Hoping for some creative inspiration on how to best utilize this awkward and small space in front of a garden shed and a fence. There is already a concrete slab laid in front of the garden shed, making it easier to work with. Ideas need to be practical for a “do it yourself” weekend project, while being budget and pet friendly. Something low maintenance is a must to fit in with a busy household. This area receives full sun until around mid to late afternoon.
Hello @lisa.crathorne
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about utilizing the space near your shed.
A simple and practical way to transform this awkward space is to first clear out the debris and weeds, then top up the garden bed with a quality soil improver such as Scotts Osmocote Premium Potting Mix from Bunnings before adding a thick layer of pine bark or eucalyptus mulch to help suppress weeds and retain moisture. Because the area receives strong sun for most of the day, drought-tolerant and low-maintenance plants will work best while still softening the hard edges of the shed and fence.
A combination of Westringia Coastal Rosemary, Dianella ‘Little Jess’, Yucca ‘Bright Edge’, and Hardenbergia ‘Happy Wanderer’ would suit the space perfectly, as all are hardy, pet-friendlier options commonly stocked at Bunnings and cope well with heat and dry conditions once established. The Westringia provides a neat compact shrub with minimal upkeep, Dianella adds soft strappy foliage and seasonal colour, Yucca creates a sculptural focal point without taking up much room, and Hardenbergia can trail or lightly climb along the fence for added greenery and flowers.
Finishing the narrow strip behind the shed with decorative gravel will improve drainage, reduce maintenance, and keep the area looking clean and tidy year-round while still being achievable as an affordable DIY weekend project. I also suggest having a look at this guide - How to give your garden a makeover by @Adam_W
If you've got time and some space in your budget, I suggest cleaning the fence and oiling it with a walnut stain.
I've placed a sample image using AI to give you an idea of what it can look like.
Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves and goggles when working on your project.
Let me call on our experienced members @mich1972, @kel, @Maursie and @Aussie-Garden for their recommendations.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Hi @lisa.crathorne,
I also wondered whether that slab might be a great opportunity for a small deck or seating area. It wouldn't need to be large or complicated to build, but it could create a nice little destination in the garden and make better use of what is currently an awkward space.
A couple of chairs and a small table could turn it into a pleasant spot for a morning coffee or somewhere to sit and enjoy the garden. As you can see in the AI rendering I created, even a simple deck and seating arrangement can make the area feel much more inviting and purposeful.
Mitchell
