Do you see your small side yard as restrictive? Initially, it may appear like that, but with little ingenuity and careful preparation, your side yard can be transformed into an attractive and practical place that adds to your home’s curb appeal.
We have listed the best small side yard ideas below to alter your space no matter how little, skewed, or cramped it may be. So read on and find everything you need to know about them in detail!
What Is A Side Yard?
The term “side yard” refers to the small strip of property that runs down either side of a house, from the front to the back. These are located outside the main living area of a home and are typically used to keep garbage cans, yard waste, and other such items.
Since most people have a backyard, side yards are rarely used to their maximum potential because they are so narrow (often only a few feet wide). However, you can easily utilize this space well.
Top 10 Functional and Stylish Small Side Yard Ideas
1. Deck
Decking is a great small side yard landscape idea that can be a functional and attractive addition to your home. When the grain is laid horizontally or diagonally across a fully decked floor, the space feels more open. Decks made of wood or composite materials can complement both contemporary and traditional outdoor spaces.
2. BBQ
Why not set up a makeshift barbecue in your tiny side yard? This could be a wonderful small side yard design idea if you want to eat outside but have a small garden. Consider using the side yard for outdoor cooking events to make room for a small outdoor dining table in the main garden area. Whether you want to install a full outdoor kitchen or a grill, this compact area may be made into a comfortable cooking zone with the correct appliances and accessories.
3. Stone and Gravel Walkways
Instead of using walls to separate areas, walkways are one of the best small narrow side yard ideas that use different types of ground cover for unique symmetry designs. The end result is a seamless progression of open areas that flow easily into one another.
4. Pot Planting
Create a side yard container garden by planting in large pots or containers. This is an amazing small side yard garden idea to add some greenery without taking up too much room, and it can be used to cultivate anything from herbs and veggies to small fruit trees and shrubs.
Select containers of varied heights and hues, and cluster them together. Make sure you pick plants that can survive in the shade of your side yard.
5. Patio Seating Area
Make use of your side yard by designing a chic outdoor lounge space, ideal for hosting friends and family or spending quiet time alone in the fresh air. Choose small outdoor patio sets that are comfortable, such as a loveseat or two lounge chairs with waterproof cushions.
Use tall plants or artistic screens for seclusion, and don’t forget the coffee table or side tables for lounging ease. Lastly, add some style and warmth to your small side yard idea with a few throw blankets and pillows.
6. Miniature Oasis
Create a little piece of paradise in your side yard by designing a little oasis. Put a small water feature like a fountain or pond to create a relaxing atmosphere. Create a relaxing space to rest at the end of the day with the help of some well-placed potted plants, cozy outdoor furniture for a small patio, and subdued lighting.
7. Wall or fence
The side yard should always be separated from the street or neighborhood by a fence or retaining wall. This not only increases privacy but also makes one feel secluded. Wood, vinyl, or brick, among others, are just some of the many narrow side yard landscaping ideas available. You can also add instant curb appeal by covering the fence or wall with flowers or plants.
8. Proper Illumination
Consider installing some lights if you want to add a touch of class to your small side yard ideas. Hang lights or install spotlights along the perimeter of your side yard if it is separated from the street by a fence or other building. As a result, you’ll be able to throw night parties and dinners.
9. Vertical Planter
Covering unsightly home necessities like an air conditioner or utility box with a flower wall or vertical planter is an aesthetically pleasing small side yard landscape idea. If you have a little side yard but want to grow some plants, consider growing them vertically instead. This small patio garden idea can be used to grow edible plants and ornamentals like herbs and flowers.
10. Outdoor Storage
Ingenious garden storage solutions can be tried out on a side yard. Even if you don’t have room for a traditional shed, you might be able to DIY the storage you need if you have some woodworking skills. Either way, you can always make the most of your spare yard by installing outdoor racks and other space-saving small side yard ideas.
Ten Easy Solutions to Overcome Side Yard Landscaping
- Before starting construction, ensure your proposed design won’t violate municipal ordinances, such as those limiting setbacks or the construction of buildings.
- Consider creating a shadow for front small garden ideas with plants that do not need direct sunshine if your yard does not get a lot of sun.
- In addition to being difficult to maintain, natural grass typically struggles in shady areas. Instead of maintaining a natural grass side yard, consider installing synthetic grass.
- Build a fence, screen, or trellis to make your side yard more private.
- Keep the same ground cover, hardscape, or plants from your backyard landscaping in your side yard for a unified aesthetic.
- Fill your flower beds or line your walkway with plants that don’t spread too much if you only have a little side yard.
- Use space-saving tall plants like bamboo to add visual appeal without taking up too much room.
- If you have a noisy street or neighbors, a water fountain in your side yard can help muffle the sounds from the outside world.
- Refrain from utilizing this precious area as a dumping ground for yard debris and unused items.
- Think of a side yard as the studio apartment of landscaping, where the emphasis is on form rather than decoration.
Ending Note
With some creativity and forethought, even a cramped side yard can become an attractive and practical addition to your home. The small side yard ideas we listed above are just the starting point for your own unique design.
