Every house in the world has a backyard, a vital outdoor space where life happens. In this book the author shows you how to make the most of the area and create a haven of peace (or fun) that is right for you and your lifestyle.

The backyard makes an important link between the house and the wider garden or may constitute the whole garden. Even if the house walls cast shadows for most of the day and the soil is poor, this book has masses of tricks for bringing the space alive with plants and turning it into a green paradise.

First impressions count and the backyard may well have a high proportion of “hard landscape”, or paving of various kinds, which may take the lion’s share of the budget. This makes sound planning and clever use of space especially important. This book shows how to get the area right without expensive changes of mind and with future needs planned.

Review

An imaginative and informative guide that covers everything you need for successfully planning and planting a diminutive space.

(Homes & Gardens)

This book has instant impact...The pictures...are clear, interesting and vibrant.

Easy-to-follow with many smart ideas.

A book with personality.

About the Author

DAVID STEVENS is a highly influential garden designer, writer and broadcaster. He has held the prestigious Chair of Garden Design at Middlesex University and is the winner of 11 gold medals at the Chelsea Flower Show, as well as being author of countless articles and 21 books, including Backyard Blueprints and The Room Outside, and creator and presenter of numerous television and radio programmes. David is a Fellow of the Society of Garden Designers and The Institute of Horticulture. His company David Stevens International undertakes design and lecture commissions throughout the world.