Introduction
Designing a garden should be an exciting and wholesome activity. However, it is not unheard of to make mistakes along the way! In this post we examine the top 6 garden design mistakes and provide some practical tips on how to avoid them. By learning from these common pitfalls, you can create a well-planned and harmonious outdoor space that will bring joy and beauty for years to come.
Garden Design Mistake #1 – Skipping the Planning Stage
It’s all too common to skip the planning stage in garden design. Without an overall vision, your garden will end up feeling disjointed and lacklustre. To rectify this, allocate sufficient time to develop a garden plan that carefully considers the layout, features, and desired atmosphere. Reflect on important factors such as sun exposure, soil type, and the intended purpose of the garden. By making the effort to create a well-thought-out plan, you’ll be on your way to designing a cohesive and visually appealing outdoor space.
Garden Design Mistake #2 – Starting with the Plants
While it is tempting to jump straight into selecting plants, this can lead to a design that lacks coherence and balance. Instead, begin by defining the structural elements of your garden, such as paths, seating areas, and focal points. Once these elements are in place, you can choose plants that complement and enhance the overall design. Remember to consider factors such as height, colour palette, and texture when selecting plants to create a harmonious and visually pleasing garden.
Garden Design Mistake #3 – Lack of Unity
Another common mistake is a lack of unity in garden design. This can occur when various elements, such as plants, materials, and styles, do not work together cohesively. To avoid this, strive for a unified theme or style throughout your garden. Consider elements such as colour schemes, plant choices, and materials to create a sense of harmony. By ensuring that each element complements the others, you can create a visually pleasing and cohesive garden design.
Garden Design Mistake #4 – Too Much Empty Space
Having too much empty space in a garden can make it feel unfinished and lacklustre. It is essential to strike a balance between open areas and plant-filled spaces. Utilise features such as pathways, seating areas, or decorative elements to create visual interest and fill empty spaces. Consider incorporating elements of different heights and textures to add depth and dimension to your garden design. By filling empty spaces purposefully, you can create a visually dynamic and inviting outdoor space.
Garden Design Mistake #5 – Lack of Narrative
Gardens should be more than static spaces; they should tell a story and evoke emotions. A common mistake is designing a garden that lacks a sense of journey or drama. To avoid this, create a flow within your garden, guiding visitors through different areas and experiences. Utilize features such as winding paths, archways, or seating nooks to create suspense and anticipation. Incorporate elements that stimulate the senses, such as fragrant flowers or the sound of running water, to add a sense of drama and intrigue to your garden design.
Garden Design Mistake #6 – Not Involving a Garden Designer
Being armed with the information in points 1-5 should help when beginning your garden renovation project. However, it is tricky to visualise a 3D space and it’s also very difficult to know what type of thing is possible with your budget. So although the pointers above will put you in the right direction, it is still a good idea to enlist a professional to help guide you and to collaborate with as you embark on the process of realising your dream garden.
Conclusion
Avoiding common garden design mistakes is crucial in creating a beautiful and harmonious outdoor space. By having a clear overall plan, starting with the structural elements, ensuring unity, utilising space effectively, and creating a sense of journey or drama, we can design a garden that is both visually appealing and functional. Remember, a well-designed garden is a place of solace, enjoyment, and connection with nature. So take the time to plan and implement your design carefully, and you will be rewarded with a garden that brings beauty and joy for years to come. We love collaborating with our clients to bring their dream gardens to life - start your journey with us today!
