like rocks or statues.
Add a small fire pit surrounded by seating
A fire pit can make a small backyard feel even cozier. In places where the weather is generally mild, a fire pit can make backyard gatherings a year-round affair.
Choose a location with no overhanging branches or power lines, build the fire pit with materials such as stones or bricks, and add seating of your choice around it.
Create a small zen garden with rocks, sand, and succulents
A small zen garden can create a peaceful, relaxing, and low-maintenance outdoor space. Consider this if you want a meditative space to relax and unwind.
A zen garden typically contains materials such as rocks, sand, and drought-tolerant plants such as succulents.
Install a greenhouse or cold frame to extend your growing season
Homeowners who want to enjoy fresh produce year-round should consider installing a small greenhouse or cold frame. You can build either structure using a kit or from scratch. A cold frame should easily fit in your small backyard.
Build a small outdoor kitchen
A small outdoor kitchen is a convenient and stylish way to cook and entertain outdoors. Essential items include a grill or cooking range, a countertop for food preparation, and a sink for hand washing. Beyond the basics, you can install appliances and built-in amenities suited to your needs and budget.
Get free estimates from local landscapers
While everyone likes to dream about potential projects to transform a small yard, not all of us have the time or DIY skills to bring them to life. If you're ready to make a change in your yard, it might be time to download the Thumbtack app and start getting free estimates from landscapers near you.
Note about project costs included or linked in this article: Figures represent national average cost estimates using data provided by Thumbtack pros and additional research. These figures are for educational purposes only and are subject to change at any time due to various factors. Details about your specific project and local rates can impact costs.
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