Forest Garden’s top tips for bringing style to small outdoor spaces

Spring is finally here, and homeowners are keen to transform even the smallest of outside areas, according to new data from Forest Garden, the UK's biggest manufacturer and distributor of wooden garden products.

Forest Garden

Using data from Pinterest, Forest Garden found searches soaring over the last month for small garden terms, with ‘small back garden’ up 100%, ‘small city garden’ up 90% and ‘small garden design’ up 100%. And Jenny Davis, the head of marketing at Forest Garden, has said that ‘homeowners are making use of every inch of their outdoor space’.

She also noted that, ‘from vertical gardens packed with colourful blooms to cozy seating spaces nestled in the tiniest nooks, homeowners are looking for clever solutions to maximise functionality and aesthetics in limited space.’

And in this article, we will go over some of the most useful concepts and techniques for bringing flair and substance to your small outdoor areas, including Forest Garden sheds and other Forest Garden products.

Slatted Wall Planter One Shelf

Modern small garden ideas

In a small garden, remember that less is more. But that doesn't mean everything should be tiny. Too many small things can make it feel cramped. Instead, go for bigger, standout features to balance things out. Just keep it simple, and you'll hit the right mark.

Living Screen Planter

The sky's the limit

Utilizing vertical space is crucial in a small garden, where often there's more room upwards than outwards. Consider growing plants on walls, training them upwards, or suspending them from structures like trellises, a living screen planter (perfect for rental properties as it's wall-free), or a vertical slatted wall planter.

You can also choose from adaptable vertical structures, such as privacy screens that also double as support for climbing plants as this maximizes both space and functionality in your garden setup.

Linear Tall Storage Planter

Multi-functional fixtures

Creating clever multi-purpose areas is key for an ideal setup. Imagine a space that serves two different functions seamlessly. Consider integrating storage beneath bench seating instead of opting for separate garden furniture. Raised beds or linear planters can also double as dividers, maximizing both space and utility.

For example, Forest Garden's fold-down garden bar not only offers a fantastic entertaining area but can also be neatly folded away when not in use, nearly blending with the wall.

Fold Down Wall Bar

Finishing touches

A tree for a small garden is also an invaluable addition to any outdoor space, even in a small garden. Not only does it draw the eye, but it also attracts wildlife and can be beautifully adorned with solar lights. Garden designers consistently advocate for incorporating trees into small garden designs.

Furthermore, mirrors and reflective surfaces can work wonders in creating the illusion of a larger space.

Likewise, in small garden spaces and courtyards, every decision, and every inch matters. By applying fundamental design principles, even the tiniest courtyard can be transformed into a lush, welcoming retreat, with focal points guiding the gaze and vertical gardening techniques maximizing space.

Trellis Planter

We hope this article has helped you understand more Forest Garden and how to bring style to any small outdoor space. If you’re interested in viewing our wide range of Forest Garden products, from small garden sheds to fence posts, you can view our brand page here.

However, if you have any more questions about your outdoor space or would just like to know more about the products we sell at Howarth, we offer helpful advice from our Customer Service team who may be able to advise you further, and you can contact them on the number 01472 907051.

Or if you’re interested in checking out our wide range of garden landscaping products, you can access the category here, and you can visit us in branch for more information.