These days, there are many ways you can change your home from being good to great. This may involve redecorating indoors, or turning your porch into a summer hangout. With a few practical steps, you could turn your outdoor area into the perfect environment for relaxation. In this article, we’ll provide some advice on how to upgrade your garden into a more beautiful space.
Choose A Theme
Whether you want to create a peaceful retreat or outdoor entertainment area, the right theme can help you achieve it. One popular option is the cottage garden design, which features colourful blooms and lush foliage. When done well, this can exude a charming and romantic vibe. You could alternatively opt for a modern minimalist theme with clean lines, geometric shapes, and neutral colours. This would help create a sleek and sophisticated look.
You may wish to consider growing a herb garden in order to combine aesthetics with functionality. This would typically feature various herbs planted in raised beds or containers, arranged in an organized manner. This would not only add visual appeal to your outdoor space, but it could also provide fresh herbs for cooking purposes.
Create a Focal Point
A focal point draws the eye to a specific area or object, making it the centrepiece of your garden. This can be achieved in several ways, such as adding a sculpture or brightly coloured flower bed. If you install some spotlighting, it can help to highlight the chosen object/area. If you have a Japanese-inspired garden, you may want to incorporate a traditional pagoda or lantern as your focal point. If you prefer modern design elements, consider adding a geometric sculpture or sleek fountain.
The internet can be a useful tool when it comes to making the right selection. If you’re seeking a large concrete fountain you can choose by price and brand, and view photos, product descriptions, and star ratings. There are often installation FAQs and ways to subscribe for free shipping and discounts.
Incorporate Structures
One popular choice is a pergola or arbour, which can provide shade as well as support for climbing plants like roses or ivy. Another option is a trellis, which can be used to create privacy or define different areas of the garden.
When choosing structures for your garden, consider the style and materials that’ll work best with your existing landscape design. If you have a rustic or natural look, wood might be best. If you prefer modern designs, metal might be more appropriate. Additionally, think about how much maintenance each structure will require. Whilst wood offers charm and character, it also requires more upkeep than some other materials.
Enhance Your Patio Or Decking Area
In terms of greenery, you could add some potted plants or hanging baskets. This would add aesthetic value to your patio whilst providing fresh air and a calming atmosphere. Always choose plants that are suitable for the amount of sunlight, shade, and rain in your outdoor space. You may also wish to incorporate some fresh lighting elements. String lights, lanterns, and candles can create a warm ambience for evening gatherings with friends and family.
Finally, consider buying comfortable seating options like lounge chairs, benches, or even hammocks (if space permits). You can also add accessories such as throw pillows and cushions to make the area feel cosy and warm. They could have fun patterns that match the surrounding greenery, or complement other design elements in the yard.
Upgrade Any Pathways and Walkways
Adding some texture, colour, or pattern to a plain concrete path can create an inviting and unique look. You can use different materials such as brick, stone, gravel, or even wood. In turn, these could create an interesting pathway that complements your garden’s theme.
Installing solar-powered lights along the path would improve safety by illuminating the way. This would also add a magical atmosphere during nighttime strolls through the garden. Also, don’t forget to consider the plants surrounding the pathway. You could add some low-growing plants bordering each side of the path, or place potted plants strategically throughout.
Install A Pond
Not only do these add visual interest, but they also provide a home for aquatic plants and animals. The ideal location would be somewhere that’s visible from a seating area or pathway. Make sure there are no underground utilities or pipes that could be damaged during excavation. In terms of size and shape, it’s best to keep your pond proportionate to the size of your garden. A kidney-shaped pond is a popular option because it looks natural, and provides plenty of surface area for plants and animals.
Consider adding filtration equipment to ensure that the water stays clean and clear. You can choose from mechanical filters, biological filters, or UV clarifiers, depending on your needs and budget. Finally, why not add a fountain to your pond? This would be a delight to watch, and it would create a soothing sound. In turn, this could help mask the din of traffic or the noise from people’s voices.
Encourage Wildlife
It’s great to contribute to the environment and create a natural habitat for birds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. A simple way to invite birds into your garden is to provide them with a bird bath. This would serve as a source of water, and provide a place for them to wash and cool down during hot weather.
Nesting boxes provide shelter and protection for different species of birds. You can buy pre-made versions from hardware or gardening stores. They’re easy to install on trees or posts around your garden space. Keep them out of the range of animals like cats. Also, place them well apart from one another, so birds don’t have territorial disputes. Finally, you could purchase a bird table in order to feed your feathered friends – especially during the winter when food’s scarcer.
No doubt you now feel more inspired and ready to upgrade your garden. Not only will your outdoor space become more beautiful to look at. It’ll also be more functional, and a delight to your friends and guests.
