Design & decorate: Outdoor rooms

Have a vision of your garden heaven, but not sure how to achieve it? Read on for top tips and advice on how to create your perfect outside space

Planning your space

You have the garden, and you’re ready to transform it into an oasis, but there are some points to consider first.


  • Ask an expert Employing a professional could be a good investment. Even if you’re on a budget, an expert can help turn your ideas into achievable plans. Contact The Society of Garden Designers for a list of accredited designers.


  • Privacy ‘You’re more likely to use an outside space if it’s well screened,’ says Patrick Wynniatt-Husey of Wynniatt-Husey Clarke Garden Designers. ‘So the perimeter is all-important. Choose quality fencing, and soften it with planting. For example, black bamboo against a red cedar fence looks stunning.’


  • Materials ‘A small garden can look messy if there’s lots going on,’ says Simon Thomas of The London Garden Design Company. ‘Instead, use hard landscaping (walls, decking, paving etc) to create interest.’ Cheap options are a false economy, so choose quality materials that will age well and need minimum upkeep, such as hardwood. Sandstone, slate and basalt are also ideal, or porcelain tiles that can imitate stone, concrete or wood.


  • Maintenance Ask yourself how much work you are really willing to do. If the answer is ‘none, ideally’, avoid grass, as it will need attention at least once a fortnight in summer, and steer away from fruiting or blossoming plants, as falling debris is a pain to clear,’ warns Katrina Wells. Pots need constant watering, so consider installing a timed irrigation system. ‘Leafy specimens are easy to care for, and don’t look sad in winter,’ says Amir Schlezinger at MyLandscapes.co.uk. ‘Silver birch, bamboo, ferns, grasses, palms and phormium create dramatic, but low-maintenance schemes.’

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