PROJECT PLANNING
DISCOVER HOW TO DEVISE A SCHEME WITH PLENTY OF SPACE THAT’S PERFECT FOR RELAXING AND ENTERTAINING IN
FEATURE AMY HODGE
It’s never too late (or too early) to learn how to create your ideal outdoor space. Regardless of your budget and how much workable area you’re blessed with, having a clear idea of exactly what you want in your garden and how to deliver it will ensure you don’t make mistakes down the line which could result in having to do it all again from scratch.
‘When planning your garden, you should always define the main purpose of your space,’ explains Jody Crichton, owner and managing director of AOS Outdoor Kitchens (aoskitchens.co.uk). ‘Is it a place to entertain guests, eat meals or unwind with family? Then you can start to plan accordingly.’
MAKE A GARDEN WISH LIST
Garden designer Pollyanna Wilkinson (studiopollyanna.co.uk) agrees that before you reach for a shovel, you should think carefully about the things that are most important to you. ‘The first question to ask yourself is how do you want to use the space?’ she advises. ‘Be realistic about what you can fit into the plan. In large spaces you can designate a use per “zone” but in smaller spaces try to limit the uses to just one or two, rather than throwing the kitchen sink at it, which can make the space cluttered.’
Planning is the fun stage, so don’t be afraid to think creatively as well as practically when you’re visualising your new garden. ‘Making a wish list is a great place to start and putting down what you would really enjoy in your garden is hugely satisfying,’ says garden designer Jilayne Rickards ( jilaynerickards.com).
LEARN THE FUNDAMENTALS
Next, get to know your garden so you can understand the space you’re working with. A key point to consider is how much sun or shade your garden gets and at what times of the day. Southfacing gardens get a lot more sun than north-facing ones for example, so it’s important to look at your garden’s aspects so you can plan accordingly.
‘If you are a sun lover, then plan your garden seating to follow the sun,’ says Pollyanna. ‘Perhaps include a morning coffee spot in an east-facing space, and a chill-out zone in a south/west-facing area for afternoon sun. Equally, if you prefer shade, include a dining space that sits in a shadier spot.’
Think carefully about the planting, too. ‘Do a soil test and note if it is clay, loam or otherwise so that you can select the right plants for the conditions,’ suggests Jilayne. You can buy test kits at most garden centres. Once you understand the ba
