Outdoor spaces in the city always feel particularly precious — like a little green jewel in the midst of all the gray. Most of us will probably never be lucky enough to live in a townhouse with a tiny, lush backyard, but fortunately, looking at other people's backyards is completely free. Here are 12 gorgeous backyard green spaces in the city.
Above: When I look at this backyard design by Sawyer Berson, I can almost hear the sound of the fountain. What better place to relax after a stressful day?
Tall trees add a dreamy element to this Manhattan backyard from Dwell. The high walls make this backyard into a world its own, and the little fountain ensures that city sounds are far away.
The separate, square planter areas add a bit of a formal element to this city backyard from Foras Studio, but also provide a place to wander. Within the designated squares, tall grasses and flowering bushes add a touch of wildness.
This backyard from Gardenista has a bit of a wilder aspect, but is no less inviting. The vegetable garden makes this space both pretty and practical.
Lush greenery creates a lovely contrast to a modern townhome addition by Resolution: 4 Architecture. A fieldstone wall adds a rustic touch.
This side yard from Planete Deco looks like an inviting spot to while away an afternoon. Multiple levels mean plenty of spots for planters, and visually expand the small space.
With the right design, even an especially narrow backyard can be inviting, as evidenced by this project from Garden Club London, via Houzz. There are a few different kinds of planting areas, and a table with benches from which to enjoy it all.
In this backyard spotted on Desire to Inspire, there's space for entertaining, but also room to wander. As you move toward the back of the yard, the landscape becomes progressively wilder, enhancing the sense of discovery.
Seen from above, this city backyard from Foras Studio is an inviting green oasis. Even though it's rather small, there's still room for plantings, a petite patio, and even a touch of lawn.
Staring up at the trees in this Brooklyn backyard from Gardenista, you could almost forget you're in the city entirely. The patio area creates an outdoor room within view of the greener elements of the yard.
This leafy Brooklyn backyard from Gardenista is both modern and calming. Underneath the shade of the trees, it feels like a world unto itself, removed from the chaos of the city.
This backyard from We Design isn't quite as fancy as some of the others—but the lush lawn and overarching trees make it no less inviting. That kid sprawled out on the grass has got the right idea.
