Designing an Ideal Garden and Deck Area for Relaxing and Entertaining
admin on A beautifully designed garden and adjoining deck can be a wonderful addition to any home, providing extra outdoor living space for relaxing, dining and entertaining. When planning new garden landscaping and decking, the key is to create functional, comfortable spaces tailored to your lifestyle.
Start by envisioning how you want to use the area. Do you love gardening and want vegetable beds and flower gardens? Are you an avid grill master looking forward to summertime barbeques? Do you frequently host family gatherings and parties? Determining the purposes will guide other decisions.
Most gardens benefit from having distinct zones – such as plant beds, lawn areas, pathways and seating spaces. Well-defined borders using plants, stones, fencing or rails help delineate the zones. Be sure to incorporate spaces to grow your favourite plants and veggies. Meandering gravel or stone pathways invite strolling through the gardens and add visual interest. Cozy seating nooks surrounded by beautiful blooms or foliage provide quiet spots to relax with a cup of tea or good book.
When designing decking, consider how it will coordinate with and complement the gardens. Decks extending from the home help seamlessly blend indoors and out. Opt for durable, low-maintenance materials that can withstand weathering. Treated timber and composite deck boards are attractive options requiring minimal upkeep beyond an occasional wash. Ensure proper foundations and structural supports meet building regulations. Include built-in benches, steps/stairs and overhead shade structures like pergolas. Lighting lets you enjoy the space well into the evening hours.
Carefully assess sun exposure, drainage and soil conditions in different garden zones to determine appropriate plants. Group those with similar light and irrigation requirements together. Favour hardy, native plants suited to the climate and natural rainfall whenever possible. This reduces maintenance while still delivering beauty. Always leave ample space between plants for future growth and avoid crowding.
When designing gardens and decking, it’s important to consider year-round appearance and functionality too. Incorporate evergreen shrubs, trees and screens to maintain privacy and structure during colder months when other plants die back. Trees with autumn foliage provide seasonal interest while deciduous varieties allow winter sunlight to reach gardens below. Hardscaping materials like gravel, pavers and stones keep paths clearly defined regardless of the season. On deck spaces, radiant heating, cosy furniture and weather-proof coverings expand usefulness over an extended period.
Lighting is another key design element. Subtle downlights illuminating steps and pathways provide safety and visibility on garden strolls after sundown. Upward directed spotlights in trees create dramatic shadows and highlights. Strings of fairy lights add whimsical charm wherever they’re wrapped. On decks, wall sconces, overhead fixtures and LED strips illuminate dining spaces for alfresco evening meals. Lighting allows you to fully utilise garden and deck areas well into the night.
When it comes to furnishings and decorative accessories, the overall style should coordinate with the home’s architecture while adding personality with colour, textures and materials. Timeless teak wood furniture is a classic choice resistant to weathering. Cast aluminium sets with cushioned seating offer comfort and low-maintenance. Weather-resistant rugs, throws, cushions and ceramic planters infuse character. Consider washable items for easy care. Finishing touches like sculpture pieces or unique garden art reflect individual style.
By thoughtfully incorporating versatile zones, comfy spaces, appropriate plantings, lighting, furnishings and regional suitability into the design, you can create the ultimate garden and deck for entertaining and enjoying alone time surrounded by nature’s beauty. They provide the perfect backdrop for casual barbeques, intimate dinner parties or simply relaxing with your morning tea. The end results are outdoor living spaces that seamlessly connect with interior rooms while providing an escape into serene, lush landscapes. With mindful planning guided by how you envision using the areas, you can craft your ideal oasis to nourish your mind, body and spirit for years to come.