A small garden does not need less design thinking than a large one. It needs more precision. The plots that feel cramped almost never lack space; they lack a plan for how that space is read.

1. Paths that are too narrow to feel generous

A path under 90cm reads as a gap between beds rather than a place to walk. Widening the main route, even by 20cm, changes how the whole garden is perceived - it signals that the space was designed on purpose, not left over.

• Give the main route a clear beginning and end.

• Keep turns broad enough for two people to pass.

• Use a lighter surface to make the route feel wider.

2. Planting everything at the same height

A flat planting scheme makes the boundary of a small garden obvious. Layering low groundcover, mid-height texture, and one or two taller moments creates depth without adding more plants.

• Start with a low, quiet edge.

• Repeat one mid-height shape through the bed.

• Reserve taller plants for the back or a focal point.

3. Skipping a single strong focal point

Without one clear feature to rest on, the eye bounces around a small space and it reads as cluttered. One well-placed tree, sculpture or seating nook gives the whole layout an anchor.

4. Ignoring boundaries as design surfaces

Fences and walls are usable space, not backdrops. Vertical planting, trellises or even a considered paint colour can add depth without taking a single centimetre of ground.

5. Designing for photos, not for use

A layout that looks good from one angle but leaves no room to sit, store tools or move a wheelbarrow will feel smaller the moment it is actually lived in. Plan for use first, and the garden will read as considered - which always reads as bigger.