If you are brave, and want something different, then a Japanese garden can be adapted to even a tiny space. It sets out to provide a tranquil environment round a house, and in years gone by, every element would have been symbolic of some aspect of nature or human life. The symbolism is less apparent now, but interpreting the style to create stillness and calm is increasingly attractive in today’s frenetic world.

Much of the atmosphere derives from a minimal use of materials, stone, water and plant greenery. Flowers play a limited role and those which are used have a strong form such as lilies, chrysanthemums and irises. Water is a vital element, but still or gently flowing down stream, rather than cascading. If water isn’t practical, sand or stones can be raked to represent a stream.

To divide the space, walls are out but bamboo screens are in, and Japanese style lanterns in stone or wood are both practical and add to the atmosphere. All plants are used sparingly — this is a designer’s style and not one for enthusiastic planters. No calling in to a nursery and popping in something you couldn’t resist in this scheme — restraint is everything.