One of the most beloved features of a townhouse is its backyard garden. Offering more design possibilities than a terrace, and more space than a balcony, a townhouse garden can be the perfect urban retreat. Whether small or large, wide or narrow, the possibilities are endless - outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, water features, or a serene garden. Thoughtfully designed it becomes not only your personal sanctuary but also a standout feature for prospective buyers, adding value to your home. Nothing compares to touring a beautiful home and stepping into a glorious garden oasis.
Things to Consider:
- How much effort do you want to put into maintenance? A clean look with pavers and drought-tolerant plantings are often easier to maintain than a garden with flower beds, climbing vines and exotic plantings.
- What type of lifestyle elements to you envision incorporating into your yard? Space for relaxation, dining, and play?
- How much privacy do you envision? Elements such as shade trees, perimeter plantings (think grasses or bamboo), or a slatted shade pergola are great for privacy.
- Think about garden access from the parlor level. Many homes have a parlor level balcony with stairs leading to the garden.
How to Get Started:
- Assess your needs such as how you'll use the space and existing features like fences and trees.
- Set a budget from a few thousand dollars for DIY upgrades or a more expensive full redesign with contractors. Be sure to factor in labor and permits.
- Check NYC regulations for things like tree removal, major structural changes or restrictions in landmark-designated areas.
- Hire the right professionals. For a full-scale design layout you'll likely need a landscape architect or designer. For hardscaping, draining, and structural work a contractor. For plant selection a gardener or horticulturist.
- Plan your design by thinking of hardscaping like patios, decks, and pathways, softscaping like plantings, containers, or vertical gardens, in addition to privacy and fencing, lighting and decor.
- Consider drainage and irrigation as well as sourcing of materials and plantings.
Can't get it done all at once? Execute your vision in phases starting with major structural work and ending with plant installation and decor!
