It’s time to get dreamy.
We’ve gathered our favoritesmall backyard ideasthat make the most of every square inchand nothing is off-limits.
You’ll find there’s plenty of space to get growing, no matter how small your spot is.
Credit: Paul Costello
It can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like.
Frame It
This is for those who love and value their privacy.
Even a narrow alley is given its due with a lane of French hydrangeas opposite a soothing fountain.
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Lydia Pursell
Let this inspire you to create your own backyard alley lined with your favorite flowers and greenery.
Continue the trend and let your backyard speak to its symmetry.
This technique works especially well for boxy or rectangular small backyards.
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Frances Bailey
Set A Table
There’s always room for a little table for two.
Cover it with a small awning or an umbrella to create some shade on those sunny Southern days.
Get Creative
Who says a backyard has to be a series of straight lines?
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Think outside of the box, so to speak, and opt for something more unorthodox.
Like this circular yard.
We have found that too much is rarely enough when it comes to maximizing our backyard.
Credit: Hector Sanchez
Don’t be afraid to pack it full of flowers, shrubs, vines, and more.
It’s all about creating a space that brings you joy.
Just see to it you scope outthe best companion plantsbefore you start growing.
Credit: Alison Miksch
It’ll make the most efficient use of space.
This way, you will never have to worry about cutting the grass.
And if you still want some greenery, place some potted plants and small trees around the space.
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
If it’s a walled-off area, add some climbing ivy.
Group them together for a big impact.
Or spread them throughout the yard in the spots where you feel they are most complementary.
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez
Create A Pergola
Alison Miksch
Build a pergola and they will come.
Don’t even think twice about using up the majority of your backyard real estate for this classic addition.
Go Formal
Hector Sanchez
If you’re the formal jot down, let your backyard follow suit.
Credit: NCAImages/Getty Images
Use this as inspiration to create your own picturesque backyard.
There’s nothing wrong with a classic color palette, especially if it’s green.
It’s only natural.
Credit: Hector Sanchez
Don’t Overthink It
Go with your instincts.
As long as you pay attention to yourplanting zoneand sun requirements, your yard is your oyster.
Do with it as you like and you’ll create a space you love to live in.
Credit: Helen Norman
Build A Deck
Not the punch in to roll in the grass?
Ditch the grass and build a deck on a bed of stone or gravel that utilizes the backyard space.
Try a bigger table.
Credit:Alison Miksch
When the weather is fine, set the table and enjoy a meal outdoors.
Or, maybe you just like having access to fresh eggs.
Or, maybe you just think chickens are neat.
Credit:Hector Sanchez
It will help to keep them occupied and encourage them to spend time outside, possibly for hours.
Plus, greenhouses are just cute.
Organize comfortable chairs and decorative throws to create a cozy spot for conversing around the fire.
Credit: Laurey Glenn
With just a few steps and some firewood (and some safety precautions!
), you’ll have a cozy backyard sanctuary.
Hang Lights
Nothing makes a yard cozier than somemood lighting.
Credit: Laurey W. Glenn
Hanging string lights is an easy and affordable way to add charm to your backyard.
In the dim lighting, delicate string lights recreate the magic of fireflies in the air.
Opt for bigger hanging bulbs, discrete flickers, or even hanging sheaths.
Credit: Hector Sanchez
Birds singing might just be the perfect soundtrack to an afternoon spent in the backyard.
The sound of trickling water is relaxing and the decorative look of the fountain is just as pleasing.
Credit: Getty Images
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Credit:Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images
A hammock is a wonderful summer staple.Credit: Getty Images
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Credit:Marti Neely
Credit: Jennifer Davick; Styling: Elizabeth Demos
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Credit:Van Chaplin
