When it comes to a small garden, you have to make the most of what you’ve got. Two brothers — who also happen to be a garden design-and-build duo — have found a clever way to make a compact space feel much bigger.
On what looks like a fairly standard Hawkesbury block, most people might have chosen a lawn framed by a hedge. Instead, this backyard has been transformed into a series of garden rooms, creating the illusion of extra space.
Designer Mitch Kushturian from Exotic Living explains, “We were trying to create a garden that creates a sense of intrigue — one that draws you in and makes you want to walk around and explore.”
Clever zoning makes the garden feel bigger
The secret is in how the space is divided. Instead of leaving the garden open, the brothers divided it into four areas, each with a specific use.
When entering the garden, you don’t see everything at once, and that’s what makes it feel bigger.
At the same time, by keeping each section slightly enclosed, they’ve created a cosy feeling for the owner.
“We’re trying to make it feel more intimate and private,” says Mitch.
Inspired by cafés and glasshouses
The client loved the atmosphere of an inner-city café and was particularly drawn to the idea of a glasshouse and fireplace.
The result is a stunning glasshouse that feels like a true destination within the space.
The garden beds are actually raised plastic wicking beds that water themselves, cleverly hidden behind recycled bricks. And the finishing touch? A chandelier, because every glasshouse needs one.
A mix of natives and flowers
While one zone is dedicated to cut flowers, the rest of the garden is predominantly native.
This flower section includes flowering plants such as Buddleia, Echium, and foxgloves. They might feel out ofplace among the natives, but they were important to the owner.
While most of the plants are native, the garden still feels modern.
Mitch explains, “We’ve mixed wilder plants that spill onto the pathways to soften them, and then used round, structured forms to add a bit more shape and balance.”
The result is a garden that feels both relaxed and inviting and bigger than it actually is. Which proves that even a small space can feel generous with the right design.
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