Some design fundamentals

Some Design Fundamentals

Solid fundamentals can transform your design process. In this lesson I'll run you through them.

Split Your Designs Into Three Areas

Nearly all garden designs benefit from being split into three distinct areas. I usually divide these areas as below:

• a patio or terrace directly in front of the door leading to the garden from inside
• then the lawn or main area 'where the action' happens. This can have planting, pathways, seating etc
• a third area, which depending on the aspect of your garden could be a play area, a garden building or vegetable patch.

Easily Forgotten Essentials

Some things are often forgotten when planning a garden:

• storage
• access – can you get a lawnmower from the shed to the lawn?
• an outside tap
• space for a water butt to collect rainwater
• lighting and cabling or ducting (housing for cabling).

Gardens of All Sizes Are Wonderful

Small gardens can be really exciting. The possibilities and opportunities are almost endless depending on how you want to use your garden.

Make Use of the Materials You Already Have

When putting your list together, look at what's in your garden that you can keep.

• Try to keep trees unless they're very unhealthy.
• Celebrate what you have and what your neighbours have that you can borrow.
• Make use of existing materials such as old bricks or paving. I had a lot of stones that I dug up in my garden and made a rockery.
• Local materials will sit well with the house.

Summary

You don't need a clean slate when you start making your garden – you just need clear ideas.

Try to keep existing trees and flowering shrubs, as these are good structural elements to start forming your garden.

Don't be despondent about the size of your garden. I love a small garden – they're so satisfying, and once you've got it right, you'll be more outside than in.