1. Create movement by using contrasting shapes.

Employing a mix of mounding, conical, and ground-hugging plants fosters a sense of movement. The eye is drawn to and settles on different places, making an area feel spacious, full, and dynamic.

2. Soften an area with curves.

A curved bed works well to soften a space and to create depth, especially when the area is defined by straight lines. Curves encourage visitors to meander and slow down, which also makes a small space seem bigger.

3. Use a single plant as a focal point.

Although it is a well-accepted design principle to plant in multiple, odd-numbered clusters, there’s no substitute for a lone specimen plant in the right location. Here, the regal burgundy ‘Beni-otake’ Japanese maple (Acer palmatum* ‘Beni-otake’, USDA Hardiness Zones 5–8) serves two purposes: It blocks an unattractive view of the garage from the house and creates a striking visual impact.

4. Repeat colors to establish harmony.

The repetition of colors pulls a garden together and creates a calming effect—especially in a small space, where too much color can be jarring. Here, ‘Aureola’ Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’, Zones 5–9) weaves together with Bowles’ golden sedge (Carex elata ‘Aurea’, Zones 5–9) to achieve a unified look.

5. Contrast textures to add drama.

Although it is acceptable to combine plants with similar textures, you can increase interest and excitement by using plants of dif­fering textures: grassy blades, large and small leaves, and needles, for example. Also, strategically placed planters with varied surfaces add pizzazz.

Lynn Felici-Gallant is the associate editor.

Photos: Danielle Sherry; courtesy of Raymond and Cherry Ong