We understand not everyone has an expansive yard capable of rivaling the gardens of Versailles, but with a little planning and strategizing you can transform a modest outdoor space into a functional, comfortable area.

Nix the idea that you need a lawn

Just because you can have grass doesn’t mean you need grass. Fill your space with lush plants and flowers instead! The different colors and textures will introduce more visual interest to your garden along with fragrant blooms and cheerful birds. If you want a low maintenance zen escape, consider arranging a rock garden for a peaceful sanctuary. No mowing or pruning required!

Grow fruits and veggies in pots

Perhaps you don’t have enough room to plant a full-blown vegetable garden and raised beds aren’t an option. This doesn’t mean you have to give up on growing your own food. Many varieties of fruits, veggies, and herbs can thrive in pots and planters! Tomatoes, blueberries, peas, lettuce, radishes, carrots, and cucumbers are all great options, just to name a few. Select and arrange your produce based on the climate and sun exposure. Tomatoes love sunshine and require ample direct exposure, while lettuce can prosper in cooler, shadier areas.

Take advantage of vertical plants

Even if you don’t have a lot of square footage surrounding your home, you can still grow a wide variety of plants. Instead of thinking out, think up! Vines and plants that can climb up your home’s exterior, like clematis, wisteria, and grape vines, are great options if you want to introduce more greenery and color to your humble yard. Plant roses along your home’s perimeter for even more color and fragrance.

Grow a natural fence for privacy

Wood and brick fences can close in an area and make it feel confined. Instead of erecting an unsightly manmade barrier between you and your neighbors, consider strategically planting shrubs and dense bushes for visually appealing maximum privacy. Young cedar trees can serve as a solid green wall, although they tend to grow quickly, so keep that in mind if you are working with limited space.

Keep it tidy

Dog and children’s toys paired with gardening tools and gadgets can quickly clutter up any space. Not only do deserted items look messy, they can also turn into tripping hazards. Stay vigilant when it comes to cleaning up, and take out only what you need. It may be time to donate seldom used items or simply invest in some convenient, multi-use storage.

Utilize a storage bench

A storage bench can serve as a source of seating as well as an inconspicuous place to keep toys and tools while they’re not in use. Different sizes and styles of benches are available so you don’t have to miss out when space is a factor, or compromise your preferred aesthetic. Colorful and neutral outdoor-friendly pillows will provide more comfort and add an inviting touch.

Select outdoor furniture that’s easy to move

When it comes to outdoor furniture, go with options that are easy to relocate and reconfigure. Perhaps you want to arrange your seating around a cozy fire pit, or push everything to the side for an impromptu dance party following your BBQ dinner. Heavy, cumbersome couches and chairs can be quite limiting, so opt for lighter options. Streamline pieces don’t always compromise quality. You can have the best of both worlds! Plus your life will be a whole lot easier if you decide to move in the future.

String outdoor lights for ambiance

Make your outdoor space more welcoming by hanging up affordable string lights. These lights can easily be taken down during the colder months, and provide a nice glow for warm summer evenings spent outside. Arrange the lights around your deck or patio, creating a space for conversation. Complete the mood with cheese and wine, plus a portable bluetooth speaker and a cozy throw or two.

Install flush-mount hose bibs

Traditional hose bibs tend to stick out and snag easily, especially when located in high traffic areas and narrow pathways. Replace unsightly, dated sillcocks with sleek House Hydrants, which lay flush against your home’s exterior and provide easy water access. You won’t have to worry about leaks, drips, or freezing because the Hydrants automatically drain and winterize upon disconnection. A simple hose reel provides an unobtrusive place to neatly coil and store your garden hose while not in use.

The sleek House Hydrant V2 blends in with the home’s siding.

Looking for more inspiration? Learn how to elevate your outdoor space

The flush mount V2 saves space on this patio walkway.