31 Creative Artificial Grass Ideas for Small Backyards: Transform Your Space

Discover how artificial grass can revolutionize your small backyard with these innovative design ideas. From modern geometric patterns to child-friendly play spaces, learn how synthetic turf can create a low-maintenance, year-round green oasis in even the most compact outdoor areas. Whether you're looking to maximize space, create distinct zones, or add a touch of luxury, these artificial grass solutions offer practical and aesthetically pleasing options for every style and need.

1 of 31

Geometric Pattern Play

Modern Geometric Artificial Grass Pattern - A stylish small backyard featuring artificial grass installed in a striking geometric pattern, with light gray concrete pavers creating a modern checkerboard design. The artificial turf sections are perfectly manicured, forming clean diagonal shapes that alternate with the pavers. Contemporary outdoor furniture in sleek white sits in one corner, while minimalist LED ground lighting highlights the pattern edges. The space is bordered by modern planters containing silver-green ornamental grasses, creating depth and visual interest. The geometric design is photographed from a slight elevated angle to showcase the pattern's dynamic effect in making the small space appear larger. Soft evening lighting creates subtle shadows that emphasize the clean lines and modern aesthetic.

Create visual interest by installing artificial grass in geometric patterns, alternating with pavers or decking. This modern approach breaks up the space while maintaining functionality. The clean lines and deliberate patterns make small spaces appear larger and more organized, perfect for contemporary home designs.

2 of 31

Multi-Level Turf Terraces

Modern Terraced Artificial Grass Levels - A stunning modern backyard featuring three elegant terraced levels with lush artificial grass, connected by sleek concrete steps. The lowest level includes a contemporary lounging area with minimalist outdoor furniture. The middle terrace showcases modern concrete planters with ornamental grasses and lavender. The highest level features built-in bench seating and geometric copper containers with Japanese maples. Natural stone retaining walls with integrated LED lighting separate each level. The artificial grass is perfectly manicured, creating a clean, sophisticated look against the geometric hardscaping. Photographed during golden hour with dramatic shadows casting across the terraces.

Transform a sloped backyard into an attractive terraced design using artificial grass on different levels. Each tier can serve a distinct purpose, from lounging areas to container gardens. This clever use of vertical space maximizes your small yard while creating visual intrigue.

3 of 31

Circular Oasis Design

Modern Circular Grass Oasis - A stunning small backyard featuring a perfectly circular artificial grass area, 12 feet in diameter, serving as a serene centerpiece. The vibrant emerald grass is surrounded by a contemporary spiral pathway made of light grey concrete pavers and white pebbles. Modern charcoal-colored Adirondack chairs and sleek outdoor cushions create an intimate seating area on the grass. Illuminated by strategically placed solar ground lights along the pathway edges. Low-maintenance ornamental grasses and lavender plants in modern concrete planters border the circular design. Captured during golden hour with soft lighting highlighting the geometric patterns. Aerial perspective showing the complete circular design.

Install a circular artificial grass area as a central focal point, surrounded by paved or graveled pathways. This design creates a striking visual impact and can make a small space feel more dynamic. Perfect for creating an intimate seating area or meditation space.

4 of 31

Kid-Friendly Play Zone

Playful Kids Paradise with Artificial Grass - A bright, cheerful small backyard setting featuring a vibrant green artificial grass play area. The space includes a colorful built-in hopscotch pattern, a mini golf putting hole with a red flag, and soft artificial turf perfect for children's activities. The play zone is bordered by modern wooden raised planters with ornamental grasses and lavender. Photographed in natural daylight with a children's playhouse in the background and string lights overhead. The artificial grass appears lush and inviting, with a visible cushioned underlayer for safety. Lifestyle photography style, showing the perfect blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Design a dedicated play area with shock-absorbing artificial grass perfect for children's activities. Include built-in game elements like hopscotch patterns or mini golf holes. The soft, durable surface provides year-round play opportunities while maintaining an attractive appearance.

5 of 31

Mediterranean Courtyard

Mediterranean Artificial Grass Courtyard - A charming small Mediterranean courtyard bathed in warm sunlight, featuring a pristine patch of emerald artificial grass as the centerpiece. Large weathered terracotta pots line the edges, filled with sculptural Mediterranean cypress and blooming bougainvillea. A rustic limestone fountain serves as a focal point, while decorative stone pavers create an elegant border around the artificial turf. Whitewashed walls provide a classic backdrop, adorned with climbing jasmine. Cast iron garden furniture and vintage-style lanterns complete the sophisticated Mediterranean atmosphere. The scene is captured during golden hour, emphasizing the warm, inviting ambiance.

Create a low-maintenance Mediterranean-style courtyard by combining artificial grass with terracotta pots, architectural plants, and stone features. This design approach brings warmth and character while requiring minimal upkeep, perfect for busy homeowners.

6 of 31

Zen Garden Fusion

Modern Zen Garden with Artificial Grass - A serene modern Japanese-inspired garden featuring a pristine strip of emerald artificial grass bordered by light gray raked gravel patterns. Natural stone stepping stones create a meandering path through the space. Elegant black bamboo shoots rise from strategic points, casting gentle shadows. A small meditation area includes a low wooden platform floating over the artificial turf, accompanied by a traditional stone lantern. Smooth river rocks and carefully placed boulders add sculptural elements, while a small water feature provides gentle sounds. The scene is captured during golden hour, with soft lighting enhancing the peaceful atmosphere.

Blend artificial grass with traditional Japanese garden elements like rocks, gravel, and bamboo. Create peaceful pathways and meditation spaces that combine the best of modern convenience with timeless tranquility.

7 of 31

Contemporary Grid Layout

Modern Grid Garden with Artificial Grass - A stylish contemporary small backyard featuring a geometric checkerboard pattern of artificial grass squares alternating with light gray concrete panels, creating a stunning grid layout. The 2x2 foot squares form a perfect 4x4 grid, surrounded by sleek charcoal border pavers. Minimal modern outdoor furniture includes a slate gray lounge chair in one corner. Three rectangular concrete planters with architectural bamboo plants add height and sophistication. Shot during golden hour with dramatic shadows casting across the geometric pattern, photographed from a 45-degree elevated angle to showcase the striking pattern design. Hyper-realistic rendering, architectural photography style.

Design a modern checkerboard pattern using artificial grass squares alternating with concrete or wooden panels. This structured approach creates visual interest while maximizing the functionality of small spaces.

8 of 31

Poolside Paradise

Modern Poolside Artificial Grass Oasis - A pristine small rectangular pool surrounded by vibrant artificial grass in a modern backyard setting, photographed during golden hour. The synthetic turf is perfectly manicured, creating a seamless edge around the pool's crystal-clear water. Contemporary grey stone coping separates the pool from the artificial grass. Two sleek loungers rest on the artificial turf, with small potted bamboo plants adding vertical interest. The scene features soft lighting and clean lines, showcasing the perfect blend of water features and low-maintenance landscaping. Hyperrealistic photography style, architectural composition, 8k resolution.

Edge a small pool or spa with artificial grass to create a lush, safe, and slip-resistant surround. The grass provides a soft, cool surface for bare feet while maintaining a clean, manicured appearance year-round.

9 of 31

Urban Wildlife Haven

Urban Wildlife Sanctuary with Artificial Grass - A serene small backyard sanctuary featuring pristine artificial grass bordered by vibrant native wildflowers and flowering shrubs. A modern stone bird bath serves as a central focal point, surrounded by purple coneflowers, black-eyed susans, and butterfly bush. Small butterflies hover near the flowers while birds perch on the bath's edge. Natural stone pavers create a winding path through the space. The artificial turf is emerald green and perfectly manicured, contrasting beautifully with the wild, naturalistic planting borders. Soft evening lighting illuminates the scene, creating a magical urban oasis atmosphere. photorealistic, 4k, detailed nature photography style

Create a wildlife-friendly space by combining artificial grass with native plant borders and water features. This design allows for easy maintenance while still attracting birds and butterflies to your urban oasis.

10 of 31

Rooftop Retreat

Modern Urban Rooftop Oasis with Artificial Grass - A stunning modern rooftop terrace featuring lush artificial grass, photographed during golden hour. The space includes sleek built-in wooden benches with plush white cushions arranged in an L-shape. Contemporary concrete planters contain tall ornamental grasses, lavender, and compact bamboo, creating privacy screens. String lights crisscross overhead, and modern metal railings offer city skyline views. A minimalist outdoor coffee table sits centrally on the artificial turf. The grass appears perfectly manicured, creating a seamless green carpet effect against the urban backdrop. Textured throw pillows and a woven outdoor rug add warmth to the space. Architectural photography style, sharp details, warm evening lighting.

Transform a small rooftop space with artificial grass to create an elevated garden escape. Include built-in seating and container plants for a complete outdoor living room that's perfect for urban environments.

11 of 31

Pet-Perfect Paradise

Pet Paradise with Artificial Turf - A sunny small backyard featuring premium artificial grass with a modern pet-friendly design. A charming curved pathway divides the space, with a dedicated pet relief area discretely tucked behind decorative grasses. The main play area features buried rope toys and agility elements seamlessly integrated into the landscape. Contemporary raised planters with pet-safe ornamental grasses frame the space, while a cozy dog house with a green roof blends naturally into the setting. The artificial turf is lush and realistic, maintaining a perfectly manicured appearance despite active pet use. Soft lighting elements create a warm ambiance, highlighting the thoughtful design elements while ensuring safety for evening pet activities.

Design a pet-friendly space with durable artificial grass, including designated areas for pet relief and play. Incorporate features like buried toys or training elements while maintaining an attractive appearance.

12 of 31

Entertainment Hub

Modern Outdoor Cinema Garden Retreat - A cozy small backyard entertainment area at twilight, featuring lush artificial grass as the base. Modern built-in L-shaped wooden benches with plush weatherproof cushions line two sides of the space. A large projector screen hangs against a modern slatted privacy wall. Warm LED string lights are draped overhead creating a magical ambiance. Sleek floor-mounted uplighting illuminates potted bamboo plants in contemporary planters. A stylish outdoor projector setup is mounted discreetly. The artificial grass is perfectly manicured, providing a clean, modern foundation that ties the space together. Side tables hold drinks and snacks, while throw pillows add comfort and style. The overall scene is intimate and inviting, perfect for outdoor movie nights.

Create an outdoor entertainment area with artificial grass as the foundation, incorporating built-in seating, a projector screen, and mood lighting. Perfect for movie nights and social gatherings in small spaces.

13 of 31

Secret Garden Path

Enchanted Garden Path Through Artificial Grass - A magical, winding garden path made of natural stone pavers weaving through lush artificial grass, flanked by tall living green walls covered in climbing jasmine and ivy. Two weathered copper archways draped with purple wisteria create tunnel effects along the path. Modern LED ground lights illuminate the curves of the walkway. The intimate space features potted Japanese maples and ornamental grasses strategically placed to create mystery around the bends, with a rustic wooden bench visible in the distance. Soft evening lighting creates a dreamy atmosphere, with golden light filtering through the archways. Photorealistic, highly detailed, architectural visualization.

Design winding paths through artificial grass, bordered by vertical gardens and archways. This creates a sense of journey and discovery even in the smallest of spaces.

14 of 31

Modern Minimalist

Modern Minimalist Artificial Lawn with Steel Edging - A sleek and contemporary small backyard featuring a pristine rectangular artificial grass lawn bordered by polished steel edging. The grass is a vibrant emerald green, perfectly manicured, and surrounded by light gray concrete pavers. Clean geometric lines dominate the space, with a floating concrete bench along one edge. Subtle LED strip lighting runs along the steel border, creating a modern architectural feel. The minimalist design is enhanced by a single statement Japanese maple in a large cubic concrete planter, adding a touch of organic beauty to the structured space. Shot during golden hour with dramatic shadows casting geometric patterns.

Embrace clean lines with a simple artificial grass installation bordered by concrete or steel edging. This minimalist approach creates a serene, low-maintenance space perfect for contemporary homes.

15 of 31

Edible Garden Border

Modern Raised Bed Garden with Artificial Grass Border - A serene small backyard setting featuring neat artificial grass bordered by contemporary cedar raised garden beds. The raised beds contain a thriving mix of vegetables and herbs including basil, tomatoes, and lettuce. Clean geometric lines divide the space, with the vibrant green artificial turf creating a manicured path between the beds. Soft evening lighting illuminates the garden beds, casting gentle shadows across the artificial grass. A small modern wooden bench sits at one end, providing a peaceful spot to enjoy the edible garden. The overall composition shows a perfect balance between functional growing space and recreational area, photographed in warm natural lighting

Combine artificial grass with raised beds for herbs and vegetables. This practical design allows for both recreational space and home food production in limited areas.

16 of 31

Outdoor Office Space

Modern Outdoor Home Office with Artificial Grass - A serene outdoor home office setup in a small backyard, featuring a pristine artificial grass floor, a sleek modern glass-top desk with an ergonomic mesh chair. A contemporary pergola with retractable shade cloth provides protection, while minimalist potted bamboo plants create natural privacy screens. The space includes a modern floor lamp, a compact outdoor storage cabinet, and string lights for ambiance. The artificial grass is a vibrant emerald green, perfectly manicured, creating a professional yet natural workspace environment. Photographed in warm natural lighting with soft shadows.

Create a professional outdoor workspace with artificial grass flooring, weather-resistant furniture, and shade solutions. Perfect for remote workers seeking a natural environment without maintenance hassles.

17 of 31

Social Circle Design

Modern Circular Social Hub with Artificial Grass - A contemporary circular seating area in a small backyard, featuring lush artificial grass surrounded by sleek built-in curved benches with light gray cushions. The circular design is 12 feet in diameter with modern wooden bench seating integrated along the perimeter. Ambient LED lighting is tucked under the benches, creating a warm glow. Decorative potted bamboo plants are strategically placed between seating sections. The space is photographed from a high angle during golden hour, showing how the circular design creates an intimate conversation area. Clean lines and minimalist styling, with a few scattered outdoor pillows in sage green and white adding comfort.

Install a circular artificial grass seating area with built-in benches or ottoman-style seating. This design encourages conversation and makes efficient use of small spaces.

18 of 31

Living Wall Complement

Modern Living Wall with Artificial Grass Base - A stunning modern small backyard featuring a dramatic 8-foot-tall living wall with lush ferns, philodendrons, and flowering plants cascading down in a geometric pattern. The wall transitions seamlessly into a pristine artificial grass lawn at its base. Sleek metal planters frame the scene, while LED uplighting creates dramatic shadows on the living wall. The artificial turf is a vibrant emerald green, perfectly manicured, contrasting beautifully with the organic, flowing nature of the vertical garden. A single modern concrete bench sits against the wall, creating an intimate seating area.

Pair artificial grass with dramatic living walls to create a lush, vertical garden experience. This combination maximizes green space in tight areas while minimizing maintenance requirements.

19 of 31

Yoga and Meditation Space

Zen Garden Artificial Grass Meditation Space - A serene backyard meditation space featuring pristine artificial grass, with a contemporary wooden deck platform floating above the turf. Natural bamboo privacy screens create an intimate atmosphere, while plush waterproof meditation cushions in earth tones are arranged thoughtfully on the grass. Potted Japanese maples and tall ornamental grasses provide organic touches, with strategically placed LED ground lights creating a peaceful ambiance. Modern minimalist Buddha statue in the corner, with hanging string lights creating a gentle glow above the space. Morning sunlight filtering through the bamboo screens, casting gentle shadows on the emerald artificial turf.

Design a dedicated wellness area with artificial grass, incorporating built-in cushioned areas and privacy screens. Perfect for morning yoga or evening meditation sessions.

21 of 31

Multi-Function Grid

Modern Modular Artificial Grass Grid System - A stylish small backyard featuring a modern modular grid system of 3x3 removable artificial grass panels, each 2 feet square, set in a sleek dark metal frame. Two panels are removed to reveal a built-in wooden deck platform underneath, where modern outdoor furniture is arranged. The remaining grass panels are perfectly manicured, creating a checkerboard effect. Ambient LED strip lighting outlines the grid system, while potted bamboo plants in contemporary black planters frame the corners. The scene is captured during golden hour, showing the versatility of the space transitioning from a grass area to a dining setup.

Design a versatile space with removable artificial grass panels that can be rearranged for different purposes, from dining to lounging. This flexible approach maximizes the utility of small spaces.

22 of 31

Desert Oasis

Modern Desert Oasis with Artificial Grass - A stunning small backyard desert oasis featuring a pristine patch of emerald artificial grass bordered by modern landscaping. Large architectural succulents, including blue agave and barrel cacti, create dramatic focal points. Natural stone pathways made of light-colored decomposed granite weave through beds of decorative rocks in varying sizes and earth tones. Desert-adapted plants and geometric arrangements of smooth river rocks provide textural contrast against the artificial turf. Accent lighting highlights the sculptural forms of the succulents. Shot during golden hour with long shadows casting dramatic patterns across the landscape. Photorealistic, high resolution, landscape architecture style.

Combine artificial grass with desert landscaping elements like succulents and decorative rocks. This water-wise design creates a striking contrast while maintaining low maintenance requirements.

23 of 31

Reading Nook

Tranquil Backyard Reading Nook - A serene outdoor reading nook in a small backyard featuring plush artificial grass flooring, a modern hanging egg chair with cream cushions, draped with a soft throw blanket. A sleek wooden pergola provides partial shade, with wispy white outdoor curtains adding privacy. Potted lavender and ornamental grasses frame the space, while string lights create a magical ambiance. A modern side table holds books and a steaming cup of tea. The scene is captured in warm, natural lighting with soft shadows, creating an inviting and peaceful atmosphere perfect for reading.

Create a cozy outdoor reading corner with artificial grass flooring, comfortable seating, and strategic shade elements. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat in their backyard.

24 of 31

Game Court

Modern Backyard Game Court with Artificial Grass - A pristine, modern backyard game court featuring artificial grass with crisp white line markings for shuffleboard and bocce ball, surrounded by contemporary raised planters with ornamental grasses. The court is illuminated by modern string lights overhead, with sleek wooden benches along one side for spectators. Clean geometric design with minimalist landscaping, showing a game of bocce in progress with metal balls glinting in the warm evening light.

Design a multi-purpose game area with artificial grass incorporating permanent markings for various activities like shuffleboard or bocce. Ideal for entertaining and family activities.

25 of 31

Floating Garden

Modern Floating Garden Platforms with Artificial Grass - A contemporary small backyard featuring three floating wooden deck platforms at staggered heights, each covered in lush artificial grass. The platforms appear to hover above ground, connected by sleek wooden stairs. The lowest platform features modern outdoor furniture, the middle one has zen-inspired decorative elements with stone lanterns, and the highest platform showcases clean-lined planters with architectural bamboo. Warm LED strip lighting underneath each platform creates a magical floating effect. Modern glass railings ensure safety while maintaining visual flow. Dramatic uplighting illuminates the vertical spaces between platforms. The scene is photographed during golden hour, with soft lighting enhancing the dimensional layers. Photorealistic 4K quality.

Install artificial grass on raised platforms at different heights to create a floating garden effect. This design adds dimension to small spaces while providing distinct areas for different activities.

26 of 31

Smart Garden Integration

Modern Smart Garden with Integrated Tech - A twilight scene of a small modern backyard with pristine artificial grass, featuring sleek LED path lights embedded along curved borders. Smart garden speakers disguised as modern landscape rocks blend seamlessly with the design. Minimalist steel water features with integrated lighting create ambient streams of water. Contemporary outdoor furniture in dark charcoal sits on a floating deck platform with underglow lighting. The artificial turf has a lush, emerald tone with subtle mood lighting creating a soft glow from ground-level fixtures. Clean geometric planters with architectural plants frame the space, while a smart irrigation control panel is discretely mounted on a modern textured wall. The entire scene has a sophisticated, high-tech ambiance with a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Incorporate smart technology into your artificial grass space with integrated lighting, speakers, and irrigation systems. Perfect for creating an automated, modern outdoor living space.

27 of 31

Cocktail Garden

Modern Outdoor Cocktail Garden with Artificial Grass - Elegant outdoor cocktail garden at twilight featuring artificial grass flooring, a sleek built-in L-shaped bar with modern pendant lighting, and contemporary bar stools. The bar area includes raised planter boxes filled with fresh cocktail herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary. Ambient LED strip lighting illuminates the space, with a small vertical herb wall behind the bar. The artificial grass is perfectly manicured, creating a lush green foundation that contrasts beautifully with the modern charcoal gray bar structure. Glass shelving displays cocktail ingredients, while copper cocktail tools add warmth to the scene.

Design an sophisticated outdoor bar area with artificial grass flooring, built-in bar seating, and herb planters for cocktail ingredients. Ideal for evening entertainment in small spaces.

28 of 31

Four-Season Room

Modern Four-Season Sunroom with Artificial Grass Floor - A bright, modern four-season room with floor-to-ceiling windows, featuring artificial grass flooring that creates a seamless indoor-outdoor transition. Natural light streams through large glass panels, illuminating contemporary white furniture including a plush sectional sofa and rattan hanging chair. Potted fiddle leaf figs and monstera plants create a lush atmosphere. The artificial grass is a vibrant emerald green, providing a fresh garden feel. Modern pendant lights hang from a white vaulted ceiling, while sliding glass doors open to the backyard. Decorative elements include woven baskets, textured throw pillows, and a sleek coffee table, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere perfect for year-round enjoyment.

Create an indoor-outdoor space using artificial grass as flooring in a covered patio or sunroom. This design allows for year-round enjoyment regardless of weather conditions.

29 of 31

Urban Farm Blend

Modern Urban Farm with Artificial Grass - A stunning modern small backyard featuring a perfect blend of artificial grass and vertical farming, photographed during golden hour. The space showcases a sleek 8-foot-tall vertical hydroponic garden system with vibrant lettuce, herbs, and strawberries growing in white modular panels against a contemporary grey wall. The lush artificial grass covers 60% of the space, maintaining a pristine emerald green color. Modern LED grow lights illuminate the vertical garden, creating a sophisticated ambiance. A small seating area with minimalist outdoor furniture sits on the artificial turf, highlighting the dual functionality of the space. Several stainless steel hydroponic towers are arranged along the edges, growing tomatoes and peppers. The overall composition creates a harmonious balance between technology and nature, urban farming and relaxation space, photographed in 4K ultra-realistic detail.

Combine artificial grass with vertical farming elements and hydroponic systems. This innovative approach allows for both recreational space and sustainable food production in limited areas.

30 of 31

Water Feature Integration

Modern Zen Water Feature with Artificial Grass - A serene modern backyard setting featuring a sleek rectangular water fountain with three cascading levels, surrounded by pristine artificial grass. The fountain is made of dark polished concrete with LED underlighting, creating gentle reflections on the water's surface. Natural stone steps lead to a small meditation area with a wooden bench. The artificial turf is emerald green and perfectly manicured, meeting the fountain's edge with precision. Japanese maple trees in contemporary planters frame the scene, while ornamental grasses sway gently beside the water feature. The entire space is photographed during golden hour, with the setting sun creating a warm, peaceful ambiance.

Design a peaceful retreat by incorporating water features like fountains or streams alongside artificial grass areas. The combination of water elements and low-maintenance turf creates a serene atmosphere.

31 of 31

Outdoor Theater

Cozy Backyard Theater with Tiered Artificial Grass Seating - A charming evening scene of a small backyard theater setup with three tiered levels of artificial grass seating, adorned with scattered bohemian floor cushions and throw pillows. A large white projection screen mounted on a modern grey wall, illuminated by soft string lights draped overhead. Small LED pathway lights line the grass tiers for safety. Potted bamboo plants frame the corners, while compact outdoor speakers are discretely positioned. The artificial grass is a vibrant emerald green, perfectly manicured, creating an intimate amphitheater-style setting. A projector sits on a sleek modern stand, with a bowl of popcorn and drinks visible on a small side table.

Create an intimate outdoor cinema with tiered artificial grass seating areas facing a projection wall. Perfect for family movie nights or sporting events in the comfort of your backyard.

FAQ's

How long does artificial grass typically last in a small backyard?

Quality artificial grass can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. In small backyards, where wear is often less intense, it may last even longer. The lifespan depends on factors like usage, installation quality, and maintenance routine.

Is artificial grass suitable for areas with pets?

Yes, artificial grass is pet-friendly when properly installed with appropriate drainage and infill. Choose pet-specific artificial grass products that are more durable and include antimicrobial properties to prevent odors.

How do I maintain artificial grass in a small backyard?

Maintenance is simple: regularly remove debris with a leaf blower or rake, rinse occasionally to remove dust, brush the fibers to keep them upright, and address any spills promptly. Small spaces typically require less maintenance than larger installations.

What is the average cost of installing artificial grass in a small backyard?

The cost typically ranges from $8-$12 per square foot for professional installation, including materials. Small backyards might have higher per-square-foot costs due to minimum charges and setup fees, but the overall project cost remains lower due to the smaller area.