SMALL SPACES, BEAUTIFUL GARDENS

A near-architectural design strategy is king in this heartening guide for owners of small plots of land. Mosaic brickwork, a few well-placed tiles, terraces, stone walls, benches tucked into corners and flora, flora, flora. Landscape designer and author Davitt recommends, among other ideas, curves "to elicit a sense of organic motion," texture for added dimension, mixed and matched leaves for lushness, and dividing the garden up to make it seem "larger than the sum of its areas." By designing their own ponds, walkways, arbors, "rooms" and patios, urban and suburban residents can achieve a harmonious privacy in spaces that seem to offer little. (Feb.)