Thinking Big in Small Spaces

1.     Soften the inside-outside line

The transition between the indoors and your home’s exterior is the perfect opportunity to increase the size and functional scope of an outdoor living space. Lay a paver patio flush against your main living and dining area and install glass sliding doors for visual continuity between the spaces. Ensure an uninterrupted flow from the door to the patio, or courtyard, by keeping the area clear of large planters and bulky furniture to allow movement and calm. A product like UrbanStone’s ‘Terre’ stone pavers can be used both indoor and outdoor and can provide a seamless transition between the two – extending the sightlines further and creating the illusion of depth and grandeur. 

2.     Define outdoor “rooms”

Create inviting corners or separate areas by distinguishing them with paver borders, different paver colours or pattern changes (think the ever-classic herringbone lay). Install a small stone step leading to an elevated dining area, or create a statement border using pavers, brickwork or stone, such as Austral Bricks’ architecturally inspired Hamlet range, to delineate an area dedicated to entertaining or relaxation. A low half wall can be used to break up your “rooms” and maximise the feeling of space. 

3.     Size does matter

If you want to make a small garden look bigger, consider laying large-format paving to create the illusion of more space. Large tiles with fewer, or less noticeable grout lines create a sense of flow, as well as providing an uninterrupted outlook which can make an area appear bigger than it actually is. Small tiles, while beautiful and better for more detailed applications, can give the impression of a busier space and draws the eye to the grout lines, rather than the area as a whole. 

4.     Create levels

Retaining walls are a fabulous way to create slight elevation between one area and the next, creating a visual division of space while enlarging and expanding, rather than making a space feel smaller. Creating interest and a designer quality, they can also double as seating, extending the liveability of an outdoor space, especially coming into the entertaining season. Products like the ‘Heron’ and ‘Hayman’ retaining wall ranges from Austral Masonry are perfect for these applications, with DIY friendly options and a range of colours and finishes to complement the other elements in your outdoor space.

5.     Throwing shapes

Your outdoor area may be small, but it doesn’t mean it can’t be big on style! Instead of block paving, get creative with curved edges. The stylised application can actually trick the eye into making a petite area appear more expansive, creating an extra level of dimension and a sense of architectural continuity. By beginning with the widest section closest to the door and tapering it gently as the space recedes, you can create the optical illusion of space with plenty of room for surrounding plantings. 

6.     Create a focal point

You may think your outdoor area can’t afford to give up much-needed real estate, but a statement inclusion such as a stone fireplace or a water fountain can create an inviting ambiance and an eye-catching focus. Place seating around your fireplace or water feature to encourage intimate gatherings and enviable entertaining options for every season. A firepit crafted from Bowral Bricks’ Highlands range or a textural, statement product like Austral Masonry’s Arrinastone concrete block creates a talking point that will take your outdoor space to the next level. 

7.     Go neutral

Lighter, monochromatic shades give the illusion of expanding small areas. Choose a base of neutral stone or porcelain pavers, such as UrbanStone’s ‘Elegance’ range in Pearl, for a sophisticated and serene option that reflects the summer sun and brightens up your space. Adding to a feeling of openness, creams and light greys will always be in style, as well as having the added bonus of being easy to maintain. 

Your alfresco area may be on the smaller side, but that shouldn’t limit its potential. Using smart paver applications and design elements, your compact area can become an inviting haven that will have you looking for any excuse to enjoy the outdoors. 

“Whether you have a petite patio or a compact courtyard, utilising pavers, bricks and stone to extend your outdoor living space is a clever way to maximise usage in even the most miniature of backyards. ”

“Whether you have a petite patio or a compact courtyard, utilising pavers, bricks and stone to extend your outdoor living space is a clever way to maximise usage in even the most miniature of backyards. ”