The best gardens don’t just happen, they require careful planning and thought. Sometimes it can be a little daunting and difficult to know where to start, but here you’ll find all the help and inspiration you need.

Before you put pen to paper, you need to decide how you are going to use your space. Do you need a play area for the kids? Or will you be entertaining and in need of a dining area? Whatever you want, you need to develop your design around how you intend to use it.

Another good place to start is with a theme. There are many styles to choose from, and of course a number of colours and shapes to bring out the character in your garden. There are several ideas over the following pages, but also look through plenty of magazines, watch TV shows and browse the web to get your inspiration. However, thought should also be given to the style of your home and whether or not the design of the garden will work with it.

You must also think about how much time you can devote to the garden’s upkeep. Sometimes the look you want may not be the most practical. Something that is easy to maintain will suit those with a busy lifestyle. Mowing strips, mulching and irrigation systems are great examples of some of the timesaving tactics which can be employed to reduce the workload without having to compromise on a great looking garden.

Things to consider before you start...

What shape and size is your garden?
Your choice of design should be tailored to your garden’s shape. Tall trees and plants can crowd small gardens, whereas small features and shrubs can become lost in larger spaces.

Where does the sunlight fall?
Before you plan your garden, work out where the sun falls. For example, don’t block the sun reaching areas where it’s needed, and if you’re planning a seating area, do you prefer it in shade or sunshine? Similarly, you should also consider whether you need to protect the garden from high winds.

Have you thought about the view?
The view from your house into the garden is important, but what about the reverse? Is there anything you’d like to make a feature of, or shield, whilst you are standing in your garden facing the house?

Where is your water?
Do you have any existing water features you’d like to keep or a new one to install? Think about how you will design around them or where they would be best suited. Also consider the placement of garden taps.

Are there plants you want to keep?
If you have established plants or trees that you want to keep or make a feature of, plan your design around them. Planning your garden need not be from scratch, but think about whether they will work with the new design.

Do you require storage?
Do you need to store away your garden furniture or a barbeque during the winter, or do you require secure storage for leisure equipment or children’s toys?