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A winding stone path curves through a vibrant garden with green ground cover, lush bushes, white and pink flowers, leading to a small table and chairs.

A winding stone path curves through a vibrant garden with green ground cover, lush bushes, white and pink flowers, leading to a small table and chairs.

Backyard Landscaping Concept (Tight Urban Space) 1. Layout Shape & Constraints Shape: Rectangular, slightly narrow. Key Constraints: No direct path from one door to the other. A/C unit positioned on the left side. Limited space; must avoid clutter. 🪴 Design Zones ✅ A. Functional Pathway (Essential) Material: Natural stepping stones or poured concrete pavers (irregular shape for natural look). Route: Diagonally or in a soft arc from one door to the other (side door to rear door), weaving gently through the space. Width: Approx. 24–30 inches to allow single-person traffic. Bordering: Ground cover like creeping thyme or Irish moss between stones to soften the look. ✅ B. A/C Unit Screening Plantings: Use narrow evergreen shrubs (e.g., yew or boxwood) or ornamental grasses (e.g., Karl Foerster). Structure: Optional modern wooden slat screen or lattice panel to conceal the unit. Space: Leave a 2–3 ft service clearance. ✅ C. Sitting Nook (Focal Point) Location: Center-right or rear-center (depending on sun exposure). Furniture: One compact bench or two modern chairs with a small bistro table. Surface: Decomposed granite or small patio area with stone pavers. Surroundings: Dwarf flowering shrubs (hydrangeas, azaleas) Small ornamental tree (e.g., Japanese maple, serviceberry) ✅ D. Planting Layers (Perimeter Softening) Tall Layer (Back/Side Fences): Columnar evergreens (like Emerald cedars) for vertical softness and privacy. Mid Layer: Hydrangeas, viburnum, or flowering shrubs Low See more