Trends to watch
Our resident guru CHARLIE ALBONE reveals the garden fads set to sweep our spaces
Another year, another opportunity to update your surroundings and make better use of your outdoor space. I’ve noticed a huge shift in gardens lately – rather than simply looking nice, they’re now enriching and improving our lives. So how do you create a hard-working g backyard?
Spaces within spaces
Privacy is important in a garden but new trends point towards a sense of enclosure. This doesn’t mean blocking out the neighbours with tall hedges but rather creating spaces that are focused on the people near you. A sunken courtyard, a fire pit area or screens to enclose and formalise ann an area are all gaining popularity.
Custom elements
Being enriched in a space comes from taking pride in that area, so ensure you integrate some craftsmanship in the finishes. This could be feature stonework, or detailed carpentry in a key area. By selecting a few areas that will be seen the most, you’ll get the most out of your investment in good workmanship.
Out-of-the-box layouts
Normally, outdoor dining areas and barbecues are located directly outside the back door, close to the kitchen. But by placing them further away from the house, you and your guests are forced to walk through the garden, taking it in as a whole sensory experience and making use of the entire space.
Love what you grow
Getting involved in the garden d will give you the knowledge to grow things that interest you. This doesn’t have to be produce-related – it can be cut flowers that you bring into the home, or maybe scented flowers. I’ve found the more interest you have e in what you grow, the more successful it will be. Be realistic about how much maintenance you can give your garden, and base your plant choices around that that.
Wildlife refuges
Wildlife habitats have been a huge part of European gardening for several years, but Aussies haven’t really adopted the idea yet. The benefits, however, of looking after beneficial bugs and giving them homes can’t be denied – think worms, chickens, bees and the like. We’re bound to see their unique little homes featuring more in new garden designs.
Optimise functionality
Space is getting tighter all the time, so it’s always a good idea to streamline a concept to eliminate clutter. Be smart about designing your smaller space. No longer is a bench just a seat – it needs to have storage, fold into a daybed and house a fire pit or water feature all at once!
Make it yours
Trends pass but making sure your garden enriches your life is timeless. However you create your outdoor space, remember you and your family are the ones using it, so make sure it brings a smile to your face on a daily basis.