To visually expand the compact backyard, we opted for a modern, minimal look with wooden accents to add warmth to the garden. Hence, we worked with a few repeated materials that helped to tie the space together and complemented the clean lines of the villa.

A uniform pattern of monochromatic porcelain tiles were used to replace the outdoor paving. The long, linear tiles are laid parallel to the house, giving the backyard the illusion of greater length and depth.

We opted for light colored paving to match the indoor tile color, giving the appearance of continuity from inside to outside. The lighter colors also make the outdoor space feel bright and airy.

We created different zones within the garden to allow the clients to use the space for a variety of functions. A new built-in seating with a monolithic fireplace creates a cozy outdoor seating nook, visible from the living room. A light colored marble was chosen for the fireplace to match the light colored porcelain pavers.

A dark wooden wall with lanterns forms a charming backdrop to the seating area. The dark wood color contrasts with the light paving and fireplace. Colorful cushions were used to pick up on the interior accents and add a pop of color to the monochromatic beige colors.

Beige colored stacked stone was used to clad the seat wall; this cladding continues to form low planters and terminates into a backdrop for a white statue at the end of the side yard. A beautiful statue of the elephant God ‘Ganesha’, tucked into a niche near the seating, forms an interesting focal point. The niche is outlined with hidden LED strip lights that draw attention to this feature.

The narrow side yard was simply designed with large masses of plantings that frame a textured beige walkway. The stacked stone turns the corner to form a low planter that links to the design features in the backyard.

At the other end of the backyard, a dark wooden pergola offers a shaded space for a bar and built-in barbeque counter. The bar counter is made of the same light colored marble as the fire table.

Dark wicker chairs pick up on the color of the wooden accents that are subtly used to offset the predominantly light color palette of the garden. A small free-standing table with a couple of chairs provides an informal seating area that is ideal for a casual cup of tea.

The lighting truly transformed this backyard into a wonderful, warm space at night. A series of string lights, suspended from wooden overhangs attached to the house, span  across the expanse of the backyard to the top of the property line walls. These provide a festive ambience year round, creating a vibrant, lively outdoor space that is perfect for entertaining with guests and family.

Warm colored LED strip lights mounted under the overhang of the seat wall and planters, make the landscape structures appear to be floating and emphasize their linear lines.

Green plants are used to frame the lantern wall and statues, softening the lines of the hardscape with their soft, organic forms. A few potted plants, placed around the garden, give occupants the feeling of being outdoors amongst nature.