Who doesn’t want to come home to a peaceful, contemplative and relaxing garden? Big or small, the space in your garden can be elevated through a series of simply achievable tricks, and creating different zones in your garden is one of the biggest tricks.
The creation of separate and neatly defined garden areas within one bigger garden is known as lawn or garden edging. As well as by tidying up the edges of your garden plants and bushes, garden border edging can be developed through strips of different materials.
I personally love lawn edges as they spare me the trouble of hyper-regular trimming (you can see examples here.) Notwithstanding, not all garden zones will need them. Some may simply rely on strategically positioned pots and plants to create beautiful separate spaces.
No matter what you have in mind, I am a firm believer that the garden is in no way less important than any other room in the house, and everyone should be able to enjoy their little oasis , and create garden upgrades without working too hard or breaking the bank.
For this reason, I would like to share with you five important tips for the perfect garden zoning!
Tip Number 1: Think Comfort
When it comes to home design, aesthetics are important. At the same time, though, functionality and comfort should also play a role.
Depending on where you live and the current season, you may end up spending more time in the garden than most do in their living room! On that note, if you live in a warmer part of the country, you might want to enrich your outside area with some extra nature. Take a look at my article How To Build A Wildlife Pond for practical ideas
Focus on creating a dining area, or place a few comfy chairs around a coffee table. The positioning of this zone is crucial: for example, you should focus on a spot close to the edges that are fairly accessible, away from the main road or driveway, and not in the way of something else. This is to avoid unnecessary back-and-forth walking that might potentially disrupt the peace.
There is a broad variety of patio sets for all weather and budgets. Pair that with some creativity and the sky is the limit!
Tip Number 2: Create a Safe Heaven
Whether or not you have children or pets, a concealed area within your garden is often a requirement. Besides safety, you want to make sure you also get the privacy that you need as – remember – the garden is really just another room in your house! Nobody likes strangers lurking in their home from the sidewalk.
Depending on your personal taste, your needs and your house design, there are several materials you can rely on. You might want to add a screen, a plastic partition or use the good ol’pallets.
Do you have a green thumb? Using naturally leafy plants to create a private area also works wonders. In case you are planning on using an Asia-style room divider, make sure it’s firmly attached to the floor and waterproof!
Tip Number 3: Let the Children Play
Outside play areas are either the dream or the sweetest memory of most people’s childhoods.
Depending on the size of your garden, it is a good idea to let the kids play in a zone that is slightly tucked away from the lounge area (from where you can still see them, of course.)
Sandpits, bikes and old toys can all be stored outside. Ideally, your little ones should feel free to get a little messy!
Tip Number 4: Get Your Zen On!
We have talked about garden zones that are ideal for socializing, dining, and even playing. But what about creating an area for peace and quiet where you can kick back and relax with a nice book and a cup of tea?
This atmosphere can easily be achieved by installing hammocks and setting up a couple of large sitting cushions or a recliner chair. You may even place a carpet if the area is placed underneath some kind of cover and sheltered from the rain.
Tip Number 5: Maximise Your Garden Space by Decluttering
If you have read this far, it is possible that you may be wondering how your average to small-sized garden can be divided into so many areas.
First of all, don’t panic! You may not need to apply all of my five tips after all. Just choose the ones that most resonate with your vision, and go for it.
You will also be surprised by how some regular decluttering can potentially be the game-changer your garden needs. By eliminating (donating, recycling) what doesn’t spark joy, you will get so much more space in return – space that can now be filled with all the things relaxing and joyful.
If you are not ready to say goodbye to a few items you don’t often use, my advice is to get neutrally coloured large bins to store them in and tuck them out of sight.
I hope you found my tips helpful! With little time and effort, you too can create a garden to love and relax in!
