Absolutely — contemporary design is one of our strengths. Clean lines, architectural planting, quality materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. We use techniques like floating benches, cantilevered steps, Corten steel planters, and restrained plant palettes to create calm, sophisticated spaces. Contemporary doesn't mean sterile — our designs balance hard landscaping with soft, biodiverse planting that brings life and movement. Many of our London courtyard projects and entertaining spaces take a contemporary approach that suits modern architecture and lifestyle.

Often, yes — small gardens benefit most from professional design because there's no room for error. Every plant, every paving slab, every centimetre matters. Our full garden design service includes 3D visualisations so you can see exactly how your space will look before any work begins. Some of our most satisfying projects have been tiny courtyards and terraces in Hackney and across East London where clever design made a transformative difference. We specialise in creating outdoor entertaining spaces that maximise every square metre.

Shade is an opportunity, not a limitation. Our shade garden designs use the rich palette of plants that thrive without direct sun: ferns, hostas, hellebores, woodland bulbs, and shade-tolerant shrubs. We create lush, green spaces with interesting textures and seasonal highlights. Light-coloured paving and mirrors can brighten dark corners. Many of our favourite London courtyard designs work with significant shade — these spaces often stay cool and comfortable in summer.

Several design techniques create the illusion of more space. Diagonal layouts force the eye across the garden rather than straight to the back wall. Larger format paving with fewer grout lines creates a cleaner, more spacious feel. Vertical planting draws the eye upward without using floor space. Mirrors strategically placed can double perceived depth. Light colours on walls and pale paving reflect light and open up dark corners. Our small garden designs combine these techniques to transform even the tiniest courtyards into spaces that feel generous and inviting.

The best plants for small gardens earn their place by offering multiple seasons of interest. We recommend: Japanese maples for year-round structure and autumn colour, evergreen ferns for shady spots, ornamental grasses like Hakonechloa for movement, compact hydrangeas for summer flowers, and climbers like star jasmine to use vertical space. Avoid plants that spread aggressively or need constant pruning. Our planting schemes for small urban gardens focus on plants that look good year-round with minimal maintenance.

Yes, 3D visualisations are included in all our full garden design packages. These photorealistic renders show exactly how your garden will look from multiple angles, helping you understand spatial relationships, planting combinations, and material choices before any work begins. It's particularly valuable for small urban gardens where every decision impacts the overall feel of the space. You can refine the design until you're completely happy before we move to construction.