Good suggestions overall, though I'd caution a bit on the vertical structures. They're great visually, but I've seen cases where too many trellises or screens actually made smaller yards feel cramped rather than spacious. Sometimes less is more—keeping sightlines open can help maintain that airy feel. Lighting and layering plants definitely help though; subtle uplighting especially makes a huge difference at night. Just something to consider before going all-in on vertical elements...
I get your point about vertical structures potentially crowding smaller spaces, but from personal experience, it really depends on how they're placed. When we first landscaped our backyard, we went a bit overboard with trellises and privacy screens—looked great initially, but soon felt closed-in. After removing just a couple and repositioning others strategically, the yard opened up dramatically. So, vertical elements can still work beautifully, provided they're thoughtfully balanced with open sightlines and careful spacing.
"vertical elements can still work beautifully, provided they're thoughtfully balanced with open sightlines and careful spacing."
Totally agree with this! When we first moved into our custom build, I was worried about the yard feeling cramped. But spacing things out and leaving some breathing room made a huge difference... trial and error is key, right?
I get what you're saying about spacing things out, but honestly, sometimes a smaller lot can push you to be even more creative. When we downsized to our current place, I initially panicked—how could I fit all my favorite plants and still have room for seating? But then I realized vertical gardening wasn't just about balancing sightlines or spacing; it was about creating little moments of surprise and intimacy. Like when we tucked a tiny bench behind a trellis wall covered in jasmine... it's now my favorite spot to sip coffee in the morning.
"vertical elements can still work beautifully, provided they're thoughtfully balanced with open sightlines and careful spacing."
Sure, openness matters, but don't underestimate the charm of cozy corners or hidden nooks. Sometimes breaking the rules a bit—letting things feel snug rather than spacious—can lead to the most memorable spaces.
