Functionality is a key element to any good garden design. Even a landscape created as a natural and wildlife-friendly ecosystem should still be accessible for gardeners to rest, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. In an area smaller than 3,000 square feet, incorporating outdoor living elements may seem like a challenge, but this garden makes the most of a compact space, with several spots to get comfortable. See more of this garden and learn about the design here.

The deck seamlessly integrates with the design and maximizes functionality

To create ample outdoor living space, we needed to reduce planting in the rear without making the deck area feel too large or overly constructed. We used similar materials, such as locally sourced hardwood, to match the deck to the house and other surrounding structures, and organically integrated it with the surrounding stonework. This small area has room for chairs, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen, and a dining table, all covered with a pergola. It packs a punch while still providing plenty of living space and remaining cohesive with the rest of the small rear yard.

A semi-enclosed outdoor structure provides privacy and shade

This much-used outdoor space, which we call the shade house, was part of an award-winning exhibit designed for the 2021 Philadelphia Flower Show to demonstrate multiuse outdoor living. Depending on the season and the mood, the shade house can act as an outdoor office, meeting place, secluded reading nook, or play space for our two daughters. Vertical slats create the feeling of height, which is so important in a tight area. These slats also make the inside open and airy, which feels wonderful in summer.

Even on the smallest lawn, folks can gather around a firepit

We had fun using natural materials unexpectedly. The chunky stones around the firepit were flipped on their side to create irregular permanent seating. The firepit itself is an inexpensive bottomless ring, easily found in most hardware stores, that was filled with a layer of crushed stone. We covered it with a patina using wire wool and vinegar. Lounge chairs surround the firepit for cozier seating options in addition to the large stones.