Space to Play... without Living on a Lawn

When it comes to designing a family-friendly garden, it’s easy to default to the idea that “kids need a lawn.” And sure, a patch of grass has its place, but that doesn’t mean your whole backyard needs to look like a sports field.

Kids can get as much out of good landscaping as you do.

At Tim’s Garden, we work with plenty of families who want to strike a balance: a space that’s playful and practical for little ones, but still stylish, structured, and suited to adult life too.

Here’s how we do it:

1. Zones, not sprawl. 

Rather than one big open lawn, we create distinct zones: a soft area for kicking a ball, a path for scooters, a raised vege bed kids can help tend, or a sandpit tucked into its own little nook. Defined spaces give kids freedom, without sacrificing flow or aesthetics.

2. Multi-use surfaces.

Hardscaping with smooth pavers or decking can double as bike tracks, chalk art canvases, or places to play hopscotch… then clean up beautifully for grown-up entertaining.

3. Natural play features. 

Logs to climb, stepping stones, hideaways among the planting… Nature offers so many opportunities for imaginative play without bright plastic equipment. We often integrate playful elements subtly into the landscape for a more organic look.

4. Future-proofing. 

Kids grow fast, so we design with longevity in mind: flexible spaces that evolve as play shifts from mud kitchens to basketball hoops to teen hangouts.

Because your garden should be a place where memories are made, and still look good from the patio.

There are many methods to incorporating kids play areas without sacrificing outdoor aesthetic.

Let’s design a space the whole family can enjoy, without surrendering to the mower.

Let's talk