For many the word "garden" conjures up images of lawns and herbaceous borders soil and secateurs mulches and manure and the niceties of horticultural technique. But in order to make the most of a small space it is necessary to break free from preconceptions about the nature of a garden: where it should be and the things it should or should not contain. Using outside space - be it a window-ledge roof balcony or basement yard - is an enjoyable and stylish way of extending the boundaries of your home. The key to realizing the potential of your small space in both visual and practical terms is design - this involves planning and styling your space so that it suits your way of life and the character of your home and its surroundings.