tiny space, big impact
The muted, complementary blue and brick red of the banister railing, French doors, and garden bench provide most of the color on this postage-stamp porch. The complex textures of the container coleus, grasses, and impatiens soften the structures’ hard lines and geometric forms. Icing on the cake comes from the black cast-iron “plant balcony” and pure white café chairs. This little landing would be right at home on New Orleans’ Bourbon Street.

Photo by Glen O. Seibert.

don't underestimate understatement
It’s all about texture with this intricate stone patio. Contrast comes from the precise structure and workmanship used on rough, native limestone. The simple mix of white and pink petunias in massive urns is mirrored in the small stone accent bowl, displayed between well-weathered silvery cedar chairs. Bordered with butterfly bush, Miscanthus grass, and old native oaks, this stony island enjoys total privacy.

Photo by Glen O. Seibert.

soften the edges
This tiny porch has lots of straight lines and sharp angles. The unrelated sizes, colors, and shapes of the containers and their many different plants move the eye away from all that rigid geometry. Be careful, though: Eclectic mixes of materials and plants work well in smaller areas, but may be too much of a good thing in a larger garden.

Photo by Glen O. Seibert.

tree-house chic
Who says outdoor living has to be primitive? A stainless steel grill, refrigerator, and loads of counter space create a gourmet kitchen in the trees. This outdoor bistro is ready to cater a lawn party or an intimate dinner for two. The super-shiny surfaces seem to disappear as they reflect the lush ferns, hostas, and other shade plants that surround them. The bright red café umbrellas give a pop of color to this shady glade and echo the warm hues of the rough-cut flagstone pavers. 

Photo by Tracy Walsh.

the power of water
A stone patio virtually floats in this water garden, surrounded by a delightful combination of colors, textures, and sounds. There’s a whole world of aquatic plants to fill your garden. Water lilies and water hyacinth float lazily on the surface; papyrus, pickerel weed, and blue flag iris grow fully submerged but flower above the surface, along the water’s edge. All kinds of creatures are drawn to this lush habitat, turning the simple wicker chairs into front-row seats for an ever-changing parade of life.

Photo by Tracy Walsh.