Looking for a way to make your small garden look bigger? 

When it comes to making your garden feel larger and more inviting, the colour of your fence plays a surprisingly crucial role. Whilst many of us focus on plant selection, furniture placement, and landscaping design, the colour of your garden’s boundary can either open up the space or make it feel more confined. 

So, whether you’re diving into your summer garden maintenance tasks or wanting to add a pop of colour to the thing that gives your garden privacy, keep reading as we explore the relationship between fence colours and garden perception, guiding you on how to choose the perfect shade to make your garden look bigger. 

From understanding the psychology of colour in outdoor spaces to discovering the best hues and tones for your fence, we’ll cover everything you need to improve your garden and create an outdoor haven with the illusion of space.

Understanding the psychology of colour in gardens

Colour in gardens can have a much larger impact than just aesthetic value. Different colours can have a profound effect on the way we feel and can influence our perception of space. 

1. Warm colours 

Warm colours, such as reds, oranges, and yellows, tend to advance, meaning that they draw attention and make objects or areas seem closer than they actually are. They can make a garden feel more intimate and cosy.

2. Cool colours

Cool colours, like blues, greens, and purples, tend to recede, meaning that they create a sense of depth and distance. This can make a garden feel larger, more expansive and more open. 

3. Neutral colours

Neutral colours, such as whites, greys, and browns, can either advance or recede – depending on their tone and context. Lighter neutral colours can make a garden appear bigger, whilst darker neutral colours can make it seem smaller – though warm and cool tones within the colours can also impact this.  

4. Monochromatic schemes

A single-colour scheme can unify a garden, making it feel cohesive. Depending on the colour used, it can either enlarge or reduce the perception of space.

5. Colour contrasts

High contrast between colours can create a lively, dynamic atmosphere, whilst low contrast can create a more subdued, harmonious feel.

6. Light and shade

The way light interacts with colour in a garden also affects how space is perceived. Bright, sunny areas can enhance warm colours, making them even more vibrant, whilst shaded areas may mute colours, making cool tones appear more pronounced.

7. Seasonal colour changes

Changing colour throughout the seasons can alter the perception of space in a garden. Bringing in spring’s bright pastels can make a garden feel fresh and open, whilst autumn’s warm, rich tones can make it feel cosy and enclosed.

30 best fence colours to make your garden look bigger 

Thanks to colour psychology, we know that bright, light, and cool colours will help to achieve the illusion of more space. So, to make your garden look bigger, you should choose fence colours that help create this illusion. 

Here are some of the best colours to achieve this effect:

Light Neutrals 

Light neutrals are the most common fence paint colours to choose from – especially when you want to make your garden look bigger. These could include:

1. Off-white

A soft, slightly warmer alternative to pure white, often with subtle undertones of beige, grey, or yellow.

2. Light grey

A versatile neutral that works well in both modern and traditional settings. It provides a cool, calming backdrop – without being too stark.

3. Pale beige

A warm, sandy colour that adds a touch of softness and warmth – without overwhelming the space.

4. Cream

A warm, yellowish-white that feels inviting and cosy. It’s a great choice if you want a neutral that isn’t too cold.

5. Ivory

A soft, off-white with a hint of warmth. It’s slightly richer than cream and pairs well with most garden colours.

6. Soft taupe

A light, greyish-brown colour that offers a subtle warmth. It’s a perfect blend of grey and beige, adding depth, whilst still feeling light.

7. Pearl grey

A very light, almost white, grey with cool undertones. It reflects light well and gives a contemporary feel to the space.

8. Alabaster

A pale, neutral colour that is close to off-white but with a slight warmth – making it feel softer and more inviting.

9. Pale sand

A very light, warm beige with a touch of grey. It mimics the colour of sand and is great for a natural, earthy look.

10. Frosted mint

A super light minty colour that borders on white, providing a subtle hint of colour, whilst remaining neutral.

Cool colours 

We know the effect that cool colours can have on a space, so why not paint your garden fences one of these colours? Great cool colours to paint your fence in include:

11. Soft blue

A light, calming blue that evokes the colour of the sky or water. It recedes into the background, making spaces feel larger.

12. Pale aqua

A very light blue-green colour that adds a refreshing, airy feel. It’s perfect for evoking a coastal or serene atmosphere.

13. Mint green

A cool, pastel green that feels fresh and vibrant. It blends well with garden foliage and helps create a spacious feeling.

14. Lavender

A soft, light purple with blue undertones. Lavender is soothing and gives a garden a subtle, expansive quality.

15. Sky blue

A light, airy blue that mirrors the colour of a clear sky. It can make fences seem to disappear into the horizon, enhancing the sense of space.

16. Cool grey

A light grey with blue or green undertones. This colour feels modern and sophisticated, whilst also helping to open up the space.

17. Icy blue

A very pale blue with a hint of grey, giving a crisp and clean look. It’s great for creating a tranquil and expansive feel.

18. Seafoam green

A light, muted green with blue undertones. It’s reminiscent of the sea and works well in creating a peaceful, open atmosphere.

19. Periwinkle

A light, blue-violet colour that adds a touch of softness, whilst maintaining the coolness of blue. It’s great for a garden that feels serene and spacious.

20. Dusty blue

A muted, pale blue with grey undertones. It offers a subtle, sophisticated coolness that helps expand the perception of space.

Soft pastel colours 

Want to add a pop of colour to your garden, without making it look smaller in the process? Almost any of your favourite colours in their pastel variant will do the job, including:

21. Pastel pink

A soft, delicate pink that adds a gentle warmth. It’s a sweet, romantic colour that brings a light, airy quality to the garden.

22. Pastel blue

A light, baby blue that is calming and serene. It works well in creating a tranquil and expansive atmosphere.

23. Pastel green

A soft, minty green that feels fresh and soothing. It blends well with garden foliage and helps create a peaceful environment.

24. Pastel lavender

A pale purple with cool undertones, lavender adds a subtle touch of colour, whilst maintaining a light and open feel.

25. Pastel yellow

A light, buttery yellow that adds a hint of sunshine. It’s cheerful without being overwhelming – perfect for brightening up spaces.

26. Pastel peach

A soft, warm peach colour that adds a gentle, inviting warmth. It’s a lovely choice for creating a cosy yet open feel in the garden.

27. Pastel coral

A muted, light coral that combines hints of pink and orange. It adds a soft warmth and a subtle vibrancy to the garden.

28. Pastel mint

A very light, fresh green with a hint of blue. It’s refreshing and cool – ideal for creating a crisp, open feel.

29. Pastel lilac

A soft, light purple with pink undertones. It’s a gentle, romantic colour that adds a delicate touch to the garden.

30. Pastel aqua

A pale, watery blue-green that evokes a sense of calm and freshness. It’s great for a soothing, expansive garden atmosphere.

What fence colours will make your garden look smaller?

When choosing fence colours for your garden, there are certain colours you might want to avoid to ensure that the space feels inviting, harmonious, and larger. 

Here are some colours to be cautious with:

1. Bright and neon colours

Bright and neon colours, like electric blue, neon green, or hot pink, can be overly intense and jarring in a garden setting. They tend to dominate the space, making the garden feel smaller and more chaotic.

2. Very dark colours 

Whilst dark colours, such as black, deep brown, or navy blue, can be stylish in some settings, they can make a small garden feel even more enclosed and shadowy. They absorb light, which can make the space feel smaller and less inviting.

3. Strong primary colours 

Strong primary colours, like vibrant reds, blues, or yellows, are very bold and can create a sense of visual clutter. In a garden, where the aim is often to create a calm, natural environment, these colours can feel out of place and overpower the space.

4. Metallic colours

Metallic colours, such as silver, gold, or bronze, can be too reflective and shiny for a natural garden setting. They can look artificial and clash with the organic elements of the garden, along with creating glare and harsh reflections. 

5. Bright white

Whilst off-white and other softer shades of white can work well, a very bright, stark white can be too intense. It may contrast too sharply with the natural surroundings, making the fence stand out too much.

6. Highly saturated colours

Highly saturated colours, like intense purples, deep oranges, or vibrant greens, can be too bold for a fence. They can overwhelm and dominate the space and clash with the more subdued tones typically found in a garden.

Tips for maximising the effect of your paint colour 

To get the full effect of your paint colour and help it really make your garden look and feel bigger, consider these top tips: 

Tip 1: Matte finishes

Opt for matte or satin finishes, rather than glossy ones. Matte finishes reflect less light and can help the fence blend more subtly with the surroundings.

Tip 2: Complementary planting

Plant climbing plants or tall shrubs near the fence, in similar tones, to further blur the boundary and enhance the illusion of a larger space.

Tip 3: Vertical lines

If you’re getting a new fence for this project, get one that has vertical lines or patterns. This can draw the eye upwards, adding to the perception of height and space.

Painting vs. staining your fence 

You may have noticed that throughout this post, we have been recommending fence paint colours. This is because it can be very difficult to lighten a fence with paint stains – that is, unless you have extremely light and pale wood to begin with and are choosing a stain that is equally as light and pale. 

Benefits of painting a fence 

Adding colour is just one benefit of painting your fence. Other advantages include:

1. Protection against the elements

A good quality paint treats timber and acts as a protective barrier on your fence against rain, snow, sun, and wind. It helps to prevent moisture from penetrating the wood, which can cause rot, warping, and other forms of damage.

Furthermore, painting your fence with a UV-resistant paint can also help to protect it from sun damage, which can cause the wood to fade, crack, or become brittle over time.

2. Increased durability

By sealing the wood and protecting it from the elements, paint can significantly extend the lifespan of your fence, reducing the need for repairs or replacement. A well-painted fence is also less susceptible to wood rot and decay, especially if the paint is water-resistant and prevents moisture from seeping into the wood. 

Moreover, certain paints contain insect-repellent additives that can help protect the wood from termites, ants, and other pests that might otherwise cause further damage.

3. Improved curb appeal and increased property value

A freshly painted fence can enhance the overall appearance of your property – making it look well-maintained and attractive. This can also help to increase your home’s property value.

4. Concealment of imperfections

Paint can cover up stains, blemishes, or discoloration on the wood, giving your fence a fresh, clean look. This is particularly beneficial for older fences that have developed wear and tear over time. Painting can also help to fill in small cracks and imperfections in the wood, creating a smoother, more uniform appearance.

5. Maintenance simplification

Painted surfaces are generally easier to clean than raw wood. Dirt, mould, and mildew can be more easily wiped or washed off a painted fence, keeping it looking fresh for longer.

Also, a painted fence typically requires less frequent maintenance than an untreated one. The protective paint layer means less frequent staining, sealing, or repair work.

How to paint your garden fences 

Ready to paint your fence and make your garden look bigger? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Materials you’ll need

• Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
• Gloves, mask, and old clothing
• Scraper or wire brush
• Sandpaper or a sanding block
• Primer (optional)
• Paintbrushes, rollers, or a paint sprayer
• Stir sticks 
• Fence paint
• Ladder (if necessary)

Step 1: Preparation

Choose a day with mild, dry weather. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or on very humid or rainy days, as these conditions can affect how the paint adheres and dries.

Move plants, garden furniture, or any other objects away from the fence. Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect the ground and any nearby surfaces from paint splashes, and put on protective clothing, such as gloves, a mask, and old clothes.

Then, remove dirt, moss, and any loose or flaking paint using a wire brush or a scraper. For a more thorough clean, you can wash the fence with water and a mild detergent. Allow the fence to dry completely before painting.

Depending on the height of your fence, you may need to grab the ladders for this and the following steps. 

Step 2: Sanding

Sand the fence using sandpaper or a sanding block to create a smooth surface. Focus on any rough areas, splinters, or places where old paint is peeling. This step helps the new paint adhere better.

After sanding, wipe the fence with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. Let it dry thoroughly.

3. Priming (optional but recommended)

If you’re painting a bare wood fence, using a paint that doesn’t have priming properties, or changing from a dark to a light colour, applying a primer is a good idea. Primer helps the paint adhere better and provides a more even finish.

Paint the primer all over the fence using a brush or paint sprayer, starting from top to bottom and painting with the grain. Then, leave to dry, following the manufacturer’s instructions –  usually a few hours to overnight.

4. Painting

Depending on the size of the fence and the finish you want, you can use a paintbrush, roller, or paint sprayer. Brushes are best for precision and getting into corners, while rollers and sprayers are faster for large, flat areas.

Stir the paint using stir sticks before using. 

Begin painting at the top of the fence and work your way down, painting in the direction of the wood grain. Apply the paint in thin, even coats to avoid drips and ensure good coverage. It’s better to do multiple thin coats than one thick coat.

Allow the first coat to dry according to the paint manufacturer’s instructions before applying a second coat. Typically, two coats are sufficient for a durable, long-lasting finish.

5. Finishing touches

After the final coat has dried, inspect the fence for any missed spots or uneven areas and touch them up as needed. If you used painter’s tape to protect any areas, remove it carefully after the paint has dried to avoid peeling.

6. Allow the paint to cure

Whilst the fence may feel dry to the touch after a few hours, it typically takes several days for the paint to fully cure. Avoid heavy contact with the fence during this time.

How your fence colour can impact your garden design

Even if you’re using fence colour to make your garden look bigger, it is still going to have a profound effect on your overall garden design. Imagine painting your fence like painting a wall inside your home – it becomes the base for the space’s aesthetic and influences decor choices. 

Try to keep this in mind when choosing furniture, plants, and decorative elements for your garden. Matching colours or simpler tones will help to keep the illusion of space within your garden, whereas bright, contrasting colours can make it look chaotic and dominate the space. 

Other ways to make your garden look bigger

A garden fence colour alone isn’t going to help to achieve the look of a larger garden. Combining other design elements into your garden space can help to support this illusion, including: 

1. Use mirrors

Place mirrors on walls or fences to reflect light and greenery, creating the illusion of depth and extending the view.

2. Incorporate vertical elements

Use trellises, pergolas, or vertical planters to draw the eye upwards. Climbing plants and vertical gardens maximise the use of space, without taking up much ground area.

3. Create zones

Divide your garden into different areas using hedges, screens, or changes in paving. This makes the garden feel more expansive as each area has its own purpose and character. You could even utilise this time to build a garden room at the back of your space. 

4. Install diagonal paths

Lay paths or paving stones on the diagonal rather than straight. This trick draws the eye along a longer line, making the garden seem larger.

5. Use perspective

Plant larger, taller plants near the entrance and smaller ones farther away. This forced perspective makes the garden look longer and deeper.

6. Choose slimline furniture

Use space-saving, slimline furniture that doesn’t dominate the garden. Foldable or transparent furniture can also help maintain a spacious feel.

7. Select the right plants

Choose plants with small, fine leaves for the majority of the garden. Large-leaved plants can overwhelm a small space, whilst fine-textured plants create a sense of delicacy and expansiveness.

8. Incorporate curves

Use curved edges for flower beds, paths, and lawn borders. Curves guide the eye around the garden, creating a sense of movement and flow that can make the space feel larger.

9. Use raised beds

Raised beds add height and depth, breaking up the space and providing visual interest at different levels round your garden.

10. Add water features

Like garden mirrors, a small pond or fountain can reflect light around your garden. It can also  create a focal point, adding to the sense of space in your garden.

11. Create focal points

Draw attention to specific areas with sculptures, bird baths, or a beautiful tree. By focusing attention to one specific area, or areas, the surrounding space feels larger.

12. Keep it simple

Avoid overcrowding your garden with too many plants or decorations. A clean, uncluttered garden looks larger than one filled with lots of small items. This also includes hiding your wheelie bins. 

13. Strategic lighting

Use lighting to highlight specific areas, creating shadows and depth. Lighting up trees or plants can also enhance the vertical space.

Looking to improve your outdoor space? Check out our blog for more garden inspiration, or contact us today for our expert advice.