Five ways to make a small courtyard stand out

Having a small courtyard has many perks. They are low maintenance, more cost effective and it can add so much character to your home.

With the right things in mind, you can transform your small outdoor space into a trendy courtyard and maximise your outdoor living experience.

So, if you’re in the mood for a little DIY, here are five ways you can spruce up your small courtyard.

Flora and fauna

If your courtyard has no plants, then this isn’t doing your courtyard any favours. The good thing about a courtyard is it can potentially be a great environment for both indoor and outdoor plants depending on the level of indirect sunlight there is in your courtyard.

You can turn a negative into a positive by growing plants on your high walls, if you have them. This will create a sense of intimacy and character to the space.

With any plants, trees or flowers in your courtyard, be sure not to over clutter. Depending on the size of your courtyard, sometimes one plant is enough to add scenery. Generally, large leaved, glossy plants love courtyard conditions. Fiddle-leaf, Hostas and Ferns are some typical courtyard plants.

Indoor/outdoor illusion

Any outdoor space should be treated with the same love and care as the rest of the rooms in the house. Usually, courtyards are enclosed to some degree and by creating this outdoor/indoor illusion, it can really modernise the space and take your courtyard to the next level.

There are a few ways you can do this. You can paint the walls or one wall the same as inside the house or plan it so the same floors run through the courtyard and inside, whether that’s polished concrete or floorboards, this look creates space and looks trendy.

Minimalist furniture

Sometimes less is more. To make a small courtyard stand out, use minimal furniture and design to enlarge the space. A courtyard is a place where you can sit down and relax while also entertain. With a minimalist approach, you won’t feel overwhelmed in your place of solidarity.

A small courtyard will thrive off a minimalist design, leaving you feeling more comfortable and stress free.

Re-do the flooring

For those looking for a more in-depth renovation, re-doing the floors of your courtyard will automatically make the area look one thousand times better.

Whether you put down concrete, floorboards or tiles, flooring is a timeless addition to making any space stand out.

It doesn’t matter if you are renovating or building a new home, make sure to discuss with your builder about the best flooring for your space.

Lighting

Last but not least is lighting. If your courtyard doesn’t have much natural light then adding in some light features can really make it stand out. Festoon lights, fairy lights or even a lamp post can add that atmosphere that every courtyard should have. It sets the mood and is also a great hit when guests come over

Not sure whether to renovate or build? Read Renovating vs building: the pros and cons for more inspiration.