1. Think Vertical: Go Up, Not Out

For small garden design Brighton when floor space is limited, the sky’s the limit.
Vertical planting is one of the most effective ways to make a small garden feel abundant. Living walls, climbing plants, and tiered planters draw the eye upward and soften hard surfaces.

Brighton garden designer tip: Try jasmine, clematis, or ivy on trellis panels — they thrive in Sussex’s mild climate and add year-round texture. Hanging pots or modular green wall systems are great for renters too, as they can be moved or reconfigured easily.

2. Use Mirrors and Lighting to Create Space

Strategic use of outdoor mirrors and lighting can visually double your space. A well-placed mirror on a boundary wall creates depth, while subtle LED uplights or solar lanterns highlight plants and add evening ambiance.

If your garden faces north (common in Brighton terraces), soft, warm lighting helps counteract shade and keeps the area welcoming after dark.

3. Choose Multi-Functional Furniture

In small urban gardens, every piece counts. Opt for furniture that folds, stacks, or doubles as storage.
A built-in bench with storage underneath, for example, provides seating and hides clutter like cushions or tools. Choose lighter colours or natural woods to reflect light and maintain a breezy, coastal Brighton feel.

4. Zone the Space — Even If It’s Tiny

It might sound counterintuitive, but dividing a small garden into “zones” can make it feel larger.
You could have a small dining nook, a planting area, and a lounging corner — each with its own mood or material. Using different textures (like gravel, decking, or tiles) defines each area without feeling busy.

This technique works especially well for courtyard garden designs in Brighton’s terraced homes, where you want privacy and structure without losing flow.

5. Choose the Right Plants for Urban Gardens in Sussex

Small gardens benefit from plants that deliver maximum impact with minimal fuss. Mix evergreens with seasonal pops of colour for year-round interest.

Try these local favourites:

• Salvia – easy dynamic colour, fragrant, and pollinator-loving
• Achillea – comes in different colours
• Grasses like Stipa – great texture in pots
• Sedum – perfect for adding green between pavers (but needs full sun and no pets!)

Local tip: Brighton’s sea breezes can be drying, so consider drought-tolerant species or install a simple drip irrigation system. Plants sourced by: Palmstead

6. Reflect Brighton’s Personality in Your Garden

Your garden should feel like you — and like Brighton. Think bold tiles, pops of colour, and a relaxed, bohemian touch. Local artists and reclaimed materials from Sussex markets can add charm and sustainability.

A courtyard garden can become a living extension of your home — ideal for entertaining, relaxing, or even working outdoors.

Bringing It All Together

Small gardens in Brighton may come with limits, but they also offer enormous creative freedom. With thoughtful design, layering, and attention to light and texture, you can transform even the most compact space into something stunning.

If you’re looking for help turning your Brighton courtyard or terrace into a stylish retreat, I’d love to help.

🌿 Get in touch today for a free consultation.
Let’s design a small urban garden that’s big on beauty and perfectly Brighton.