As homeowners, we spend thousands of pounds transforming the interior of our homes, selecting the perfect mix of furniture, tones, materials and accents. Some of us are bold, others more traditional, but all of us will put a unique stamp on our modern ‘caves’.
However, when it comes to the garden, most people will throw down a few slabs, turf the rest and consider it done.
A garden can be a fresh space to spend time in. With the option to choose from a wide variety of paving, from natural stone to porcelain tiles, your garden can be a continuation of your interior décor, providing an additional ‘open room’ to your home.
At T Jeffords’ we specialise in themed garden transformations, whether that’s referencing a style such as Asian or Mediterranean, or building around a specific concept, such as ‘The Seashore’. Our in-house designer works with you to actualise your ideas, our trade contacts allow us to source one-off and luxury products and our craftsmen create beautiful, bespoke pieces.
1. Garden Art
A commissioned piece of artwork will draw the eye and provide a conversation point. It’s important to talk to the artist about the materials they have used and whether they are suitable for outdoors. Also, you need to consider the logistics of how the piece will be displayed. Think about the visual effect the final piece will have and where you will present it, then you can start to design how your garden will appear around it.
2. Shelter
Installing a shelter means that rain won’t stop play. There are many styles to choose from, so first of all pick something that fits in with your theme and consider how it will mainly be used; BBQs, parties, afternoon tea? Again, make sure you discuss the suitability of the materials with the manufacturer. Use the positioning of the shelter as a starting point to design pathways and planting around your garden.
3. Re-purposing
The environment is large in everyone’s consciousness at the moment, so what better way to minimise your impact on the planet than by up-cycling old items to make a fun display. Brightly painted tyres, bottles or beds built from old timber with colourful planting can create a shabby-chic effect, whilst also providing a haven for bees and other depleted wildlife. Alternatively, if you can source something a little bit unusual, such as a phone box, juke box or even a small vehicle, these can be planted up for a striking, unique finish.
4. Dry-stone walls
If you’re going rustic, rural or traditional, the only way to do properly is dry-stone structures. Not just for the country, dry-stone walls can be built to create a stunning impact. You can create beds or include integrated seating. They also provide a range of micro-climates for insects and reptiles. Birds and small animals will benefit from the nooks and crannies.
5. Water feature
There’s nothing so tranquil as sitting peacefully, the only sounds birdsong and the trickle of running water. Rather than pick something up from a garden centre, why not go for maximum impact. A fountain has an instant ‘wow’ factor, while a pond with an unusual deck or stone arrangement will be something to explore in a wilder garden.
6. Miniature landscapes
You don’t need a lot of space to create an impact. Planting up troughs or beds to imitate a larger landscape creates fascinating features. Make sure you get expert advice from a horticulturalist regarding plant suitability and ongoing care. Bonsai trees are an unusual and beautiful feature and follow in the Japanese tradition of using perspective to give the impression of a long-distance view or larger landscape.
For more research check out;
https://www.facebook.com/simongriffithssculpture/
https://www.myvisibleobject.co.uk/
www.engineering-fire.co.uk
https://www.flowershow.org.uk/
www.ornategarden.com
https://www.bambooconnections.co.uk/
https://www.rbge.org.uk/
