Garden revisions to avoid: Adjustments to avoid in your outdoor space and alternative solutions

In the world of garden design, creativity and functionality go hand in hand. Two renowned designers, Libby Webb and Miria Harris, share their insights on how to make the most of your outdoor space.

Creating multiple seating areas in a garden can give reasons to explore and experience different aspects of the garden. Instead of having just one vast area right outside the kitchen, a diversity of seating and eating spots make a space more multi-dimensional. This approach turns your garden into a captivating journey, inviting you to discover hidden gems at every turn.

If parking is at a premium in your street, consider keeping the parking area as small as possible and including as much planting as you can. Low groundcover plants will live happily beneath a parked car, providing a splash of colour and life even in the most practical of spaces.

A tightly packed hedge can help filter air pollution and sound, making your garden a tranquil haven. Not only does it serve as a natural barrier, but it also provides shelter, food, and habitat for wildlife. An S-shaped path or one with a slight curve can work well in a long, thin garden to prevent shortcuts across it and add a touch of intrigue.

Layers of texture and height through trees and tall perennials add drama and depth to the garden, creating a visually appealing landscape that changes with the seasons. A dense hedge makes an excellent windbreak, filtering the wind and protecting your garden from the elements.

Instead of cutting down a tree, consider embracing it, pruning it, or planning the rest of the garden around it. A tree brings life, shade, and character to your garden, and it's a decision that benefits both you and the local wildlife.

Designers call these 'destination spaces' to entice you to use all of the garden and create more areas to explore. Don't be afraid to plant trees and shrubs towards the centre of the garden. These destination spaces, combined with a curving or winding path, can reveal your garden's delights slowly and keep some elements hidden from view, encouraging exploration and discovery.

Hedging can be less costly than fencing, especially when planted as bareroot plants in winter. A path or stepping stones straight down the garden can make a rectangular or long, thin space feel more narrow and look like a runway, while a large patio or deck covering a large space along the back of the house or at the bottom of the garden is not usually the best idea. It's better to create various places around the garden to enjoy at different times of the day.

Swap lawn for plastic grass can be a tempting idea, but it is a terrible option for wildlife and most plastic grass cannot be recycled. Narrow borders around the edge of a lawn can be transformative; generously sized areas of greenery will help make the space feel larger.

In conclusion, the magic of garden design lies in its ability to blend practicality with aesthetics, creating a space that is both functional and beautiful. By following these expert tips, you can transform your garden into a captivating oasis that you'll love spending time in.

Garden revisions to avoid: Adjustments to avoid in your outdoor space and alternative solutions