Urban

The layered planting in the large bed obscures the seating area from view. A path, softened by mats of Ophiopogon planiscapus, Soleirolia soleirolii and Viola hederacea, slows down the journey to the end of the garden

How to create a Japanese-inspired small garden

The deep beds are crammed with a complex tapestry of perennial interest, with an emphasis on foliage that ranges from the fresh, grassy growth of Hakonechloa macra to the deep-plum leaves of Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’.

Planting for a dry and shady urban garden

Designer Emily Erlam has created a gentle journey along a plum-coloured brick path that winds its way via intimate seating areas among a mass of evergreens and shrubby trees underplanted with perennials, grasses and bulbs.

How to create an inner-city minimalist garden

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Small garden ideas: Andy Sturgeon's urban garden

By placing the furniture at the rear of the space, Stefano gave his clients a new perspective on the garden. A large Cornus kousa var. chinensis behind the sofa provides privacy and a sense of enclosure, complemented by the branches of an overhanging magnolia.

New planting ideas for small gardens

A small north London garden by Arne Maynard

Gardens Illustrated photographers pick their favourite images of 2020

Erik Funneman garden, Amsterdam

How designer Erik Funneman maximised space in a small city garden

Barbara Samitier-designed wildlife garden

A wildlife-friendly garden for lovers of mid-century design

Ula Maria garden in east London

A small east London garden with a characterful and relaxed design by Ula Maria

Tree ferns underplanted with Hakonechloa in Adam Sykes London Garden

Exotic planting brings Californian style to Adam Sykes’s London garden

Jane Brockbank's gravel garden

A gravel garden with naturalistic planting from designer Jane Brockbank

Alasdair Cameron's small garden with green foliage in London

A tranquil urban sanctuary in central London designed by Alasdair Cameron

Harris Bugg small garden in St John's Wood

A small garden designed by Harris Bugg Studio

A south London garden designed by Sheila Jack

An elegant retreat in a small garden in London

Omved Gardens in north London

A diverse eco habitat in a corner of north London