- Using focal points- including the more unusual- is an effective way of drawing the eye away from the edges of a space
Sometimes, especially with awkwardly shaped or smaller gardens, it makes sense to try and draw the eye from the outer boundaries and create a more pleasing and, apparently larger space. Here are seven ‘top tips’ for achieving this:
1. Put square and rectangular patios and lawns at 45/30/60 degrees to the side boundaries or use shapes for these and other flat areas which contrast with the outer shape of the garden.
2. Set paths to run at an angle to the garden boundaries in zig zags or dog leg style.
3. Make paths curved, meandering from side to side.
- Paths- including grass- and the border edges they create can be meandering to take the eye on a journey..
Hedges can be used to divide up a space and perhaps be a point of interest themselves.. 
Likewise, trellises, arches and other structures ..
Hedges can be used to divide up a space and perhaps be a point of interest themselves..
Likewise, trellises, arches and other structures ..
4. Fix structures such as trellis, pergolas and arches or plant hedges across the garden to interrupt the view and to create separate compartments.
5. Place groups of tall shrubs or trees at intervals in the line of sight to block views across or down the garden.
6. Use climbers and large shrubs, especially evergreens, to disguise solid formal boundary fences and to break up the straight lines, particularly the horizontal ones of fence/ wall tops.
7. Carefully place focal points to draw the eye in various chosen directions, positioning them so that they can be seen from different places in the garden.
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Use climbing plants to cover up and soften hard boundaries
Old School Garden 