RELAX IN YOUR INNER-CITY RETREAT

Space can be lacking in small urban plots but you can create the illusion less is more!

- CHARLIE ALBONE

1 DO A LIGHT FAN DAN GO

A cute trick is to let art imitate life – in this case, light fittings reflecting the pendulous flowers of a nearby angel’s trumpet tree (Brugmansia sp). Another is to mix foliage shapes and sizes to create texture and depth and vary colours from dark green to blue green to lime, red or silver as a substitute for flowers, which can be fleeting or insignificant in a shady spot.

Inner-city living is about being part of its exciting bustle, its bright lights and non-stop noise. But that can also make it hard to ease away, appreciate a gentle light or hear the thrill and trill of birdsong over the cacophony. It also often means your garden or courtyard is tiny, making it challenging to find respite. But there is a way. Here’s how to create an easy-care sanctuary in the midst of the concrete jungle where you’ll want to spend all your time – and listen to the birds – when not engaged in the day-to-day of working life.

2 LET IN THE LIGHT

A frangipani, a ginger plant, red-tinged bromeliads and strappy-leafed plants offer different textures and form, but all allow light to flow through, creating the depth that can be lacking in small gardens.

3 AIM HIGH – IT’S NOT HARD!

Wisteria loves sun, but copes with shade, so encourage it to become a gutter guzzler for a gorgeous spring and verdant summer. Just don’t forget the gutters for autumn pruning!

4 HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

A murraya hedge keeps the world outside! And how intriguing it is for passers-by, who are left to wonder what goes on behind its lush cover.

5 SEE-THROUGH, PEEK-A-BOO