Basic Design Concepts
Bold Designs
Garden design may seem like a "black art". The best designs may seem to arise from natural flair, an open mind, study of basic principles, a lot of experience and much hard work.
However, don't be put off from "having a go". Some designs may be costly but good design does not have to be expensive. Starting with what you already have and a bit of judicious bartering, you can soon assemble all you need for a first attempt.
Planning is Important
Before you start digging over your plot, make some basic decisions such as:
- Decide what you want from your garden, but be realistic. A lawn like the greens on your local golf course might be a nice idea but that is not very practical if it is to serve as a playground. If you have boisterous children and pets you need something a little more rugged.
- You may start with a lot of "wants" that may conflict with each other, so do some prioritising. Begin by identifying the "absolutes" such as the size and shape of your garden, your Prevailing Climate, any features that are essential for your needs and your available budget. Most importantly, consider the needs of the people for whom you are designing the garden. Are they particularly young, old or infirm? Is outdoor entertaining important to you or do you intend growing your own fruit and vegetables? Do you need a safe place for your children to play or is wildlife more important?
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Be Realistic in Your Design
You can usually cater for most requirements at least in part, but you need to establish priorities. Otherwise scenarios such as a prize plant being destroyed by a wildly kicked football may result in serious family friction.
See more information on Establishing Priorities in your design
Whatever your requirements, be realistic so that you don't begin something that is doomed to failure from the start. If you are short of ideas, there is a wealth of information on the Internet (see our own list of site reviews) and there are plenty reasonably priced books available in major bookstores and in charity shops.
And don't forget the possibility of using Computer Programs to help you design your garden.Read more about Design Concepts |
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