The design of a small European villa courtyard often involves creating a harmonious blend of traditional European architectural elements with a compact, intimate garden space. Key considerations include the use of hardscaping elements like pathways, walls, and garden structures, as well as softscaping with plants, trees, and water features. The design should enhance the aesthetic appeal of the villa while ensuring functionality and privacy. It's important to balance the space effectively, making use of garden design principles such as unity, diversity, repetition, and contrast to create a visually pleasing and cohesive outdoor environment.