This small urban city garden had no real style. The client had pursued a minimal design look inside the house and liked the idea of a minimal Zen style yard that also accommodated their young daughter in some way. The existing deck was to be maintained. The deck had an orange style paint stain that made it an overly strong element in a small yard and was unattractive. The deck was power washed to remove this and reveal a natural aged wood surface – a toned down look more in keeping with the ‘Zen experience’ desired. Off the deck the lower garden area was turned into a small intimate sitting area with jet black granite stone to act as a visual focal point area. The vertical slat screens placed just off the back and sides of the patio gives the space a sense of intimacy creating a small outdoor room. The screens lined with bamboo and river rock at the base help provide a truly minimal Asian look. The final touch was the addition of the salvaged wood post and beam structure which completed the feel of a room and added character to the space. This allowed a swing to hang for the client’s young daughter to swing on. Though this is a tiny garden this space now serves multiple functions and provides a great outdoor experience off the house.