Small garden, big garden attitude

Lucy Willcox's tips for making every inch count

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July 9, 2026 3:45am EDT

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The best gardens aren't defined by their size, but by how they make you feel. Resident garden designer Lucy Willcox believes every outdoor space should feel immersive, atmospheric and alive throughout the seasons.

"I like to create a sense of depth and discovery through layered planting, softened sightlines and carefully positioned focal points. Even in compact gardens, this gives the impression that the space unfolds gradually."

Read Lucy's tips

Lessons in design

Create contrast

To create a truly interesting planting scheme, one of the most important things to consider is contrast in form and texture. This applies not only to your evergreen structure, but also to grasses, perennials and even flower seedheads. A successful planting scheme should feel layered and dynamic throughout the year, with different shapes and textures working together to create visual interest.

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Lessons in design

Use repetition to create rhythm and cohesion

Repetition is one of the simplest ways to give a garden a more considered, designer-led feel. I often use the same plants in groups, typically in threes, fives or other odd numbers, to create rhythm and structure throughout a space. Repeating key varieties allows the eye to move naturally through the garden and gives planting much greater impact.

Shop Lucy's plant list

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No matter the size of the space, I believe a garden should feel atmospheric, restorative and alive throughout the seasons. And often, it's the smaller gardens that can feel the most intimate and rewarding of all.

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