Depending on which Calgary neighborhood you call home, you may find that your backyard is a little smaller than you would have preferred. Maybe even a lot smaller. We understand it can be disappointing to buy a house you love despite a sub-par backyard, so we’ve come up with some idea to help! While we can’t actually make your yard any bigger, here are some tricks to make it feel larger.

Create Levels.

Utilizing different levels means having raised and sunken areas in your back yard. Perhaps an elevated patio with steps down to a grassy area that is attached to a sunken or raised garden bed. The different elevations separate the backyard into rooms and make the whole area feel significantly larger. This can also be accomplished without changing the levels, but by utilizing short walls, vegetation, and furniture.

Add a Focal Point

By using art like statues or fountains — or even just a large tree — as a focus point you can make your yard seem larger. You’ll want your focus point at the furthest point of your yard — usually on or next to the fence. The focus point will draw the eye to this more distant location and make the yard appear bigger.

Use Mirrors

Just like a mirror can make a small room indoors feel brighter and more spacious, it has the same effect when used outdoors. Hang a mirror on a fence where it can reflect back a long stretch of grass and open space. Not only will your backyard immediately feel bigger, it can also provide interesting illusions! A well placed mirror can almost look like there’s a large opening in your fence to provide a peak into a secret outdoor garden beyond your yard.

Five Star Landscaping is all about helping Calgarians create the yard they want. We hope that these tips are useful in morphing your small backyard into an oasis that feels spacious. If you need any additional help or have any questions, call us today at 403-203-4058.