In the heart of London, where outdoor space is often limited, creative garden design can turn even the smallest courtyard, balcony, or terrace into a peaceful, practical escape. At Wicked Gardens, we specialise in transforming compact gardens into functional, stylish sanctuaries — no lawn required.

If you’ve got a modest outdoor area, here are some top tips and garden design ideas to maximise your space and make every square metre count.

🪴 1. Go Vertical

When floor space is tight, think upwards. Vertical gardening creates more planting opportunities without taking up precious ground.

Try:

• Living green walls with herbs or flowers

• Trellises and climbers (like jasmine, clematis or ivy)

• Stackable planters or tiered pots

We can design a fully integrated vertical garden that softens your walls and boosts greenery.

🪟 2. Use Multi-Functional Furniture

In small gardens, furniture should do more than one job. Look for:

• Benches with built-in storage

• Foldaway tables for entertaining

• Raised beds that double as seating

Our team at Wicked Gardens can build custom furniture that fits your space perfectly — stylish, functional, and made to last.

🌞 3. Create Zones

Even a tiny garden can feel spacious when divided into distinct zones.

We recommend:

• A seating nook for coffee or evening drinks

• A small dining space with a bistro table

• A mini kitchen garden with herbs or veg

Defined zones help your garden feel more like an outdoor room — ideal for relaxing or hosting.

🌾 4. Opt for Smart Planting

Pick low-maintenance plants that thrive in containers and raised beds. Some of our favourites for small spaces include:

• Lavender (compact varieties)

• Boxwood topiary for structure

• Ornamental grasses for movement

• Edible plants like thyme, mint and chillies

We’ll help you choose the right plants for your light levels, watering habits and aesthetic.

💡 5. Don’t Underestimate Lighting

Clever lighting makes a small garden feel magical after dark — and more usable all year round.

Ideas include:

• Wall-mounted LED uplights

• Solar-powered lanterns

• Recessed deck lighting

• Festoon or fairy lights for a cosy glow

Lighting can completely change the mood of a small space — and it’s one of our specialties at Wicked Gardens.

🧱 6. Hard Landscaping with Style

Every surface counts in a compact garden. We use paving, decking, and screening to maximise function and visual appeal.

Our small-space landscaping tips:

• Use large-format pavers to make a space feel bigger

• Add mirrors or reflective surfaces to bounce light

• Keep materials light and cohesive for a clean finish

📞 Small Garden? Big Potential. Let’s Design It.

At Wicked Gardens, we love the challenge of urban garden design. From balconies and patios to compact courtyards and side returns, we bring smart, bespoke solutions to every outdoor space.

📞 Call us on 020 8244 7700
📧 Email info@wickedgardens.co.uk
📍 We serve Lewisham, London, and surrounding areas