How to Create an Outdoor Oasis in a Small Space

The trio of organic orbs add a golden glow to this ultramodern space, and give it an unexpected softness that’s utterly magical. In contrast to tried-and-true stake lights, these unique pieces add an interesting element to the front of the lawn. You can create a similar look with these pebble garden lights.

Instead of sod, try irregular pavers that add texture and visual interest to spaces with small footprints. Fill the spaces between them by seeding your yard with lovely, lush ground cover like this, low-growing and perennial creeping thyme. It's fragrant, colorful in all seasons and hardy enough to withstand foot traffic.

When a multi-level babbling brook with waterfalls and contemplation pools doesn’t fit into your square footage, draw inspiration from this clever city courtyard. Designers constructed a space-conscious steel water feature, creating a feature wall and providing the patio with an enveloping layer of white noise.

These Brazilian walnut woven wire structures create a visual barrier between this wildflower and evergreen yard and function as an outdoor sculpture. As you think about how to interrupt sight lines that are less than desirable, pay attention to how the lines of your barriers can themselves become decorative.