Cambridge, Ontario, properties that have long and narrow yards pose a perplexing problem to homeowners. While this is not the most common layout, a lot of properties have such yards and homeowners rightfully want to transform their landscapes into something more than what is essentially an outdoor corridor. A Unilock Authorized Contractor will be able to create a design for this sort of yard, based on your preferences. In the meanwhile, here are some ideas to help you decide what you’d like from the space:
Diagonal or curved walkways
The last thing you want to do with a long, narrow yard is add features to it that will accentuate this characteristic. A long, straight walkway, running from one end of the yard to the other, for example, will only serve to visually lengthen the space even further. A better option would be to incorporate lines that run counter to the direction of the yard. A diagonal walkway, for example, can provide access to the far end of your landscape while simultaneously emphasizing the width of the property. Another walkway design that can help to visually widen the space is one that incorporates a sweeping curve, thus leading the eye along a more indirect to route to the far end of the yard. Umbriano pavers are a great option for creating this sort of walkway. The smooth, unbroken surface of Umbriano pavers, combined with the light color options in which this paver is available make IT perfect for opening up the space.
Related Read: 3 Design Tips for Sloped Front Yard Landscape in Ottawa, Ontario
Plantings
Plantings are a great way to add character and color to a landscape, however finding the right balance of scale can be tricky. Ground-level plant beds filled with low-lying plants will only make the space feel empty. Tall trees and structures along the edges of the yard will only emphasize the narrowness of the landscape. Instead, consider multi-level terraces that run across the width of the yard. This helps to take advantage of vertical space, without overcrowding the area. Alternatively, consider raised plant beds that break up the rectangular shape of the yard. Because of its strong horizontal emphasis, Lineo Dimensional Stone is an ideal wall unit for constructing raised plant beds for a long and narrow yard, once again helping to visually widen the area.
Playing tricks on the eyes with laying patterns
Likewise, using a paver with long, plank-like shapes, such as Artline, running in a direction perpendicular or diagonal to the direction of the yard can also help to make the space appear more expansive than it really is. The same can be achieved with smaller, brick-like pavers such as Copthorne or Town Hall, laid in a running bond pattern across the yard.
Focal Features
Lastly, there’s a lot to be said about features that make the area appear larger by drawing attention away from the boundaries of the yard. This can mean anything from a water feature to a fire feature, to an elegantly crafted grill island and bar. Consider, for example, adding a Unilock Firepit Kit to the area to focus the attention of guests and create a more useable space.
The title image features an Artline patio with Lineo Dimensional Stone raised plant beds and water feature.