How to Start a Small Urban Garden

April 22, 2025

Even in the heart of the city, nature always prevails. An urban garden is a green space in a compact environment, designed to bring nature into everyday city living. If you have a small balcony, compact studio, or sunlit windowsill, you can still create a green sanctuary with just a few thoughtful touches. The key is to make the most of what you have.

In this blog, we’ll show you how a combination of greenery, teak for outdoor furniture, and careful planning can help you cultivate a personal escape that flourishes season after season.

1. Observe your space

Before you start choosing plants or furniture, observe how your space behaves. Is it drenched in sunlight all afternoon or shaded by nearby buildings? Is it exposed to wind or more sheltered?

By understanding how much sunlight, airflow, and room you have, you can make informed choice on the right planters to the perfect position of your teak table and chairs. Compact zones greatly benefit from well thought-out layouts – be sure to keep movement easy to promote openness and avoid overcrowding.

2. Choose the right planters and soil

Containers are your best friend when it comes to smaller areas. Avoid plastic where possible and instead use clay or stone pots to blend with natural wood tones. Additionally, lightweight raised planters or vertical solutions save precious square footage while allowing deep root systems to flourish. Pair planters with high-quality and well-draining soil to give your plants the best possible start.

3. Choose plants that work hard (and look good)

Plants should offer more than just good looks in urban areas. Choose herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary to add greenery and fragrance, or compact fruiting plants like tomatoes and strawberries. Drought-tolerant succulents and shade-loving ferns thrive in smaller corners, while ornamental grasses can help to add movement. Group together your different plants by sun and water needs to keep growth consistent and maintenance low.

4. Go vertical for maximum impact

Vertical gardening is a clever way to bring life to walls and railings. Hang planters from balconies, mount wooden slats with pot hooks, or go for ladder shelves. These techniques allow you to beautifully frame a teak garden furniture set, helping to soften hard lines and connect your furnishings with the surrounding greenery.

5. Invest in furniture that compliments instead of crowds

Choosing the right outdoor furniture is essential to make your garden both stylish and functional. Naturally, teak offers the perfect choice – ageing beautifully, requiring little upkeep, and withstanding the elements with ease.

For small spaces, choose:

6. Create a Sense of Stillness

Gardens are much more than a visual experience – they're sensory too. To bring rhythm and relaxation to your outdoor space, incorporate features like wind chimes, soft lighting, or a small water fountain or bird bath. When you balance greenery with functional beauty, each element can contribute to the atmosphere you want to create.

Grow Beautifully in Any Space with Luxus

Urban gardening is about creativity, not compromise. With carefully selected plants and timeless pieces like our award-winning teak furniture, you can turn your small garden into a tranquil sanctuary of style and sustainability.

Here at Luxus Home & Garden, we have teak outdoor furniture for gardens of every size. Explore our collection or get in touch with our team for personalised advice and start building a space that grows with you.