When Relationship Manager Hayley, her husband John, and 10-year-old son Alfie moved into their home six years ago, they spent the first few years renovating the house, leaving the backyard. Consequently, it became a dumping ground for a lot of the building supplies and leftover bits and bobs. 

Once the dust had settled, she realized that the unloved garden was in desperate need of some care and attention. While Hayley had lots of ideas of what she’d like, she was fully aware that she was very new to gardening and that it really needed to be easy to maintain. 

She also needed garden design ideas that had multiple functions, including entertainment and storage.

The original garden and how it looked before

The 20 by 15ft backyard sits behind a 1950's three-bedroom house in Bedfordshire in the UK. The garden was overgrown, unkempt, and lacked style when Hayley and her family moved into the house. 

But with the house needing a huge renovation, figuring out how to plan the garden design was last on the list of jobs and they also lacked the funds to tackle the space.

'The garden wasn't always my favorite part of the house as it wasn't huge, but during our renovations, it had gotten worse,' says Hayley. 'The surrounding garden fence was falling apart and totally mismatched. The borders were full of overgrown shrubs, and as for the patio, it was cracked and discolored. The whole area was sloped and unbalanced, it really wasn't a place I liked hanging my washing, let alone entertaining!'

The plan for the makeover

Hayley decided she wanted to create a fixed seating area with the best garden furniture, a few raised beds, and a small shed to keep tools and act as a place for her son Alfie to hang out with his buddies. 

She also wanted to be able to step out of the house onto a new patio, rather than having a big drop down from the back door. With some help from Alfie, who sees himself as a bit of a budding garden designer, she sat down and planned the space. 

Although they had a budget for the materials, they would have to do most of the work themselves. 'I knew this would save us some money, but also appreciated it would take us longer,' says Hayley.

Laying a new patio

Having got a few ideas from Instagram, gardening books, and magazines, she decided she wanted a modern, urban look with lots of greenery. She found some stylish, tiled patio materials from Bradstone, which had a concrete, seamless feel once laid, and thought they would be great for the patio. 

They laid the new DIY patio directly onto the old patio, which was leveled with sand and cement, with the help of a family friend. The new sleek finish instantly made the garden feel much bigger.

Addressing the boundary

With the agreement of the neighbors, Hayley was able to replace all the fencing so it would match around the garden. In keeping with her modern garden ideas she chose some new slatted fencing from Forest Garden, and decided to go for a bold black for her garden fence color. 

'I knew it would take a while, but it took a few weeks to finish the paint – knowing how to paint a fence in between each slat was quite tricky but the finished panels looked amazing, and I knew we'd made the right decision,' she says.

Multi-functional storage solutions

With the fencing in place, the couple picked the best shed which looked aesthetically pleasing but also had space for tools. Because of its style, it had the look of a playhouse, which was ideal for Alfie to play in with his friends. 

The side shed storage idea was perfect for all the tools and bits that needed to be kept out of the way. The original color of the shed was a rather bright orange wood, so the couple painted it with a soft gray shade. 

'I wanted to soften the garden and make the shed stand out from the fence. The shade also complemented the floor tiles and I think it gives the space some depth,' says Hayley.

With everything coming together, rather than leave the walls of the house in brick, the couple decided to clad it with robust, weatherproof composite cladding. This really brought the whole space together.

Creating an entertaining area

The couple decided on an L-shaped seating area near the patio which was built with breeze blocks and then finished with a deeper gray tile to create the seat. While the seat would be fixed and hard, Hayley knew she could layer it up with cushions and throws to make it comfy. 

She also chose a rustic wooden garden table which fitted perfectly in the space, and a bench to add extra seating.  

The family loves a barbecue, so they designated a small area to house the grill. A tall table was built to hide the gas bottle, and doubles up as a serving area for entertaining friends and family. It is also big enough for the pizza oven to sit on top. 

A low-maintenance planting scheme

When it came to planting, Hayley knew she'd struggle to maintain anything too heavy-duty. So, they included some raised garden bed ideas in one corner and another set of raised beds built into the back of the seating area to zone the space and separate it from the shed. 

Rather than render all the breeze blocks for the beds and seating, they chose to cover them with brick-style slips, which give the feeling of individual tiles.

To soften the seating area, they added a wooden post on either side to give height and support climbing plants. On this occasion, Hayley decided to grow clematis entwined with honeysuckle.

Hayley says how she found choosing plants hard. But, with some advice from friends and from reading books, she opted to include a small apple blossom tree that would add height to the garden, and some ornamental grasses filled in with lupins, dahlias, and salvias – all hardy perennials which she loves.

These are all plants that should, if trimmed at the right times, bloom each year and would be easy for Hayley to maintain. To soften the whole look, Hayley dotted some container gardening ideas around the backyard filled with simple bedding plants, which she can change each season without too much effort. She found some lovely metal hanging planters from Ikea which add a pop of color to the fence. 

Laying a life-like lawn

One of the things the couple couldn't decide on was the grass area. The previous grass never grew very well, so after much deliberation, they opted for an artificial alternative to grass. 

'I really did my homework and found a fake lawn that was amazingly realistic from Carpetright, which was a real surprise,' says Hayley. 

The couple had it professionally fitted, which would ensure it stayed in place and wouldn't get weeds growing through. With the grass in place, the finish line was in sight. 

Adding the finishing touches

Hayley found some festoon lights and had them hung in a zig-zag across the patio to the shed, which ensured the eating area would be illuminated at night. She dotted solar lights in the raised beds and then introduced a large cantilever parasol, as the garden doesn't have much shade on hot sunny days. 

A selection of cushions, outdoor rugs, and her egg chair ensured the garden was ready for the summer ahead. 

'I'm thrilled with the finish as it was the last thing we've done in our home and it's taken almost six years,' she says. 'I'm thrilled that we've created a space that works for all the family, and I can't wait to throw a fabulous garden party and enjoy the fruits of our labor.'

The transformation of this outdoor space is so dramatic, that it’s hard to visualize what this garden looked like before florist Deborah Boston worked her design magic on the area. 

Before moving in, the couple’s Victorian home had been untouched for years, and needed lots of loving attention to turn it into a modern space, with a stunning flower garden fit for a professional florist.

Buying this three-bedroom property in 2013 was a huge lifestyle change for Deborah and her husband Jonathan. They swapped inner city living for a house further up the coast in a more suburban setting. 

‘After years of living in Brighton [on the south coast of the UK], we wanted a complete lifestyle change. We sold our one-bedroom flat and moved out of the city so we could afford a house with a generous garden,’ Deborah explains. 

‘We bought our new home from an elderly gentleman who had lived in the house his whole life, and the property hadn’t been touched since the 1980s. We had our work cut out.’ 

The couple's garden design ideas are an inspiring mix of sustainable, affordable and quirky but contemporary. Which could be described as a dream combination for many of us!

The original garden and how it looked before

While they saved up for their new extension, the couple focused their attention on their unruly garden. Made up of a lawned area, there was also one border filled with sad-looking roses, a few fruit bushes and an overgrown privet hedge. 

They put up a garden room for florist Deborah (@honestwoman.co), which was the first stage of their garden makeover. But then in the spring of 2019, the couple forged ahead with their ambitious renovation project to makeover their kitchen space and the garden, transforming how they lived in their home forever. 

Builders ripped down a Victorian outside toilet and pulled down the scullery. ‘We were left with a gaping hole at the back of the house and the garden was turned into building site. The works were a messy business which made living in our home during the whole build a challenge,’ says Deborah. ‘At least I had my studio to escape to when I needed to work.’

The plan for the makeover

Though unkempt, the garden was in a better state than the rest of the house so the couple decided to keep what existing elements they could. 

Deborah wanted to use cheap garden ideas to transform the space into a modern, country garden where she could harvest flowers. ‘We kept what we could, including the cherry blossom tree in the middle of the lawn, and worked these existing features into the new design.’

It was essential to create a garden full of flowers and plants that Deborah could use in her floristry work. So the couple wanted to widen the garden borders and add flowers that would bloom all year long.

To save money, Deborah was eager to do the entire garden makeover herself. And being a creative person she was more than equal to the task.

Putting in the garden studio

They started by tackling a large sycamore tree and the hedges, calling in the help of a tree surgeon to shape these areas. By far the toughest job was to remove a large mound of earth to make room for an outdoor garden office. 

‘I wanted a space to host flower workshops away from the rest of the house. We found this large studio from Skinner’s Sheds. We built the concrete foundations, and my dad did the electrics for us,’ she explains. ‘We painted the exterior of the studio black to match the rest of the house and widened the borders on both sides.’  

Working with the extension

The new extension was designed to flow seamlessly from the kitchen and onto a living area, opening out onto the garden. This turned their backyard into an outdoor living space where they could entertain and relax. 

‘One key part of our garden design was the large bi-fold style doors running along the back of the house. We wanted doors made from black metal to give the space an industrial look. We found a local window specialist who made the doors in modern-day materials to our exact specifications,’ she says.

Aesthetically, the exterior of the building project had to complement the Victorian building and the newly renovated garden.

Hard landscaping additions

A garden path down one side of the plot uses grey slate so it's in keeping with the period features of the house. Husband Jonathan installed modern decking ideas leading out from the studio and kitchen extension to create two relaxing areas which Deborah uses for her flower workshops that she hosts throughout the summer.  

At the bottom, she added an outdoor sink and potting bench. ‘We made that from the old garden gate, and I repurposed an old Polish washing tub found at an antiques fair. It’s now my outside preparation area,’ she says. ‘Where I can, I use reclaimed materials in my garden like vintage pot plants, buckets, urns and vases.’

Creating a floral feast

Taking inspiration from the Sussex Prairie Garden in the south of England, Deborah filled her garden with grasses to create an all-year-round display. ‘Over the years, I’ve been slowly adding different types of plants. In my first year, I learned how to grow hydrangeas and peonies, then every year since my borders have accumulated more color within them.' 

Last year, the couple increased the size of their flower bed ideas to create a cutting garden. ‘We dug into the lawned area, then mixed in a Sussex manure which is renowned among gardeners for encouraging fabulous flowers growth. Within the border, I added ornamental grasses for movement and structure.’

Clever cost-saving ideas

Deborah's work bench is made from the old back door from the house. ‘I salvaged it and turned it into my table.’ Along the back are shelves full of vases. ‘I’ve been collecting for years, and I hire them out for events and weddings. The main point about my studio is it is a working space, it’s not tidy but it doesn’t matter as it is filled with beautiful things,' said Deborah.

The vintage table and chairs found on Facebook Market Place were painted black to match the garden fence ideas. ‘I love dressing the table for lunch. And when I host my workshops, we finish with drinks at the table. Everything in the garden has to be dual purpose and work hard to earn its place here.’

A garden for work and play

By landscaping with flowers and filling borders with plants of different heights, the space looks natural and lush, with the black fencing creating the perfect backdrop to the floral displays. ‘Every bit of the garden is working hard for me, providing homegrown materials for my work. I even use cuttings from the privet hedge in my arrangements.’ 

Over time, Deborah’s garden has evolved into a place that she works and relaxes in. ‘My garden is my therapy, where I can work, relax with friends, and entertain. Pottering around out here is my favorite pastime.’

Like many home-owners, this couple waited until they had got their house sorted before turning their attention to the outdoor space. Though a fairly uninspiring space, it did have some well-established plants. It had been rented out before the couple moved in. So no one had looked after it for years and it needed some TLC. 

However, you could tell it had been a space someone really cared about at one point and it had lots of potential to be brought back back to life with some plant additions and bold upcycling projects. 

Owner Hannah Pottinger-Banks, 35, is enthusiastic instagrammer @hannahscolourfulworld who is known for her colourful interiors. 'I love colour and it was important that the space reflected that,' she told us.

Read on to discover the tricks and tips behind this bright transformation, then take a look at our garden design ideas for extra inspiration for your plot.

The original garden and how it looked before

Though in desperate need of a personal touch, the bare bones of the garden were a good starting point on which to build. There was a concrete patio, but the slabs were a bit higgledy-piggledy and needed replacing, so better patio ideas were needed. 

The lawn was in good condition but the couple felt tied down by the endless mowing and maintenance it needed.

The plan for the makeover

The couple wanted a space which would reflect their personality and match the style of their interiors. The original budget was just £2,000 so lots of the updates came down to their own talent and creativity. 

They wanted to utilise the top of the garden which gets the sun. Overall it would need to be a space with different areas to chill out. As well as containing enough plants and flowers to make it feel like a proper garden. Ultimately the couple wanted to achieve a space which felt personal to them.

The plants, chosen for their bold colour included: Azalea, small to medium-sized shrubs with funnel shaped flowers and narrow leaves. They will brighten pots and borders from late April. David Austin Rose ‘Lady of shallot’, whose rich orange blooms have a tea-like fragrance and slightly arching stems. And climbing clematis which make great planting companions with roses for a cottage garden-style plant scheme.

Maintenance was a big factor to consider. Whilst wanting flowers and plants to enjoy the couple didn't want to spend all their time tending the garden and not enough time relaxing in it. Therefore the decision was made to replace the lawn with artificial grass in order to cut out the seemingly endless task of maintaining it. 

Looking for a no-mow option? Our alternatives to grass cover everything from fake turf to bark and gravel.

A colourful ribbon curtain backdrop

This is so easy to make and will ripple with colour when hung up along a fence. You will need a wooden or metal pole about 1m in length and different coloured ribbons. Cut the ribbon into 2m lengths. 

Depending on the material of the pole you’ve chosen glue, tie or staple the ribbons to secure them onto the pole. Mount the pole onto the garden wall or fence. 

Working with limited cash? Our budget garden ideas will help you get the most out of every penny.

Filling the space with pots of blooms

Pots are a great choice for adding instant colour. Even more so when they are mounted on a painted pallet. Thanks to their existing slats, pallets are ideal for fixing hanging pots to. 

Hannah painted the slats to tie in with the colourful theme throughout the garden. Containers with hooks are readily available from garden centres or online and are ideal for this purpose.

Upcycling pallets into sofas

The pallets for the seating were gifted from a friend who used them for their wedding. It's always worth asking around friends and family as well as local trades people to see if any scrap materials are going spare. 

You might end up making a find which could save you money. These pallets were sanded, painted and stacked to form simple sofas. Cushions were then added for comfort and colour.

There's so much you can do with pallets – our pallet furniture ideas are packed with inspo.

Styling up an alfresco dining area

The table and chairs were left by the previous owners and were at the house when the couple first moved in. They resisted the instinct to throw them out and get new ones and decided to spruce them up. Take their cue with our guide to how to clean garden furniture.

With a wash down and a lick of paint they look good as new. The strips of colour on the backdoor also tie in with the rest of the look.

Adding unique finishing touches to complete the look

Throughout Hannah's garden you'll find quirky additions. When put together they create a vibrant and unique picture. For example the tropical flamingo ornaments add fun and flair. Elsewhere you'll find painted picture frames, a patterned rug even a hollowed out neon drum used for storage. 

Enjoy another garden makeover: a low-maintenance garden full of clever design ideas

Personal touches like this can be added as time passed, making this a never ending creative journey!

The courtyard of this small terraced house needed a garden makeover to bring it bang up to date and match the extension that had just been completed. The owners had been desperate for the extra space the extension would give them but weren't prepared for the devastating effect it would have on their garden. 

They knew they would have to sacrifice a little outdoor space to accommodate their plans for the house, but expected the garden to survive the building work relatively unscathed, leaving them free to brighten things up with new furniture and pots. However, because of foundation and pipework excavations for the extension work, this wasn’t to be the case, so they needed to come up with a fast and cheap solution to rescue their garden.

Working with a limited budget was going to be tricky but they hit on some genius ideas to help the revamp run smoothly. The result is a stylish contemporary looking courtyard and you would never guess that it was done on a shoestring. Read on to find out how they did it, then check out our garden design ideas for more inspiration. 

THE ORIGINAL GARDEN AND HOW IT LOOKED BEFORE

After a much-needed single-storey extension was added to this small house the building work left the garden looking much the worse for wear. But there was very little money left for the stylish garden makeover the owners dreamed of. The building works had left little more than a pile of rubble in the garden, which became a dumping ground for broken furniture, bins and anything else there wasn't room for in the house. It certainly wasn't a garden to linger in.

THE PLAN FOR THE REDESIGN

The owners had never had a garden before, so designing one from scratch was daunting, especially as they soon discovered they couldn’t afford the additional landscaping costs. 

The revamp needed to create an inviting, low-maintenance courtyard garden that would be great for entertaining and relaxing in the summer. When the doors  were thrown open they wanted the garden to feel like a natural extension of the interior space. 

A light, bright colour palette was needed to make the cramped space feel bigger. They were also desperate for some year-round storage for their bulky bikes and sports equipment, which was currently stored in the house.

Want to know how much to budget for your garden? Head over to our guide on how much does landscaping cost to get the lowdown. 

Using salvaged materials to cut costs

Luckily the couple's builder took pity on them, and not only levelled and prepared the dug-up area outside the doors to the garden, but also produced old paving stones for them to use to create the patio. 

Originally destined for landfill, they weren’t exactly what the owners had in mind, but they were free and allowed them to step outside onto a level surface after months of exposed foundations. In fact, once laid and meticulously power-washed, they were pleasantly surprised by the smooth looking result and this inspired them to hunt for more bargains.

Find out how to use salvage for garden upcycling ideas in our feature and save money on your project too. 

CREATING A DINING SPACE

Entertaining was always going to be the key use of space in the revamped garden, so the couple needed some decent furniture to help create a stylish look. 

The dining table and benches were spotted in the local newspaper’s classified ads section. They cost £300 and needed a good scrub, but were really good quality. The look was completed with a homemade tablecloth featuring a hedgehog motif and matching plain cushions in a cool grey and green colour palette that was picked up elsewhere.

REMODELLING A GARDEN BENCH

Investing in one of the best garden benches was out of the couple's price range, so instead they picked up a secondhand buy on Freecycle. 

Despite needing a slat replacing it was soon transformed with a coat of the best exterior wood paint. Cool neutral grey is the perfect colour choice for an urban garden, working in harmony with the blue planting theme. 

Sourcing from Freecycle left money in the kitty for a neat designer drinks table to sit alongside the bench. Something of an impulse buy, it nevertheless adds a touch of cool styling. The wall lights were another bargain from eBay.

Want to give your outdoor furniture a new look? Our guide to painting garden furniture explains how to get the best results. 

Adding a bamboo screen

The garden still lacked impact, but then inspiration came in the form of a magazine article featuring a simple potted screen. This idea was perfect for defining their patio area and screening the shed from view. 

Wanting to replicate the look, it took them only three weeks to track down some large zinc planters on Gumtree that were perfect for the job. These were planted up with bamboos and the result is a modern and stylish screen effect. 

They also managed to rescue some terracotta pots from a neighbour’s skip, which were planted up with agapanthus to complement the airy bamboos.

Creating much needed storage space 

With half the garden now neatly paved, the remaining concreted area, although a great base for the proposed new shed, was both ugly and no longer level with the pavers. So a sleeper step was added together with a layer of gravel to disguise the concrete, a cheap solution that really makes a feature of the change in levels, and adds visual interest to a small space. 

The arrival of the generous shed, accessed via the house or side alley, also allowed the removal of bikes from inside the house, while the cramped spare room was relieved of piles of surfboards and wetsuits. 

Spare fabric was stapled to the windows of the shed so that their possessions were hidden from view when sitting in the garden. Then the shed was painted the same shade of grey as the garden bench to create a sleek and co-ordinated look.

ADDING ACCESSORIES ON A SHOESTRING

This garden is all about the finishing touches. Most of the accessories were picked up on eBay, Gumtree and Freecycle. But some were homemade too as the owners love a bit of upcycling. 

String was wound around these large pickle jars to make simple hanging candle-holders to add ambience at night time. The perfect finishing touch to this effortlessly stylish revamped courtyard space. 

Head over to our garden lighting ideas for more ways to brighten up your patio space. 

Read more: 

• Low-maintenance garden ideas: keep it simple with these suggestions
• Paving ideas: create a smart new look for your space
• How to plan your garden design: get it right with our advice

A smart garden makeover turned this uninspiring plot into a multi-purpose space for entertaining. After a kitchen extension for the property, which is a mid-terrace house in Berkshire in the UK, the owners decided to turn their attention to the garden. 

Filled with overflowing sheds and random clutter, it was also looking much the worse for wear after a team of builders had spent months tramping through it. Working with such a small space can be tricky to get right, especially when it's essentially a rectangle. But this transformation shows how easy it is to switch up a space as long as you stick to a few basic guiding principles.

Choosing exactly what you want to use the garden for is key. Making entertaining the focal point of this garden with the table taking centre stage is key to its successful revamp. Sleek raised beds lift the planting to eye level for maximum appreciation, while also offering a sense of privacy as the property is overlooked. A stylish summerhouse forms an integral part of the smart redesign, and careful accessorising adds those all-important finishing touches.

Keep reading to find out how it was done, and don't miss our other garden design ideas if you're looking for more inspiration for your outside space. 

The original garden and how it looked before

The small 10 x 4 metre garden was an uninspiring rectangular plot that had somehow ended up with three overflowing sheds and lots of divided up spaces. It suffered from the 'corridor' effect where the garden was simply a route to the shed. 

It was also overlooked by neighbouring houses so there was no sense of privacy. It was such an unwelcoming space that the garden was rarely used. When the house was upgraded with a one-storey kitchen extension the garden became a complete mudbath from the building works, so it made sense to revamp the outside at the same time. This needed careful thought as it's such a small space.

The plan for the redesign

The first thing the owners wanted to do was open up the garden into one whole space instead of it being divided up into several areas, which made it feel cramped. The revamped space needed to work for entertaining and relaxing in, as well as creating an outdoor work space. 

They needed a workshop for their interior design business so planned to turn their shed into a stylish summerhouse where they could both work and relax. 

They wanted to include a large table as the focal point for entertaining family and friends, and for their garden to feel more secluded with the right sort of garden privacy ideas and planting to screen out neighbouring properties overlooking the garden.

Making the most of a small space

As the plot was compact, it was important to include plenty of innovative small garden ideas to ensure the layout works visually. The owners opted for a formal-looking design with a large summerhouse at the end and symmetrical raised beds to frame a central dining area. 

The focal point of the space for entertaining is a weathered wooden table that cost just £80 on eBay and was remodelled to suit the owners' taste. The paint was stripped off, then it was scrubbed with bleach and left out in the sun, with the process repeated several times. Finally it was sealed with clear matt exterior varnish and the legs were painted to match the summerhouse. 

The last big job was laying black limestone slabs between the raised beds. The resulting look complements the space perfectly.

Choosing raised beds for easy planting

Once the extension was finished foundations were dug for the raised beds. These help to define the space and raise the plants to eye level so they can be appreciated more. 

The beds were built from breeze blocks, which were rendered then painted white to help bounce light around the space. They were lined with membrane and gravel added in the bottom for drainage. 

Plants were chosen to fill the raised beds with colour throughout the seasons, and the planting was done by the team at Distinguished Gardens. The paint shade used on the fences was customised using a mix of Urban Slate and Smooth Pebble from Cuprinol’s Garden Shades range. 

Styling up the summerhouse for outdoor living

Several sheds were replaced by one large stylish summerhouse with big windows to throw plenty of light into the interior. This space is used for both relaxing in and working from home. 

In summer the doors are thrown open and this makes the summerhouse feel like a natural extension of the rest of the garden rather than a separate space. 

Carefully chosen furniture and accessories create the feel of an extra living room and the floor is painted for a more polished finish. It's also a great studio space for working from home.

Head over to our garden office ideas for more ways to create a work from home space in your garden. 

Making a relaxing space with cosy accessories

The new summerhouse space is packed with stylish she shed ideas. It's dressed with cosy accessories to create the feeling of an extra room, just as you would use artwork, rugs, throws and cushions inside the house. 

The owners sourced vintage pieces from car boot sales and online shops. It's always good to add a statement piece, and this original hanging chair from the Seventies was an eBay find. It's easy to create a boho style like this with secondhand finds. Don't forget to add plenty of houseplants for that on-trend feel.

Using bold paint to create interest

Think feature walls are just for inside the house? Think again. The summerhouse in this garden features a high-impact black wall that adds a stylish note to the interior, especially when paired with a few carefully chosen accessories. 

Inky black, deep charcoal, graphite grey and midnight blue shades all work well to create a contemporary look with a touch of Scandi style about it. 

Head over to our best exterior wood paint guide for advice on finding the right product for your garden painting project. 

Adding garden lighting for the finishing touches

This garden makeover was principally to create a space for entertaining and relaxing so garden lighting ideas were key to get the most out of it. 

The best outdoor lights lift a garden at night and festoon lighting always adds a magical touch whether you use it to style up a contemporary or more traditional looking garden. 

More ideas for small gardens: 

• How to make a small garden look bigger: tips and tricks to enhance your space
• The best trees for small gardens: great for compact plots
• Small vegetable garden ideas: grow your own in any space

A garden makeover wasn't top of the list when the owners of this 1930s house in Twickenham, south-west London, moved in. In fact the kitchen extension they carried out meant the garden area was actually reduced in size. When they finally turned their attention to revamping their outdoor space the biggest problem they faced was what to do with the under-utilised area at the bottom of the garden. They decided to transform this dead space into a relaxed seating area with a few fun twists to add some personality. But as they hadn't originally budgeted for this they needed to come up with an affordable plan.

Trying to add personality to a small garden that's dominated by a rectangular plot with a lawned area and a garden shed is a familiar problem for many of us. Read on to find out what their unique take was and don't miss our garden design ideas for more ways to transform your own space.

THE ORIGINAL GARDEN AND HOW IT LOOKED BEFORE

The focal point of the garden was the shed and not in a good way. It dominated the space and partially hid an original brick wall which was one of the garden's best features. The patio near the house was cluttered, the fencing looked tired and the planting throughout was limited. The garden looked completely separate from the house design and wasn't used very often as it wasn't a welcoming space. Things had been tweaked here and there, but now the garden needed a complete rethink.

THE PLAN FOR THE REDESIGN

After extending the kitchen and adding bifold doors leading outside to new patio, the plan was to make the entire garden feel like a natural extension of the house. The dead space at the bottom of the garden would be transformed into a relaxed seating area, ideally with a sofa, and the look would co-ordinate with the new patio ideas to pull together a cohesive style. Both would combine to create the outdoor living space ideas the owners were looking for and the rest of the garden would be transformed with some colourful planting. Not having budgeted for any of this, the work had to be as done as cheaply as possible by using as many budget garden ideas as possible. 

RETAINING THE BEST FEATURE

The original brick wall at the rear of the garden had always been a favourite feature and it struck the owners that this area would work really well as the backdrop for an outdoor room. After searching for garden wall ideas, they were inspired to pull an old timber roofing plank out of a skip and recycle it into an attractive shelf for displaying plants. The addition of ornate curved black brackets helped turn it into more of a design feature. The existing trellis topper was looking tired so it was replaced with a sturdier modern option in on-trend grey. Many of the pots were picked up cheaply at car boot sales.

ADDING A SOFA FOR RELAXATION

When it came to choosing the best garden furniture, an outdoor sofa was high on the redesign wish list to create the feeling of an outdoor room. This one was tracked down on eBay but when it turned up the cushions were an unexpected shade of yellow that the owners weren't keen on. So these were replaced with smart grey ones from Ikea that were resized to fit, then layered up with other pretty designs including Moroccan themed textiles. As the last bit of sunshine falls on the sofa on summer evenings it's known as the G&T spot.

CHOOSING NEW DECKING

The couple decided that decking ideas would be the best option to create the flooring for the outdoor room and the owners learned how to build decking themselves to keep down costs. They sourced an affordable decking kit online that looks great with the outdoor sofa and patterned rug to create the feel of a second living room. They opted for a pale shade for the best decking, taking the shed colour as the starting point for colour inspiration to pull the look together.

UPGRADING THE SHED

The existing shed was upgraded with some pretty accessories such as a planted window box and carefully chosen ornaments. Instead of dominating the space it now fits in neatly with the redesign and feels much more in balance as it sits together well with the outdoor room so everything seems much more in proportion. In addition, the pretty planting around it makes it feel more integral to the space.

Want to make more use of your garden shed? Head over to our she shed ideas for clever ways to create a garden hideaway you'll love. 

UPCYLING OLD FURNITURE 

An old enamel-topped cupboard was an unwanted item the owners picked up from outside a neighbour’s house. With a quick paint makeover it was transformed into the perfect potting table with lots of handy cupboard space for planting paraphernalia. Touches of the best exterior wood paint in vibrant pink were added on details such as the drawer fronts to contrast with the smart grey. Once again it adds to the outdoor room theme to bring the whole look together.

There's more ideas on how to use salvage for garden upcycling ideas in our feature. Go check it out for inspiration.

TRANSFORMING TIRED FENCING

Dark grey and black are popular choices for garden fence ideas and this garden shows how they work well in smaller spaces. For a year-round colour pop, a section of trellis was added and painted in a vibrant hue. This works as an accent colour, and is picked up elsewhere such as on the potting table drawers and planting. It's also a great way of disguising boring fences, especially if you add climbers that will scramble over it.

ADDING THE FINISHING TOUCHES

With the main landscaping ideas and garden redesign completed, the couple could finally indulge in some finishing touches for their space. The Moroccan-style design and colours on the textiles, lanterns and tableware switches up the space beautifully for entertaining. Just perfect for alfresco living!

Read more: 

• How to plan your garden design: follow our expert tips 
• Patio gardening ideas: add interest to your space
• Paving ideas: stylish solutions for your space

After renovating their home, a garden makeover was next on the list for the owners of this 1950s house in Hampton, Middlesex. Luckily the garden was quite a big plot so there was plenty of room to think creatively to get the most out of the space. 

The bigger plan was to connect the house to the garden and make it a more sociable space that could be used all year round. The owners wanted to get away from the identikit look of a rectangular space with lawn and borders that they had inherited from the previous owners. Once the plans were agreed, the garden was cleared and work started.

Take a tour to find out how they did it. And don't miss our garden design ideas for more ways to transform your own space.

THE ORIGINAL SPACE AND HOW IT LOOKED BEFORE

The garden was a good size, measuring 30 x 15 metres. It was stocked with mature shrubs and trees, but the couple rarely ventured out past the patio seating area, which meant all that lovely space was going to waste. Beside the trees and shrubs there was no interesting planting to add colour and texture so the garden felt uniform and dull. It was disconnected from the house and they were keen to tap into its potential by creating more of an indoor-outdoor moment.

The owners were complete garden novices though, so wanted to enlist some help with the revamp. Luckily they knew the landscape gardener Simon Fraser and he stepped in to plot out everything on their wish list plus come up with some creative solutions and ideas of his own.

THE PLAN FOR THE REDESIGN

The main design theme on the wish list was to connect the house to the garden and make it a space that could be used all year round through a series of outdoor living space ideas. Different areas for socialising were needed, as well as a garden cabin that was to double up as garden office ideas and extra living space. 

The couple also wanted one of the best hot tubs for relaxing in, and more garden storage ideas. They were keen to introduce some interesting planting too while factoring in that the garden needed to be a low-maintenance space that looked good with minimum effort.

ADDING A MULTI-PURPOSE GARDEN ROOM

Once the plans were agreed, the garden was cleared then the garden cabin was built, which took five days including one day to lay the foundations. This stylish garden room doubles as a living space and home office, and is decorated with green accents to visually link with the garden beyond. It's now in constant use which is a great way of utilising space in the garden. It was from Green Retreats, who sorted out everything including the design, build and electrics.

You can find out about garden office planning permission in our guide. 

CREATING A SPA CORNER

The owners were keen to create a sense of holiday destination about their garden. They had been inspired by the hot tubs they saw on a trip to the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival and decided their own garden space needed one too. They chose a sleek natural wood design from Riviera Hot Tubs and added bamboos to screen the space and create garden privacy ideas. It was definitely the right decision in terms of fitting in with their desire to create a year-round garden as they use it in summer and winter alike – even at Christmas!

MAKING RELAXATION KEY

The inclusion of several different relaxation areas is the key to the laidback vibe in this garden. The sunloungers add a real poolside feel together with the bleached decking ideas. The accent colours tie in with the decoration theme in the interior of the house to add another design link. Oversized lanterns and garden lighting ideas add the finishing touch. Who wouldn't want to staycation here?

INCLUDING AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN

A key element of the redesign were the dedicated outdoor kitchen ideas. Sleek and easy to keep clean, the kitchen area adds a real style statement to the look of the garden. White rendered breeze blocks that match the house were chosen to create a further seamless link between indoors and outdoors. The black garden fence ideas add a stylish contrast to create standout factor in the space. The couple also installed the  best pizza oven, which has been a big hit with family and friends.

Get all the expert advice you'll need on how to design an outdoor kitchen in our guide. 

THE PERFECT SPOT FOR INDOOR-OUTDOOR LIVING

At the opposite side of the patio to the outdoor kitchen is the main entertaining space. With easy access from the house, it creates the perfect indoor-outdoor flow that the couple were after. Neutral paving ideas tie in with the modern colour scheme throughout the rest of the garden, while using large format tiles helps to enhance the feeling of space. A large garden parasol screens the dining area from the adjoining house in summer. 

OPTING FOR MEDITERRANEAN-STYLE PLANTING

The garden needed to be low maintenance so a series of raised beds were added, which are easier to look after than borders. The owners love Mediterranean gardens and chose planting to tie in with the holiday feeling they were trying to create. They wanted to learn how to grow ornamental grasses to add movement and texture, as well as masses of lavender for colour and fragrance. You can find out how to plant a lavender hedge in our guide. 

Thanks to the new landscaping ideas and beautiful planting, this once uninspiring plot is now a stunning space that's packed with low maintenance garden ideas to ensure it's easy to look after. We love it. 

More garden inspiration: 

• Patio gardening ideas: creative solutions for your space
• Modern garden ideas: the latest contemporary looks 
• She shed ideas: create your dream garden hideaway

Tackling the garden makeover of this Victorian terraced house came at the end of 
a two-year house renovation for this couple from York. They left it until last so that they had a place to store all the building materials for the interior makeover. As a result it became an unloved dumping ground and for several years they didn't use it. The couple set aside a budget of £5,000 and sought professional design help to tackle the project, seeing the garden makeover as an investment.

Keep reading to see how they transformed this tiny plot, and for more ideas how to revamp your own outdoor space don’t miss our garden design ideas feature.

THE ORIGINAL GARDEN AND HOW IT LOOKED BEFORE

The garden measures just 7.60m x 4.60 metres and wasn't used by the owners except as a dumping ground. It felt very uninviting, with damaged crazy paving and scrappy planting. It lacked privacy and felt exposed as it was overlooked by neighbours. The only saving grace was the original red-brick Victorian walls and a tall hedge at the bottom that helped to partially screen out a neighbouring house.

THE PLAN FOR THE REDESIGN

The owners wanted to create an inviting space where they would be able to relax. The garden’s dimensions meant that the layout had to be planned meticulously using small garden ideas to utilise the limited space in the best way possible. 

They decided to replace outdated features such as the crazy paving and uninspiring beds with sleek hard landscaping ideas and a lush tropical garden ideas. In addition they wanted to create the feel of an outdoor room with designated spaces for eating and relaxing. At the far end of the garden the snug little seating zone is gorgeous in the evening for sitting out by the glow of the fire pit. 

There's more inspiration for creating your dream seating area in our outdoor living space ideas feature. 

GETTING THE DIFFERENT ZONES RIGHT

After working out the budget, which included all the materials plus a contingency for plants, the owners approached Harry and David Rich of Rich Landscapes who understood immediately what was wanted. The garden needed to be zoned with separate areas for outdoor dining ideas and entertaining, plus there was a need for more garden privacy ideas. A sleek black slatted panel adds an on-trend feel to the old wall and is a nice mix of modern and traditional. 

Harry and David came up with some lush planting ideas including tree ferns to suit the tropical brief and decided to create separate zoned areas in the garden. Check out our advice on how to grow ferns to add lush greenery to your space year round. 

GETTING THE HARD LANDSCAPING RIGHT

‘Hard landscaping shouldn’t do much talking – it should be in the background to allow the plants to make the statement,’ says the garden's designer David. Cool cream pavers, pale decking ideas and smart trellis toppers on the brick walls to add privacy bring the new look together seamlessly, while allowing the tree ferns and the rest of the planting to take centre stage. A team of eight completed the entire transformation in just two days.

ADDING THE RIGHT PLANTING COMBINATION

The shapely tree ferns introduce a key focal point, plus add height, privacy and dappled shade to the garden. They’re also hardy, low-maintenance and tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions. Neat beds set in amongst the pavers is a clever way to introduce modern paving ideas. An easy and low-maintenance way to fill these new beds was to plant airy ornamental grasses for movement and texture. Head over to our guide on how to grow ornamental grasses if you'd like to introduce them into your outdoor space. 

THE IMPORTANT FINISHING TOUCHES

The owners can step from their kitchen straight into this timber-decked dining area to have their breakfast in the sun. Keeping the original Victorian garden wall ideas was a must. The red bricks add a natural warmth and wild flowers self-set in the loose pointing. They flower at different times of the year, which is always a lovely surprise when they come into bloom and the owners can enjoy them over their morning coffee.

More garden inspiration: 

• Courtyard garden ideas: creative solutions for compact spaces 
• Modern garden ideas: the latest contemporary looks 
• How to make a small garden look bigger: cheat your way to more space

This garden makeover was a real challenge, as the owners weren't quite sure where to begin. When they bought a 300-year-old farmhouse in Somerset they inherited an overgrown garden that was swamped with ivy. But slowly they began to see how the garden’s different zones and levels could be reconfigured to work in a much better way.

Top of their wish list was a lovely seating area where they could relax. They were also keen to create a separate place for eating outside, perhaps utilising the area closest to the house that had nothing really going on. They wanted to keep the established trees and shrubs, and both the structure and look of the old stone walls. The ivy that covered the walls was completely out of control though, so they knew that had to be tackled first together with dealing with other overgrown shrubs to let more light in and make the garden feel less congested. 

Take a tour to find out how they did it. And don't miss our garden design ideas for more ways to transform your own space.

THE ORIGINAL GARDEN

The drab and overgrown plot was swamped with ivy and shrubs running wild. There was no cohesive planting theme or style. The crowded space was dominated by a garden path and steps up to the gate. The area near the house wasn't used and felt abandoned as leaves and other garden debris tended to accumulate there. The owners wanted to keep the original brick walls and an old apple tree, as well as some of the shrubs. As the garden was a compact space they needed to introduce some clever ideas to really get the most out of it. 

THE PLAN FOR THE REDESIGN

With a combination of clever ideas the owners were keen to transform the look of the garden using budget garden ideas. Incorporating sloping garden ideas was key to utilising the split-level aspect too. 

The plan was to create different sections in the garden to make it feel much larger and  enhance separate features. The owners wanted to be able to spend as much time outside as possible, enjoying alfresco meals and entertaining friends. They wanted plenty of interesting spots, with different places to eat and chill out. By incorporating new lighting and heating ideas they would be able to spend longer in the garden in the evening too. Pretty cottage garden ideas really appealed too, and the plan was to add bee friendly plants to attract lots of pollinators. 

ADDING DIY OUTDOOR SOFAS

The outdoor sofas were designed and built by the owners themselves, as the ones they liked were all way beyond their budget. The wooden bench seats are designed to fit perfectly into the corner to maximise space, and were sanded then protected with deck oil. The ivy was removed from the lovely old brickwork to open up the space and prevent wet leaves dropping onto the seating area. A selection of the best patio heaters and garden lighting ideas such as festoon lighting and lanterns were added to extend evenings in the garden until late.

CREATING A DINING AREA

Keen to include outdoor dining ideas in their new space, the owners created a separate dining area on the paved area on the lower level of the garden, which is near the house and had previously been unused. Luckily the garden table and chairs from their previous home fitted nicely into the space, which kept down costs. This is where they gather for barbecues too. Pretty cobbles and masses of lavender add to the country garden feel, as does the rustic French-style wrought iron gate. 

Find out how to plan a lavender hedge in your own garden in our expert guide. 

OPTING FOR COTTAGE GARDEN PLANTING

Some of the mature shrubs and an old apple tree were kept as they worked well in the reimagined space. A pink climbing rose that was being overwhelmed by ivy was rescued, as well as a small fig tree. The new planting features a selection of the best cottage garden plants, which spill over borders to soften the sharp lines of the landscaping ideas. 

Drifts of lavender and pots of daisies give the planting a soft, colourful vibe throughout the summer months. Containers planted up with scented bee-friendly plants are positioned close to seating areas for maximum impact. Slate chippings were used to suppress weeds, keep moisture in and add an interesting textural element between the plants.

There's lots more planting ideas for your own space in our guide to garden borders. 

INTRODUCING A PERSONALISED TOUCH

This wooden trolley was used for drinks at the owners' wedding reception and they were keen to include it in the redesign. It was a bargain find at the local recycling centre and has a vintage rustic feel that works well in the new garden. Styled up with plenty of plants it adds to the cottage gardens theme. Decorative touches were added such as a large glass jar filled with a strand of pretty copper lights to add a pretty glow that highlights the trolley at dusk. 

Find more ways on how to use salvage for garden upcycling ideas in our feature. 

TAKING INDOOR STYLE OUTSIDE

Once the structure of the garden was finished, the owners went to work on the details and introduced outdoor living space ideas. Pretty fabric seat pads were made for the benches and a wooden coffee table that was unearthed in the garden was given the upcycling treatment. For clever garden mirror ideas, the owners turned an old window frame into a decorative mirror, adding a stylish touch to the brick wall and helping to bounce light around. Combined with the different levels and zones in the garden these are all great ideas to try if you want to find out how to make a small garden look bigger. 

Read more: 

• How to plan your garden design: follow our expert guide 
• Patio gardening ideas: make the most of your space 
• Paving ideas: create a stylish area you'll love

Dreaming of a modern cottage garden, the owners of this Dorset property turned their attention to the outside space after six years spent renovating the interior. As part of the renovation work, they had added a kitchen extension with bi-fold doors that opened out to a spacious patio area. But they were unsure what to do with the rest of the garden. 

After some expert design advice, they decided to create a split-level design with steps from the patio up to a separate area for relaxing. The garden now combines the best of modern design with a nod here and there to the traditional. Keep reading to see how this once unpromising rectangle of lawn was transformed into a stunning modern cottage garden, then head over to our garden design ideas for more brilliant ways to transform your own outdoor space. 

The plan for the redesign

The original garden was a dull rectangle that was dominated by a large apple tree, which took up lots of space and cast shade over everything so little grew. It had a sloping incline that went up towards the back of the garden and was mainly laid to lawn. Mike Reeves of Greenman Services, advised the couple to introduce the new  split-level design. 

The owners knew they wanted to introduce lots of cottage garden ideas, but they also wanted the garden to be low-maintenance and to create the feel of a private space. They favoured a predominantly white planting scheme as they loved the simplicity this look offers. By cleverly splitting the garden into different areas this creates the impression that the plot is much larger than it is. This layout gives the garden character and divides it naturally into areas for eating, sitting and relaxing. The middle part of the garden is laid to lawn, with steamer chairs for lounging in the sun. 

Redesigning the patio dining area 

The patio feels enclosed and sheltered, thanks to the retaining walls surrounding the next level of the garden. To connect the two spaces and add a seamless indoor-outdoor moment, one of the best paving ideas is to use the same flooring inside and outside, so the owners opted for a smart flagstone tile. The patio feels like a natural extension of the home and the owners use it as an extra room. The smart furniture and oversized planters adds to the contemporary cottage garden ideas. 

Opting for cottage garden plants

Borders packed with the best cottage garden plants make the garden look lush and established. Fully planted beds also stop weeds taking hold. Ferns, evergreens and annuals like sweetpeas, cosmos daisies and snapdragons fill the garden with structure and form to create a real cottage garden look. Sweetpeas look particularly good scrambling up an obelisk as well as drenching the air with scent. The owners stuck to a cool all-white palette as far as possible. You'll find lots more planting ideas in our guide to garden borders.

Making the cottage garden planting work

The garden is zoned into distinct areas. Climber-clad trellis fencing screens the garage and is covered with dainty clematis flowers, which are a hardy climber that's great for softening fences and other structures. Adding a rendered wall as part of the garden redesign provides privacy as well as a modern feel. Eventually it will be mostly covered by clematis and jasmine. It’s painted in Farrow & Ball’s Bone, a good match to coordinate with the patio paving that doesn’t compete with the greenery. Head over to our garden wall ideas for more inspiration for your garden boundaries. 

Creating a curved pathway 

Stepping-stone slabs in a cool neutral tone interspersed with gravel chippings is a great garden path idea for creating an informal and low-maintenance route through the garden, while the lush planting spills over to soften the lines. Stylish agapanthus add height and structure and are a great choice if you're looking for bee friendly plants in a cottage garden.

Mixing new and old

The garden includes some very individual touches to add personality. Eye-catching modern planters are dotted around throughout the space, filled with white powder puffs of agapanthus or clipped domes of evergreen foliage for a smart and modern look. An old stepladder, bought for a few pounds at a local market, has been turned into an eye-catching vertical plant stand. But what makes this garden so special is the mix of modern and traditional ideas. 

Read more: 

• Patio ideas: create your perfect space 
• How to plan your garden design: follow our expert tips 
• Landscaping ideas: stylish solutions for your space

A garden makeover can often get forgotten when you first move into a house in the rush to fine tune the interior. This is what happened with this property as the owners worked hard on transforming the interior. They added a stylish open-plan kitchen-diner but it was depressing to look out of the new patio doors on to their small and uninspiring outdoor space. Once they got going on transforming it with a few achievable tweaks they managed to sort the whole thing out themselves on a very reasonable budget. 

Read on to find out how they did it then take a look at our garden design ideas for more ways to transform your own space.

The original garden and how it looked before

This tired space was long overdue a makeover. The side return was very visible from the new kitchen-diner and was an awkward space that felt really uninspiring, with discoloured paving slabs and an ugly 1970s patterned concrete wall. It ended up being an unused and unloved dumping ground for garden clutter that was unavoidable whichever way you looked. The back garden had some nice mature shrubs, which they wanted to keep and work into the new design, but not much else.

The plan for the redesign

The owners wanted to create a great space for socialising, so a great seating area was a must. As keen campers, they liked cooking and sitting around an open fire, so loved the idea of a permanent fire pit idea in the garden. The ugly concrete wall had to stay so it was covered with some sleek fencing made from roofing battens that were painted in on-trend black, which added a nice visual link with the black feature wall in the living room for a seamless indoor-outdoor living moment. A new path was added to improve access and contemporary planting together with some carefully chosen accessories helped to switch up the whole look.

Adding the key elements for socialising

Another indoor-outdoor link was the L-shaped bench seating that takes centre stage in their sociable garden, as well as adding crucial extra storage space. This new garden bench matched an L-shaped bench in the dining area indoors, and both were made by the owners which helped keep the budget down.The pretty cushions and throws can be stowed away when not in use to keep things tidy. They found a very affordable steel fire bowl on Amazon, then built a brick surround themselves. Pretty festoon lights and bulb sets hung from the stunning camellia tree add an ambient mood for alfresco get-togethers in the evening.

Want to have a go at making a DIY fire pit too? Head over to our guide on how to build a fire pit for our step-by-step instructions. 

Designing a bespoke detail

Sleek log storage was added using the same paint that was chosen for the fence. This added continuity and kept the colour palette to a minimum, something that's a great option when considering small garden ideas to avoid things looking too busy. The owners had always wanted a log pile, so they built one themselves. As well as looking good it's perfect for storing the wood for the fire pit.

Transforming a tired concrete wall

The 70s style concrete wall was clad with roofing battens that were painted a dark colour to create impact and make the space feel more intimate. The clever garden fence ideas were further enhanced with pretty wall-mounted plant racks painted in the same colour. A path was needed for access to the side gate. The owners liked the idea of a winding design with a seaside-inspired boardwalk-style path, which was built using decking planks set in bleached white cobbles. You'll find more creative solutions for getting from A to B in our garden path ideas feature. 

Introducing modern planting

Evergreen ferns and cool succulents potted up in simple containers adds a very modern look to the planting. You can find out how to grow succulents, both indoors and out, in our guide. Every last little bit of space was utilised. Some herb planters were created from offcuts of guttering that was planted up with thyme and hug over the back of the garden bench. Some of the original shrubs were kept to add structure and interest to the scheme.

Like what you've seen? Head over to our feature on how to plan your garden design for brilliant advice on creating your own dream space.

More inspiration: 

• Budget garden ideas: transform your space for less 
• The best fire pits: perfect for evenings alfresco 
• Garden lighting ideas: make the most of your garden after dark

A redesigned garden usually means extending your living space as a priority especially now when we’re all spending much more time at home. When the owners of this garden decided to revamp the uninspiring space they inherited when they moved in, high on their list of must-haves was an outdoor living area where they could stay outside late into the evening socialising with friends. Low-maintenance planting was also important to them as well as a relaxing water feature to add a laidback vibe. The result of their makeover is the dream garden they hoped for.

Keep reading to find out how this stunning garden transformation was achieved, then head over to our garden design ideas for more ways to update your own space.

The original garden and how it looked before

The urban garden was a drab and uninspiring space featuring a mossy lawn edged with overgrown shrubs and not much else. Most of it was overshadowed by trees, which meant that it was gloomy and little grew in it. But it was quite spacious for a town garden so presented the ideal opportunity for a complete garden overhaul.

The plan for the redesign

The owners wanted to strip the whole garden back and start from scratch to turn it into a multifunctional extra living space. Their main priority was to spend as much time outside as possible, but they also wanted to incorporate plenty of low-maintenance garden ideas. Landscaping company Belsize Gardens removed most of the trees to let in some light. Designer Miles Raybould helped them plan a paved garden, broken up with clusters of plants that would add height and texture but require little attention. Things were kept simple, focusing on interesting foliage and white flowers, and hydrangeas form the backbone of the planting scheme.

The owners wanted to be able to sit outdoors for as long as possible in the evening when they have friends round too. The seating area has comfortable teak loungers and a rustic bench that doubles as log storage for the fire pit. Ivy will quickly cover the surrounding fences, turning this into a calm, green retreat that feels secluded, crucial in an urban garden. 

Looking for ideas for your own fences? Our garden fence ideas feature has plenty of options.

Adding privacy with a living wall

Greening up boundaries is a real trend at the moment. The new living wall in the garden makes a soft, green backdrop for the dining area and helps to screen the area too. The owners saw the idea online and thought it looked really attractive and fabulous for creating privacy. Lush and verdant ferns, grasses and periwinkles flourish here, and any gaps that appear are easy to fill with annuals. Head over to our guide to creating a living wall for top tips on how to design one in your garden. 

Creating an alfresco cooking area

The homeowners are serious foodies, so incorporating some of the latest outdoor kitchen ideas into their new space was high on their wishlist. The built-in structure not only holds the barbecue itself but also has a surface for preparing food. There are built-in shelves that provide extra storage for an array of outdoor necessities including chunky logs for their outdoor fire pit. The family opted for metal furniture as it's weatherproof and can be left outside all year round.

Introducing a clever planting scheme 

In a mostly green garden, low-effort ornamental grasses help to create contrast with leafier plants. They bring height, texture and movement to the space, and their pretty seed heads add extra softness to the hard landscaping. Hydrangeas are tough, low-maintenance and look right in both urban and rural gardens. 

Adding a relaxing water feature

Introducing some water feature ideas was important for the owners as they wanted to create a relaxing vibe. They opted for a Corten steel design that just looks better and better as it weathers in. Corten steel is perfect for modern garden ideas and contemporary planting schemes and as the orange hue looks stunning as a backdrop for greenery.

Creating an outdoor room

Weathered brick walls and an old cherry tree were integrated into the design, instantly lending the garden an established feel. The garden studio extends the couple’s living area, as it’s furnished with comfortable seating and a wine fridge. A central water feature ties the layout together. Wall toppers in slatted wood add height for privacy and update the old brick for a more modern look. 

Like what you've seen? Head over to our feature on how to plan your garden design for brilliant advice on creating your own dream space. 

More garden design advice: 

• How to design an outdoor kitchen
• Paving ideas: inspiration for your garden landscaping
• Garden office ideas: create an outdoor room in the garden 

When it comes to garden design, top of everyone's wishlist is a cohesive space for entertaining and relaxing with a bright and contemporary feel. So when the owners of this garden decided to revamp their space, high on their list of must-haves was separate patio areas for eating and entertaining, all with a sleek high end look that would completely transform their outdoor living space. Add a sophisticated planting scheme that looks fab yet is actually really low maintenance and an ambient lighting scheme to enhance everything at night, and the result of their makeover is a dream garden.

Keep reading to find out how this garden previously looked and how the stunning garden transformation was achieved, then head over to our garden design ideas for more ways to update your own space.

The original garden and how it used to look

The original garden was small, overlooked and dominated by a sparse lawn and a mish-mash of hard landscaping materials. L-shaped in layout, it faces north east, so only the top of the raised area gets any sun, while the rest of it was always in shade or received very little light. The garden was always damp and waterlogged, especially near the house, and the owners felt they weren't making the most of the available space. 

The plan for the redesign

The couple's main priority was to make the garden more user friendly so they could enjoy spending more time outside. They wanted to be able to move around between different spaces at different times of the day, so one area for breakfast, another for lounging, and a third for evening entertaining. Struggling to see how they could transform the space into something that worked better for them, they called on Andy Kirman of Kirman Design to help them. Andy came up with a plan that would feature linear planting beds, zoned areas, a lighting scheme and light-coloured hard landscaping materials that would form the basis of the redesigned space. 

Head over to our feature on how to plan your garden design for brilliant advice on creating your dream space. 

Linking indoors and out in the new garden layout

The new garden now feels like a much more natural extension of the house, blending indoors with out. Previously as you stepped outside there had been no element of surprise with the old garden and all was revealed in one glance. Instead, the owners wanted to create an intimate feel by zoning the garden into defined areas that were revealed bit by bit. Now, as you step through the bi-fold doors into the garden there is a lower paved area with seating. 

Garden designer Andy tackled the very wet section of the garden near the house by adding lots of drainage and building raised beds to resolve the damp problem. A new planting bed helps bring greenery closer to the house and creates added interest. This lower patio area connects to the steps and pathway that leads to the upper garden and is enclosed on two sides by a rendered retaining wall. 

The owners also wanted to keep the mature Acer tree which adds an elegant sculptural touch, and they also needed easy access to the seating areas, garage and gate. But they agreed the central lawn had to go if they wanted the new look to be softened by incorporating more beds featuring deep planting. 

The new landscaping design

The smooth and sleek hard landscaping ideas used in this garden are defined by a simple combination of paving ideas, walls and pathways. Light coloured porcelain paving and rendered walling is partnered with a light buff gravel to form a cool and contemporary looking neutral backdrop for the planting. These pale colours reflect light, so work well in a shady garden. At the same time this adds a contemporary feel. Low height retaining walls and linear planting beds throughout are rendered and also capped with porcelain, and help to pull the look together. 

Creating space for entertaining areas

A raised patio away from the house creates a secluded area for entertaining with plenty of space for a table and chairs. Surrounded by mature trees and shrubs plus a contemporary planting bed, this is a great space for entertaining that captures the sun in the evening. The planting encloses the space and screens the garden beyond so helps to create an intimate feel. This style of zoning, which utilises separate areas helps a garden feel much larger. You'll find more garden privacy ideas like this in our feature. 

Redesigning the layout of the garden has meant there is also space for a separate corner patio featuring a larger paved area with more space for seating. This area is more focussed on lounging and the couple love to use it for eating breakfast outdoors at the weekend, with a comfy corner sofa proving plenty of room for relaxing. 

Contemporary planting ideas

The planting was a major element of Andy’s new design. The owners wanted a relatively low-maintenance scheme that felt contemporary and added colour and year-round interest. The new planting beds are a manageable way of introducing densely planted perennials, instead of borders that can feel daunting. 

In spring, the planting colours are light and bright with the focus on whites and pastel tones such as pale pink and mauve. As the season moves on, hotter more colourful displays take centre stage with yellow achillea and ornamental grasses. Shady areas are rich and lush with evergreens such as ferns and hellebores. The use of lighter materials and plants lifts the space, brightening the garden and at the same time the interior of the house. Drifts of colour and texture are provided by white astilbe, verbena bonariensis and echinacea.

Head over to our guide to garden borders for top tips on planning your planting scheme. 

Using lighting to create atmosphere

Garden lighting ideas are key to extending the use of the garden and making it a more user friendly space, so Andy made sure it formed an integral part of the new garden scheme. At night, an ambient lighting scheme can be used to uplight the planting and create interesting silhouettes and shadow play. This creates a magical place for entertaining where everyone will want to linger. Integral low-level lighting can also be used to illuminate paths to guide the way to the end of the garden if you want to create a new space you can use at night. Just add a few strategically placed lanterns for the finishing touch. The couple are thrilled with the results of their garden makeover and love the contemporary entertaining space they have successfully created. 

Read more: 

• Garden wall ideas: add interest to your garden boundaries 
• Patio ideas: design your perfect entertaining space
• The best outdoor lights for every budget