Big ideas for compact outdoor living
A small garden doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or function. With clever design choices and smart planning, even the most compact outdoor space can be transformed into a beautiful, practical area for relaxing, dining, or entertaining.
At Premier Surfacing, we are experts in patios and all types of surfacing. We believe that every garden — regardless of size — has the potential to shine. Here are our top patio design tips to help you make the most of your small garden…
1. Keep it simple
Less really is more when it comes to compact gardens. Stick to a clean, uncluttered layout with defined zones — perhaps a paved seating or patio area, a slim planting border, and a small patch of lawn or gravel. A streamlined design helps your garden feel more open and less crowded.
2. Use light colours for your patio
Opt for lighter paving tones such as cream, beige, or pale grey to brighten your garden and give the illusion of more space. Lighter surfaces reflect natural light, making the area feel airy and inviting, especially important in shaded or enclosed spaces. Indian stone patios are a great way of incorporating this kind of colour palette into your garden space.
3. Think vertically
When space is tight on the ground, look up. Vertical gardens, wall-mounted planters, and climbing plants can all add greenery and texture to your patio without using valuable floor space. You can also hang outdoor lighting or shelves to create height and depth.
4. Go for smaller paving formats for your patio
Large paving slabs can overwhelm a small garden or patio area. Instead, consider smaller stones, brick-style pavers, or decorative patterns like herringbone, which add visual interest without making the patio space feel cramped.
5. Create flow with continuity
Using the same or similar paving materials from indoors to out can help your patio feel like an extension of your living space. This continuity visually enlarges both areas and creates a seamless transition from house to garden.
Let Premier Surfacing help you transform your garden and patio
Whether you want a compact courtyard oasis or a sleek patio for outdoor dining, Premier Surfacing specialises in beautiful, durable paving solutions for gardens and patios of all sizes. Our team of surfacing experts can help you design a space that reflects your style, suits your lifestyle, and makes the very best use of your available space.
We work across Shropshire, Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent and Cheshire, and have years of experience in creating high-quality patios in gardens of all sizes. Ready to make the most of your garden? Explore our patio paving services or get in touch for a free consultation.
