Enhancing Small Spaces

For Outdoor Enjoyment

Summer is now in full swing and with it comes the joy of spending time outdoors. However, finding the right "spot" to sit and daydream or to observe nature's gifts—from birds and butterflies to flowers and herbs—can be a challenge if a backyard lacks an inviting ambiance or a special area to relax in.

Most homes, apartments or condominiums have at least one small area that is underused and could be beautified to offer a respite from a hectic day. The key is turning this vacant space into something inviting and useful. Typically, there’s an available spot on the side of the house, a neglected patio lying dormant or a balcony in need of attention. But with some thought and imagination, and a few hours of time, easy remedies can turn "forgotten" into "found."

In my own home, a tiny backyard—only 6 ft. by 25 ft.—transformed into a peaceful setting when my husband and I added plants, seating and garden art. We now have a quiet haven where we can sip a cool drink or have a conversation about the day’s events. When my daughter was younger, I read books to her while we sat together on a soothing glider surrounded by greenery.

Perhaps you have an area that could be enhanced. How would you like to use it? For meditating, or dining outside on a warm evening just before sunset? Small spaces offer big opportunities for creativity.

Choose the spot and use as much of it as you can—pushing the boundaries all the way to a fence or walkway, but allowing for a few plants to create a buffer. If you have grass, designate "an area," then define it by using rocks in a circle or other desired pattern. Then lay down pavers to form a curved path leading visitors to this new oasis.

For relaxing outdoors, choose from a variety of seating options such as a mosaic table with two chairs, a garden bench, hammock or glider. Position the seating to capture a pleasant scene and use bright pillows for a punch of color and added comfort.

Group potted plants together, place a gazing ball in a barren corner and hang some wind chimes from a beam to catch an afternoon breeze. Garden art can liven up an intimate location: Decorate with flags, whirligigs, a birdbath or umbrella. These enhancements offer sensual enjoyment for the eyes and ears. And if you thrive on fragrant scents, set out pots of herbs or flowers, which are known for their sweet aromas and vivid hues.

To lure you out to your new area, be sure to keep things tidy. Dust the furniture, trim any weeds and sweep the pavers from time to time. By keeping tables, chairs and other embellishments looking well-maintained, you’ll be enticed to go outside for relaxation. If you have a birdbath, replace water often for those feathery friends coming around for a visit.

With a few creative touches, a small, underused area can be exalted to its greatest potential, offering a place to sit quietly or a haven to share a conversation with a good friend or loved one. Better yet, it will give you the inspiration to grab some lemonade and a good book before heading outdoors for some summer soul-renewal.

Sarojni Mehta-Lissak is a freelance writer from Long Beach, California. Her work has appeared in Midwifery Today, Mothering, BackHome, GRIT, Organic Family, EnergyTimes and other publications. Visit her at: http://www.sarojnimehta-lissak.com/

07/11/07  By Sarojni Mehta-Lissak