Eye-catching plantings turn this charming cottage into a special home, yet the yard doesn't demand much upkeep because the plants were chosen for their small size or slow growth. Although this home sits on a narrow lot with a small front yard and an optional driveway, the designer hasn't skimped on the landscape. The tiny grounds boast a wealth of plants in a striking range of colors, textures, and shapes. The key to successfully landscaping such a small space is to use compact plants that won't outgrow their welcome. Because of the tight quarters, the designer has also chosen to plant a single deciduous tree instead of forming the more traditional triad. The design has aspects of symmetry and formality--the flagstone walk dividing the yard in half, perennials repeated on either side of the walk, identical pools of lawn, and matching dwarf conifers flanking the porch steps--but the overall effect is informal. Flagstone pavers lead from the walk around the left side of the property only, providing access to cars parked in the driveway. The visual weight of this border balances that of the evergreen tree and cluster of shrubs on the opposite side of the property. This petite, but lush, landscape requires little effort to maintain, and even the patches of lawn can be cut quickly with a reel mower. However, if you wanted to reduce maintenance even further, you could eliminate the lawn and extend the groundcover. The design may also be adapted to a lot without a driveway or a garage.