Scale is important, too. In a large garden, you would not want a piece so small that it dwindles to insignificance. Conversely, while a big piece has impact in a small garden you would not want it to dominate. Simplicity and restraint are the key: one good piece, well sited, looks better than several dotted around at random. Ideally, try to see domestic gardens featuring other work by your chosen sculptor or company to get ideas about positioning and to ensure the style suits your garden before you buy or commission.

In terms of effect, do you want a Classical piece to draw the eye down an avenue of trees or shrubs, or a work that is modern and abstract? Maybe you want to introduce humour or play with scale. Do you want the sculpture to have visual impact, be functional or quirky?

Generally, statues are best seen in isolation rather than among busy plantings, but they can be enhanced by a swirl of ivy around the plinth or set against the dark green of a yew hedge. A smaller Classical piece looks good on a cushion of 'Soleirolia soleirolii'. A bust on a wall panel can be surrounded by greenery such as evergreen jasmine or the leaves of 'Melianthus major' with summer colour from coming from the bell-like flowers of abutilon.

For a contrast of textures an abstract metal sculpture set among a tall, feathery grass such as 'Stipa gigantea' creates a pleasing look.