Courtyards and Patio Areas

Courtyards and patio areas have become an extension of our living spaces with alfresco dining a popular way for families to entertain. It is also a tranquil peaceful setting to escape the hustle and bustle of modern day living. Contemporary architecture and urban living has changed the way we live. Now apartments and town houses are a popular choice and with that, a courtyard garden or patio area replaces the traditional quarter acre section.

Courtyards can be quite small areas, but there are things that can be done to create the illusion of space.

Keep It Simple

Consider the type of furniture, the number of chairs and the type of table that will fit the space without making it look cluttered and hectic. Carry a theme right through - crushed shell, bright colours, dramatic sculptural plants and modern garden art fits in with a trendy café table and chair setting.

Create Space

Walls can be claustrophobic. While they create shelter and privacy, they highlight the fact that a space is small. Try to use similar materials to build walls as used on the rest of the house. Trellis, wooden slats and small openings in walls help create space. Mirrors hung on walls add another dimension to the garden. Garden art creates depth and adds interest. Espaliered fruit trees, camellias, olives and climbers will help to soften a bare wall. Painting the walls in blues, greys and greens can be cool and restful - reminiscent of the sea. Using colours such as orange, reds and yellows will make the area warmer and it'll appear smaller too.

Just Add Water

Water is a vital ingredient. A water feature adds interest, creates a feeling of peace and tranquility and in summer has a cooling effect. There is a preconceived idea that water features are difficult to install, but this is not necessarily true. There are many simple kitset water features available. All they require is to be plugged in. A water feature does not need to be big, but the sound of trickling water needs to be heard.

The Right Plants

Select plants that look good year round. Keep the varieties of plants used to a minimum and repeat them throughout the garden and in containers. It is important that the plants selected suit local climatic conditions. Create a theme and follow it through. If the garden is north facing, it will be hot and dry – succulents, dracaenas, olives, yuccas and cacti are ideal plants for this situation. A sheltered sunny courtyard is great for subtropical plants with different foliage form, texture and colour – griselinia, bromeliads, palms, and bouganvillea blend well to giving a lush effect. Shady areas lend themselves to lush cool green ferns, mondo grass, hostas and buxus.

Contain It

Patio pots and tubs allow plants to be moved around or swapped when they are not looking their best. Citrus, cabbage trees, palms, buxus and dracaenas are ideal for container growing. Planter boxes are good for small spaces and can also double as seats if a wide board is used around the top.

Click here to view a range of Garden Decor and Pots

Less is Best

Whatever style of courtyard or patio you choose, make sure it suits the architecture of the house and your lifestyle.

Small details can make a big difference – create a secret garden, with hidden treasures of garden art, fragrant plants and trickling water - heaven!