"Mel" wrote in message
...
My problem isn't with the small size of my garden; it's the slope *combined
with* the smallness that's giving me problems.

Books and tv programmes give ideas on how to design for a slope, but only
for larger gardens. My garden is small and squat, so if I terrace the area,
there won't be any room on each terrace for sitting or for my kids to play
(plus I can't afford the costs of moving tons of earth).

If anyone has the time and the inclination, I've posted a couple of photos
of my garden at http://homepage.ntlworld.com/melanie.mccluskey/garden/ and
invite design ideas and hints!

Many thanks,
Mel

Your slope does not look too extreme really, but it looks to me as if you could
'flatten' the grass area if you really want a flat space.

You'd have to dig everything up and start from scratch but maybe you could get
all your friends and relations round one weekend for a digging 'party' ? Or hire
a mini digger for the day ?

Cormaics site has loads of info on retaining walls etc:
http://www.pavingexpert.com/featur04.htm

Jenny