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Long Rectangular Garden Design Layout: A Complete Guide For You

Updated: 2 days ago

Having an issue with how you design a layout of your long rectangular garden? Well, you are not alone; many people find it really tricky whenever it comes to making something from a narrow strip of the garden space. It actually turns out that creating both a practical and attractive garden in such small-sized spaces has been rather puzzlingly complex for many of its owners.

But don't worry, this article is here to help you out. We will take you through some basic designing principles of a long garden and give you ideas that can help make your space beautiful yet functional. Whether you are aiming for a relaxing retreat or an entertaining garden, we got you covered.

So, let's get started.

A long rectangular back garden with white porcelain patio pathways, turf area and a cream colour flowerbed along the painted wooden fence.

Understanding Long Rectangular Gardens

A long rectangular garden is one whose length is more than its width, with an aspect of looking like a narrow corridor. Many homes have this form of garden, particularly in city areas or places where there is minimal outdoor space. While the shape may present a challenge, it also presents a good opportunity to be creative.

The main problem with long rectangular gardens is that they may feel narrow or cramped. However, with the right design, you can make the space feel larger and more inviting. You will be able to turn this into a beautiful and functional area by using some really clever ideas, adding depth and texture, and breaking up the garden into sections.

Understanding the shape and size of your garden is the first step in making it work. Even a narrow garden can become an attractive outdoor space with just a little planning.

Let's look at the basic principles that will guide the design of your long, rectangular garden.



Basic Principles of Long Rectangular Garden Design Layout

A few simple guiding principles in designing long rectangular gardens make quite a difference in feel and look. These basic ideas will help you turn your narrow garden into a beautiful and functional area.

  1. Create Zones

One of the best ways to balance a long garden is to divide it into different zones or sections, perhaps through planting beds, paths, or even small features such as a seating area or a water fountain.

This helps to break up the space into smaller areas and can create a sense of depth, rather than the garden seeming like one long tunnel.

  1. Use Perspective

Perspective is one of the most powerful tools in garden design. If you want your garden to appear longer or more open, use plants, pathways, or features that draw your eye toward the end of the garden.

It gives a feeling of depth, and it can therefore allow space to feel bigger. Using taller plants toward the back and smaller ones to the front gives an illusion of distance.

  1. Add Curves and Flow

While straight lines may occur on plenty of rectangular gardens, the use of smooth curves or any kind of curve in walkways, borders, and bed gardens actually softens lines, introducing a feel of flow into the area; in doing so, making less stiffness of the garden because it usually reduces linearity and adds much more charm to it.

  1. Focus on Layers

In a narrow garden, layers made of different heights and textures tend to add dynamism. Plant tall, medium-height, and low-growing plants side by side.

This could also make the garden area appear bigger with this layering effect. You can also add in raised beds or vertical gardens to make the most out of the space.

  1. Think About Flow and Function

A long garden should be as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing. Consider how you will utilise the space: for relaxation, entertaining, or gardening. There needs to be a natural flow in the design that makes transitioning from one part of the yard to another easy.

Paths, seating areas, and plants should be sited in a manner that will encourage movement and use of the entire space.

Using these basic principles will take a long, rectangular garden and turn it into an aesthetically pleasing, adequate outdoor space that feels much more open and inviting.


A rectangular long back garden with a seating area and natural settings in the form of wooden fences and natural turf and plants.

Long Rectangular Garden Design Ideas

Now that you have learned the basic design principles, here are some simple ideas that will help you get the most out of your long, rectangular garden. These shall help you turn your narrow space into a beautiful and functional outdoor area.

  1. Add a Focal Point at the End

In order to give an even better and more inviting look to the garden, one way could be adding a focal point on the farther end. This would be either a statue, fountain, or seating area-one would gaze at it since that helps to complete this area.

  1. Use Symmetry for Balance

Besides making it visually appealing, the sense of symmetry can also make your garden feel neat and well-organised. The same plants are planted in a mirror-image fashion on the other side, or some people like using a direct path down the middle.

This works quite well, especially if you're looking for a formal garden design.

  1. Create a Pathway

A path through your garden gives more visual interest and separates your garden space. You can take a few simple materials such as stones, gravel, or bricks and make a simple path. If desired, curve the path slightly to help soften the feel of the garden and make it less box-like.

  1. Add Vertical Features

Vertical elements include things that can add height but do not take up much space on the ground, like trellises, climbing plants, or hanging planters. They add more life and colour to the garden without using too much space on the ground.


  1. Divide the Garden into Sections

Smaller areas within a garden often make the whole thing feel larger and more organised. Create sections to sit and relax, places to plant flowers or a vegetable area. Plants, fences, or even gravel around the inside make nice dividers between each separate area.

A rectangular back garden with seats, decking area and lots of plants, shrubs and trees.
  1. Create a Seating Area

Adding a place to sit and relax can make your garden more enjoyable. Choose a spot where you can enjoy the view of your garden. You may add a bench, a small table, or even a hammock. Plant plants or bushes around it, making it cosy and private.

  1. Layer Your Plants

Plant in layers to add a lot of texture that contributes to the fullness of the garden. Place tall in the back and shorter at the front. Mixing different heights and colours of plants keeps the garden interesting and lively.

  1. Go for a Natural Look

For a somewhat laid-back garden, plant wildflowers or nearly native-style plants. Allow them to grow in their way to provide a soft, wild feel. This offers a low-maintenance alternative that welcomes birds and butterflies, making this space peaceful and natural.

These can be ideas for making a long, rectangular garden beautiful and functional. Be it neat and structured, or a little wild and carefree, here's something to suit each taste.

Final Words

Designing a long rectangular garden can be rather tricky. Actually, it can be quite an asset with a few great ideas. A basic understanding of the very basics and the use of simple design tips will make the garden appear larger, be more organised, and inviting, too.

You can also create a focal point in the garden or divide into sections, use plants in layers to achieve what you will want to be the end result in your garden. With these ideas, you can begin to design a garden that reflects your style and needs.


FAQs About Long Rectangular Garden Design

  1. How can I make my long garden feel bigger?


Try adding a mirror or reflective surface to a wall or fence—it creates the illusion of more space. Keep the design simple, and don’t overcrowd the garden with too many plants or decorations.


  1. What colours should I use in a narrow garden?


Light, soft colours work best for walls, fences, or paths because they make the space feel open. You can add bright flowers or colourful furniture for a cheerful touch without making it overwhelming.


  1. What if the ground in my garden is uneven?


No problem! You can build raised beds or create terraces to level things out. These also add nice layers to the garden and make it look more interesting.


  1. What kind of lighting works best?


String lights, solar lights, or small spotlights are great for narrow gardens. Place them along paths or around key features to add warmth and make the space look cosy at night.


  1. Can I have a water feature in a long garden?


Yes, a small fountain, narrow pond, or even a wall-mounted water feature can look amazing. Just pick something that fits the space so it doesn’t feel cramped.

If you feel like you'd like our team to take the stress out of designing and building your garden for you, click below and book a free design consultation. Make your dreams a reality.


Don't forget to download our '9 Common Mistakes To Avoid For Homeowners' guide!

 


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