With the first signs of spring beginning to appear outside, those dreams of being able to spend more time outside in the sunshine suddenly don’t seem so far off, and if your garden is in need of a little bit of TLC to get it ready for the warmer season ahead, then there’s no time like the present to start giving it some attention.
It couldn’t be easier to breathe new life into your outdoor space, and a few simple tweaks is all that’s required to make a big difference. By reassessing your layout and making better use of the space you have, you can instantly make it feel more inviting, and add a touch of elegance that is guaranteed to impress those summer social guests.
Whether your goal is to create a tranquil oasis of beauty, a modern outdoor living space, or a vibrant garden of colour, here are some easy ways to get things moving.
Choose a colour scheme
Choosing a colour scheme is the first step in creating a stylish garden. Green is almost always going to be present in your grass, plants and foliage, but selecting one or two other hues – for example, pinks and purples or pastels – and basing your aesthetic decisions around them will help to give your garden a stylish and more put-together feel.
You can make use of your chosen colour palette by matching the colours to those of the flowers you choose to plant, adding cushions and other accessories to your garden furniture or hanging bunting – in fact, there are a host of creative ways to do so. When picking your colour scheme, keep in mind the type of atmosphere you’d like to create – for a calming space, light greens and blues work well, while for a vibrant and energetic vibe, going wild with bright colours will quickly inject a sense of fun.
Incorporate textures
In addition to colours, incorporating various textures in your garden can make it more visually interesting. Try to mix up smooth, bumpy, and soft textures when you are designing your garden – for example, by planting a variety of different types of plants in groups to add interest, or combining grassy areas with jagged gravel areas or smooth patio slabs.
Using different textures in such a way is also a great means of dividing up the space you have to create different areas – like a social space for your garden furniture and barbecue grill, or a tranquil spot designed purely for relaxing.
Create a focal point
Creating a focal point in your garden is an easy way to add a sense of aesthetic flair. For dramatic effect, consider adding a large sculpture, an ornamental fountain, or a beautiful piece of furniture to draw the eye and create a lasting impression. You could also use a garden arch or trellis to add an element of style and intrigue, while a garden veranda can work well not just as an attractive feature, but a practical and functional space for your guests to enjoy, too.
Add garden accessories
Garden accessories are another simple yet effective way to add both style and function to your outdoor space. Adding beautiful planters, hanging baskets, and other decorative items in strategic locations around the garden will add interest and polish – but remember the mantra that less is more when it comes to creating an opulent looking space, and be careful not to go overboard.
Outdoor lighting, such as solar lights and string lights are another great tip and will provide a soft glow and create a warm and inviting atmosphere during those long summer’s evenings outside. You can also use them to highlight specific areas of interest in the garden – for example, that focal point feature you’re keen to show off – or to light pathways so that it’s easier for your guests to and from your house to the garden and back again when they need to.
Final thoughts
Adding style to your garden doesn’t have to be a difficult task, and with a little creativity and patience, you can transform your outdoor space into a beautiful and stylish oasis with minimal effort. Take the time to consider your style and incorporate colours, textures, and accessories that you love and you’ll create a gorgeous garden that you can enjoy for many years to come.
