Maybe every family member has a different yard use in mind. Maybe your own wish list is long. Or maybe you just want a backyard that feels cozy for a few while welcoming to many. Resourceful designers can accommodate multiple uses in a single flexible design without creating a crammed-in feel, as these three beautiful outdoor areas show.
And while larger yards naturally make the task easier, each of the designs below offers takeaways for smaller yards too — such as subtly defining zones, adding greenery to walls and roofs, and nestling in a small studio. See if any of them inspire you to get more use out of your own outdoor space.