Description
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
A small garden can still have a big impact! Whether you have a tiny backyard, courtyard, balcony, narrow side yard or compact outdoor area, this practical 4-hour workshop will show you how to make the most of your space.
Landscape designer Nicki King will guide you through simple design principles to help you create a garden that feels functional, beautiful and spacious - no matter the size. Learn how to maximise layout, choose the right plants, create privacy, add vertical interest and avoid common small-space design mistakes.
This course is ideal for homeowners, renters, apartment dwellers and anyone working with limited outdoor space who want practical ideas to apply at home.
You'll leave with inspiration, practical tips and the confidence to create a small garden that feels bigger, greener and better suited to your lifestyle.
WHO'S IT FOR?
This workshop is ideal for homeowners, renters, apartment dwellers, beginner gardeners and anyone working with a small outdoor space such as a courtyard, balcony, narrow backyard or compact garden. It's perfect for people who want practical ideas to make their space feel more functional, beautiful and inviting.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
No prior gardening or design experience is required. This course is beginner-friendly and focuses on practical, easy to understand ideas you can apply to your own space. If you'd like to make the most of the workshop, you're welcome to bring:
- Photos of your outdoor space
- Basic measurements (if you have them)
- A rough sketch of your space (optional)
- Inspiration images or ideas you have
These are optional but can help you start applying what you learn to your own garden.
OUTCOMES OF COURSE
By the end of this workshop you will be able to:
. Identify opportunities and challenges within small outdoor spaces
. Apply simple garden design principles to make small spaces feel larger and more functional
. Plan layouts for courtyards, balconies and compact gardens
. Select suitable plants for small spaces and specific growing conditions
. Use vertical space, screening and clever design features effectively
. Avoid common small-space garden design mistakes
. Develop ideas for improving your own outdoor space with confidence
PAYMENT OPTIONS
For organisations that wish to pay the student fees for this course and are unable to pay by credit card online, please contact the Short Course team via email shortcourses@tafesa.edu.au to organise a Third Party invoice.
Class Times
Wednesday evening 5.30pm-9.30pm
Registrations for this course close on 2 November 2026 unless filled prior
For more details on short course enrolments, discounts, refunds, international student eligibility and more, please visit
Applying for Short Courses