A well designed garden is a huge asset to your home, especially now when we value our outdoor spaces and access to nature more than ever before. If your garden is let down by a poor layout, or is just the worse from years of neglect, now might be the perfect time to consider an overhaul.
A garden that is both practical and visually appealing will help to make your home a pleasure to live in, as well as add value to your house. Here are some points to think about when you are planning your dream garden makeover.
Assess your plot
The best place to start is with an overall assessment of your outside space. Do you want to get rid of existing features such as sheds, patios, and paths? Consider if they can be integrated into your new design or whether it would be best to start from scratch.
If you want to remove planting such as trees and hedges, bear in mind that this may impact on soil drainage and could lead to waterlogged ground. Mature trees may be subject to a Tree Protection Order, so always check with your local council before having them removed or carrying out crowning or pruning work.
Trees and hedges can also provide shade and privacy, so consider how this might affect your garden once they are removed. Do you want to install screens or fencing to grow climbing plants on for example?
Does the ground need landscaping?
A common problem with gardens is steep slopes that are difficult to mow and have limited use for children to play games on, or to just make it an awkward space to spend the afternoon on a sunlounger or entertain guests. It may be possible to level the ground completely, or to level areas with terraces or patios.
Creating different levels within an existing flat garden can be a way to add interest. It also gives you more defined zones for each area of the garden, so you can use one level for outdoor cooking and dining, one level for planting, and one for children’s games and so on.
Mock up some possible layouts
The layout of your garden and which features you want to include will depend on how you want to use the space, your budget and timescale, and any limitations imposed by size and existing features such as trees and ponds.
Experiment with some different designs by sketching them out on paper, using computer software, or even building cardboard mock-ups. Take a look around your neighbours’ or friends’ gardens for inspiration, or browse some gardening magazines.
Consider the best materials to use
If you are building new features such as paths and patios, research the different materials available to help you make the decision. Consider how well the materials will fit in with the style of your house and garden. Natural stone might be the best choice for a period property for example, while contemporary porcelain tiles might suit a newer build.
If you are looking for landscaping services, please get in touch with us today.