What was once a bare, exposed deck with no real sense of place, has been thoughtfully transformed into a lush, layered garden retreat. This small townhouse garden design in Murrays Bay Auckland already had a strong connection to the home, but lacked softness, privacy, and a feeling of being somewhere my clients wanted to spend their time.

Creating Privacy, Functionality and Softness in a Small Townhouse Garden

Having worked with the client previously, there was already a level of trust and a clear understanding of the style she was drawn to… lush, layered planting with a slightly tropical feel. For this new townhouse garden design, the brief was to bring that same sense of softness and atmosphere into a much more compact courtyard space.

Privacy was important, but without closing the garden in or making it feel smaller. The outdoor space needed to feel open and breathable, while still offering a sense of retreat from neighbouring properties. At the same time, it had to remain highly functional, comfortably accommodating a small outdoor dining setting, along with additional seating for everyday use.

Garden Design Solution

The key move in this garden design was to think beyond the conventional layout. By introducing a 45-degree geometry, the space immediately became more dynamic and functional. The angled lines created natural pockets for planting, allowing greenery to be layered into the courtyard without compromising usable deck space.

This approach helped strike a careful balance between structure and softness, retaining generous room for outdoor dining and seating, while ensuring the garden felt immersive rather than sparse. It also allowed the small deck area and garden to feel larger and more considered in its layout.

Materiality and colour were approached with equal care. Vertical timber slat screens were introduced to provide privacy while maintaining a sense of openness, and finished in a deep forest green chosen by the client to complement the interior palette. By keeping the materials and colour palette restrained, the outdoor living space feels cohesive with the home rather than competing with it.

Collaboration played an important role throughout the design process. The client had a clear vision for how she wanted the space to feel, and together we shaped a garden that reflects that, while still allowing room for a considered, design-led response.

The finished garden feels a world away from the original space. What was once an exposed, under utilised deck is now a lush, private deck garden, layered with planting, softened by texture, and designed for everyday outdoor living.

Careful implementation played a key role in bringing the garden design to life. Working alongside a trusted contractor, the detailing, material choices, and planting were executed with precision, ensuring the finished space feels resolved and cohesive. Subtle garden lighting was also introduced, adding depth and atmosphere in the evening and extending how the outdoor space can be used. Despite being in a high-density housing area, the garden now feels private.

What the client says…

“Our new-build townhouse had a small, fully decked back yard with no greenery in sight. It desperately needed some creativity. After chatting to Sandra I knew we were in the right hands. The design she created was unique – stunning in fact – and far exceeded our expectations. Sandra was a dream to work with. She communicated clearly and made sure the journey from inception to creation worked seamlessly. The end result is a beautiful, lush garden/deck. The clever design draws the outside in and brings us joy both day and night. If you’re looking for a talented landscape designer, you’ve found her. Sandra will utilise her extensive skills to create something extra special for you.“

Now, the garden is not just something to look at, but somewhere to spend time—whether that’s a quiet morning coffee, relaxed evenings outdoors, or entertaining friends in a space that feels both intimate and open.

Looking to transform your own outdoor space? If you’re planning a small garden or townhouse courtyard and want a space that feels both functional and considered, get in touch to discuss your project into your outdoor living space you can book a consultation here.
Photo credits: Sandra Batley.