I have a very small garden, maybe if you look at my 'photos it will give you some ideas.

My neighbour has a half barrel with some fish and a small waterlily and a trickling fountain! Don't be tempted to plant your garden with all small plants and shrubs. One or two large leaved plants can look great and stop the garden looking like a fruit cake! Beware of invasive plants, though. These are usually donated to you in a plastic bag by well-wishers (they are really trying to get rid of the thugs!!). Post some photos.

Also, use the height of the fences/walls. If you work out their surface area it makes your garden even bigger!

I'd agree with Volunteer - 'clothe' the fences with climbers like Clematis or climbing roses, or annual climbers maybe - Cobaea scandens is a good fast grower. Use colour, too - and the curves are a good idea, with focal points to 'draw' the eye onwards, such as a pot of Cannas, or something equally eye-catching. Try to have some structural evergreen shrubs if possible, so that the garden doesn't become empty in the winter. If you want bulbs, though, either plant them in pots that can die back in a corner, or stick to small ones that can be planted in the soil and stay there.

thank you for all comments, some really good ideas