As the season for BBQs and alfresco breakfasts creeps closer, our attention has already started turning to our outdoor spaces – especially how we blur the boundaries between indoors and out.
But, with homeowners wondering where to begin and on the lookout for the most up-to-date garden ideas, St. Modwen Homes shares how to transform blank canvases (albeit green ones) to a crucial part of any new development home.
Out-terior design
85% of prospective property buyers say that a garden is top of their house hunting wish list. However, many new homeowners are yet to get their fingers green, so finding a way of maximising your garden with minimum effort is key.
Luckily for those who are unfamiliar with DIY and gardening, choosing a low maintenance outdoor space naturally lends itself to inside-out living. Place furniture such as outdoor sofas and chairs on patios, throw down a woven outdoor rug, and add a fire pit to upgrade your garden into an inviting space to relax – complete with all the comforts of the interior.
Top Tip: No garden furniture? No problem! Grab a picnic blanket and outdoor pillows for a quick way to transform your garden space into a relaxing slice of calm.
Plant Power
Flowers are known to have a long term positive effective on your mood, and adding flowers to your garden can help with relaxation, creating more enjoyment in outdoor spaces. With Google searches such as ‘easy things to grow in a garden’ up 50%, it seems the nation is keen to get growing and access some flower-power in 2023.
Bulbs are an easy and fuss-free way to add colour to your garden. These low maintenance plants are the equivalent of ‘fit and forget’ in the garden world! Plant in early spring for bright summer flowers, or autumn to get those cheery first blooms of spring. Seeing the colours from your kitchen window is sure to bring a smile to your face, and you can enjoy them even more when you’re sat outside sipping a cold drink on a hot day.
If you’re keen to try your hand at growing some food, herbs are the perfect place to start. Beginner friendly herbs include rosemary, basil, and mint. Not only are they delicious in meals, but the scents will make your garden smell amazing!
Top tip: Plant herbs in strategic pots just a few steps from the kitchen so you can quickly nip out, snip off some leaves, and get cooking with your home-grown produce.
Light it up
Lights are an effective way to create an inviting space for guests, and the garden is no exception. The right lighting scheme is a vital part of any garden design, especially as the nights start to stretch out, creating a relaxing ambience for all to enjoy. Try adding ‘waterproof solar garden lights’ (up 100% on Google) for rain-proof radiance.
Alternatively, outdoor string lights are super versatile and ideal for adding that extra glow to your garden. ‘Wire string lights’ are set to be a hit this year, with searches up 50% on Google - loop them from your back gate into your seating area to direct your guests, or hang them along a fence to brighten up a night under the stars.
Top Tip: Keep neutral outdoor lights in warm or cool white up all year – they'll give friendly festive light in the winter and a warm glow on summer evenings.
So, your garden may be at the back of your house, but it should not be at the back of your mind. See your garden as an extension of your home, a ‘fifth room’ to make inside-out living part of your everyday routine. In no time you will start bringing family dinners, games, and your own personal downtime out into your outdoor space, ready to enjoy and unwind in nature.
