What’s remarkable about this Montreal backyard isn’t its fiery use of colour, its enviably verdant privacy or even its finely honed practicality; it’s the incredible use of space. There are three – yes, three – roomy zones, all laid out in less than 1,000 square feet. And in case this isn’t achieving the kind of awe it should, the area was cleverly designed to include all of the amenities for enjoying the best outdoor activities that summer has to offer: cooking, dining, lounging and swimming.

“I questioned how we would fit everything that the homeowners – a young and growing family – wanted into this small outdoor space without it feeling cramped,” says landscape architect Stuart Webster of Stuart Webster Design. The result, which is exactly the opposite of crowded, resides in the clever use of geometric design. Stuart and his colleague Nicole Larin ran the pool down the side of the yard, seeking out the greatest length possible.


Garden design
Landscape architect Stuart Webster added to the walls of cedar trees that were already in place around the perimeter of the yard. At the back, he planted willows for softness and unique long-stemmed purple ninebark shrubs to create contrast.
Limestone pavers
Limestone pavers steer visitors down the side of the house. A wall of Virginia creeper is accented with pots for annuals. The red oversized planter makes a striking backdrop for a lone birch.
Colourful garden
Stuart loves how refreshing primary colours look in a garden. “So many people opt for neutrals. Here, green, red and blue work so powerfully together,” he says.
Lounge area
A retractable umbrella is a versatile and airy shade solution in the lounge area. Stuart had the cedar decking painted a silver-grey so that the red would really pop.
Bench seating
Extra seating was built at the edge of the pool. Its geometric design echoes the lines of the rest of the space. Outdoor lights under the seats give off a fun evening glow.
Garden dining
A stainless steel dining table and chairs suit the contemporary garden.
Outdoor essentials
Want to incorporate a graphic and modern aesthetic into your own outdoor space? Here are the key ingredients for creating your own contemporary retreat.

1 Dining table
This sleek, shore extension dining table will accomodate all your guests and make for a great outdoor furniture piece. Hauser Company Stores, $1,799.

2 Stylish shade
Take cover from the sun underneith this taupe patio umbrella. InsideOut Home and Patio, $110.

3 Chic appliances
A good barbecue like this Weber Spirit SP-320 is a must for any outdoor space. Weber, $750.

4 Colourful textiles
Brighten up your patio with colourful cushions. IKEA, $35.

5 Neutral base
Use a neutral paint colour like Wheat Sheaf, CC-220 to create a calming atmosphere. Benjamin Moore, prices vary.

6 Modern silhouettes
This stainless steel lounger adds a modern aesthetic to any backyard. Hauser Company Store, $1,199.

7 Unique lighting
Solar powered globe lights are great for dimly lit areas and there's no need to worry about tangled cords. IKEA, $9.

8 Hints of black
Planters are the perfect outdoor decor accessory for displaying all your summer plants in style. The Home Depot, $25.