Do you have a small backyard that feels cramped and closed off? You’re not alone. Many homeowners are faced with the challenge of making a tiny outdoor space appear more open and inviting. Bigger isn’t always better, but there are a few tricks you can use to make the most of your small backyard.
Luckily, there are easy ways to transform any compact yard from dull to delightful! In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything from landscaping ideas to furniture choices — all designed for creating bigger-looking backyards with just a few simple steps.
Follow the guideline on how to make a small backyard look bigger, and your small backyard can be transformed into an area perfect for gatherings and relaxation. Let’s get started!
Benefits of a Bigger Backyard
Creating a bigger-looking yard isn’t just about aesthetics, it also has many other benefits. A larger space encourages physical activity, social gatherings, and more opportunities for quality time with family and friends.
Plus, studies show that being around nature can reduce stress levels and even improve mental health. A bigger backyard will definitely offer more space for activities. You can design a comfortable lounge area, an outdoor dining space, or even a fire pit to enjoy on cool nights.
Things to Remember Before Starting
Before you start making your backyard look bigger, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, take an inventory of the space. How much room is available? How much of it can be used for landscaping or building structures? Knowing this information beforehand will help you plan and create more effectively.
Second, consider your budget when planning.
How much of your budget can you allocate to the project? How expensive are the materials and tools needed? Being mindful of this will help to ensure that you stay within your financial limits.
Finally, it’s important to remember that a bigger-looking backyard doesn’t necessarily mean more work. With some clever design choices, a small space can be just as functional and stylish as a large one. Now let’s look at some tips for making the most of your compact outdoor area.
Needed Tools and Supplies
In order to make a small backyard look bigger, you’ll need some supplies and tools. Depending on the type of landscaping project you plan to take on, your list may vary. Here are a few basic items to consider:
- Gardening Gloves
- Shovels
- Rakes
- Hoses
- Wheelbarrow
- Grass Seed
- Mulch
- Plants and Trees
- Patio Furniture
- String lights or Soft Lighting Options
10 Steps on How to Make a Small Backyard Look Bigger
Step 1: Remove Clutter and Overgrown Plants
This step is the most important, as clutter can make any space feel cramped. Clear away any overgrown plants or weeds that are taking up valuable room in your backyard.
Step 2: Open Up Your Space With Pathways
Adding pathways to your yard will open up the area and draw attention away from its size. Installing stone or brick walkways will help to create an inviting feel while also making the space look bigger.
Step 3: Install Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces
Reflective surfaces are a great way to maximize light and make any backyard seem larger than it really is. Hang large mirrors along fences, install reflective tiles on walls or even use a pond or fountain to reflect the sunlight into different areas of your backyard.
Step 4: Choose Airy Furniture
Bulky furniture can take up too much space in a small yard and make it look cluttered. Instead, opt for airier pieces that won’t overpower the area. Wicker, rattan, and metal furniture are great choices for creating a lighter look.
Step 5: Break Up the Space with Plantings
Adding plants to your yard can help break up the space and create depth. Taller shrubs or trees can be used to section off different areas of your backyard while creating a more natural feel.
Step 6: Incorporate Natural Elements
Incorporating natural elements like wood, stone, and pebbles into your backyard will make it look bigger. These textures bring in the sense of warmth and can be used to create an outdoor area that feels spacious yet cozy.
Step 7: Use Vertical Gardens
Vertical gardens are a great way to add more plants without taking up too much floor space. Use trellises, raised beds, or vertical planters to get the most out of your limited area.
Step 8: Install Lighting Fixtures
Proper lighting can make any backyard look bigger and brighter. Incorporate string lights, spotlights, or lanterns to create a magical atmosphere in your outdoor area.
Step 9: Create an Illusion With Perspective
Make use of perspective and optical illusions to give the illusion of more space. Use curved lines or stepping stones that lead away from the focal point, creating depth and making the area appear larger than it is.
Step 10: Be Creative With Hardscaping
Finally, be creative with your hardscaping. Incorporate steps, arches, pillars, and other architectural elements to create a more interesting look. These features can make the area seem larger and draw attention away from its size.
Costing of Making Small Backyard Look Bigger
The cost of making a small backyard look bigger will depend on the materials you decide to use. In general, landscaping and hardscaping costs range from $2 to $18 per square foot, with larger projects costing more. Additionally, any lighting fixtures or furniture you choose to purchase will add to the total cost of your project. You should also factor in the cost of labor if you plan to hire professionals to install or construct any elements.
Professional landscapers typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour, with larger projects taking longer to complete. Overall, the cost of making a small backyard look bigger can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Take time to research your options and plan out your project before you begin so that you can stay within budget.
With the right planning and preparation, you can make a small backyard look bigger without breaking the bank. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create an inviting outdoor space that looks larger than it really is.
5 Safety Precautions to Follow
- Be careful about using open flames outdoors. Never leave an open fire unattended, and be sure to keep it away from anything flammable.
- Keep outdoor furniture, grills, and other items away from the sides of your home, as these can become a hazard for children or pets if left too close.
- Install proper lighting in the backyard, both during the day and in the evening. The darkened areas can create an unsafe environment.
- Be aware of any steep slopes or changes in elevation that could pose as a tripping hazard, especially for small children.
- Make sure all outdoor play equipment is properly secured and up to date on safety codes and regulations. Check often for signs of wear or damage that could be potentially hazardous. Taking these simple precautions can help ensure that your backyard remains a safe and enjoyable place for everyone to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Take Care of Your Backyard?
Taking care of your backyard is an important part of keeping it looking its best. Make sure to regularly mow the lawn, trim trees and shrubs, remove weeds and debris, and water plants as needed. For larger tasks like pruning trees or fertilizing the lawn, it’s often best to hire a professional landscaper who can provide the necessary expertise and tools.
It’s also important to stay on top of pest removal, as insects or animals can quickly damage your plants and create a mess in the yard. Finally, don’t forget to regularly inspect outdoor furniture, grills, and other items for signs of wear or damage that could pose a potential hazard. With a bit of care, your small backyard will look bigger and brighter all year round.
How to Design a Small Backyard?
Designing a small backyard can be tricky, but with the right strategy, it’s possible to maximize the space and make the most of what you have. Start by mapping out your yard and measuring the available space. Then, think about how you want to use the space and what kind of materials or plants might be best suited for your needs.
Consider adding features like seating areas, fire pits, or water features for a unique touch. Finally, don’t forget to make sure that whatever you choose is safe to use in an outdoor space and up to date with safety codes and regulations. With a bit of creativity, you can create a beautiful backyard, no matter the size.
Conclusion
Creating the illusion of a bigger backyard can be a daunting task, but with the right tips and tricks, it is achievable. With a few design tweaks, you can transform your small outdoor space into an area that feels magnitudes larger. Start by utilizing light colors when choosing plants and accessories.
When decorating your backyard try to purchase larger items to make the space appear open and bright. You can also lay out furniture in an ‘L’ or ’U’ shape facing away from the house to create depth, while strategically placing plants throughout will enhance visual interest.
Above all, functionality should take precedence as you want your backyard to be as stress-free and enjoyable as possible! We hope that this post on how to make a small backyard look bigger has been enlightening and enabled you to make your small backyard look bigger than ever!
You Can Check It Out to Decorate a Stump