Big Ideas for a Small Yard

To play off the low-key style of the shingled house, I used utilitarian materials like gravel and concrete, and a limited but exuberant color palette to liven up the somber materials without overwhelming the small space.

Here, a burgundy-red Japanese maple, 'Orange Dream,' underplanted with golden Heuchera 'Caramel' provides a bit of privacy on the deck. Another Japanese maple, 'Baldsmith,' welcomes visitors stepping down into the garden.