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Maximizing Your Outdoor Space


Maximize small outdoor spaces and deliver a big impact for your clients.

September 17, 2024

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As a landscape or hardscape contractor, you’re likely familiar with the challenge of creating beautiful and functional outdoor spaces within limited footprints. Whether it's an urban courtyard or a narrow side yard or a compact backyard, the key to success lies in smart design choices and creative use of materials. Here’s how you can maximize small outdoor spaces, delivering a big impact for your clients.

1. Start with a Purpose-Driven Design
Every square inch counts in a small space, so start by understanding how your client plans to use their outdoor area. Is it for entertaining, gardening or a quiet retreat? Once you’ve pinpointed the purpose, design the space to meet those needs. Incorporate versatile elements like various seating options or a Belgard Elements grill that also serve as borders or dividers.


2. Incorporate Vertical Elements
When horizontal space is limited, think vertically. Vertical gardens and green walls can add lush greenery without taking up ground space. Hardscape features like tall, narrow fountains or vertical stone slabs can add visual interest and a sense of height, making the area feel more expansive.


3. Choose the Right Materials
In small spaces, material selection is crucial. Opt for lighter-colored pavers which reflect more light and make the area feel larger. Using larger-format pavers with minimal joints can create a seamless look that extends the eye, while smaller, intricate patterns can add detail without overwhelming the space.


4. Maximize Usable Space
Look for ways to make every part of the outdoor area functional. If the space allows, consider creating distinct zones within the area—like a dining corner and a lounge space—using different materials or levels to define each zone.


5. Play with Perspective
Small spaces can feel more expansive with clever use of perspective. Incorporate diagonal lines in your pavers patterns or use contrasting materials to create the illusion of depth. Mirrors or reflective surfaces can also help bounce light around and make the space appear larger.


6. Prioritize Low-Maintenance Features
For clients with limited space, low-maintenance landscaping and hardscaping are often key. Drought-resistant plants, synthetic turf and easy-to-clean surfaces allow your clients to enjoy their outdoor space without the burden of upkeep. Consider recommending materials like concrete pavers, which require less maintenance over time.


7. Enhance with Lighting
Proper lighting can transform a small outdoor space, especially at night. Use a mix of accent and ambient lighting to create depth and dimension. Uplighting can highlight vertical features, like the Pro-Trade BUL1 Uplight, while string lights or lanterns can add warmth and a cozy feel to intimate areas.


8. Add a Focal Point
Every outdoor space benefits from a focal point that draws the eye and anchors the design. In small spaces, this could be a water feature, a fire pit or a unique plant. A well-placed focal point can make the space feel intentional and thoughtfully designed.


9. Consider the Flow
Ensure that the design promotes easy movement throughout the space. Avoid overcrowding with too many elements and consider how furniture placement will affect the flow. Pathways should be clear and direct, guiding visitors naturally from one area to another. Consider path lighting for easy visibility.


10. Stay Flexible and Creative
Finally, remember that every small space comes with its unique challenges. Stay flexible and open to creative solutions, whether that means incorporating movable elements, playing with textures or experimenting with color. Your ability to adapt will be key to delivering a design that not only meets but exceeds your client’s expectations.


Maximizing small outdoor spaces requires a blend of thoughtful design, strategic material choices and a keen understanding of how your clients want to use their space. By incorporating these principles, you can create outdoor environments that feel open, inviting, and fully functional, no matter their size. With the right approach, small spaces can have a big impact, turning even the tiniest yard into a beautiful, livable extension of the home.

By focusing on purposeful design and creative solutions, you can help your clients transform their small outdoor spaces into something truly special.

At SiteOne, you have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to maximizing your clients’ outdoor spaces. Find the perfect fit for your needs at SiteOne.com or in store at one of our branches today!