When designing the garden, we want to create a connected experience from one area to the next, including any transitional spaces. Starting close to the house, keep the design tame, especially with modern buildings that have hard, clean lines. As you move further from the house, the garden should grow more wild as it reaches the borders of the property, smoothing the transition from garden to the natural landscape beyond.
When choosing plants, consider exterior details of the house, such as trim, shutters and the color of roof-tiles. Use plants and flowers with harmonious colors to blend the house and the garden. A simple way to achieve this is to stick with one main color family that suits your hardscape elements and add a dash of complimentary color.
The most beautiful gardens have corners and points of interest, which can be used to further enhance, compliment and bridge the house and natural landscape. Garden features should reflect the house façade, walkways and edging, and of course, the surrounding area. All these small details add up to a harmonious and uplifting experience.
It’s not just about complimenting the environment, but achieving a sense of balance and comfort. A cottage in the rambling countryside will be enhanced with bright native flowers, lush grass, stone garden statues and a wooden bench in a sunny corner, whereas a house in the dry, sunny Mediterranean will better suit cacti, stone paths, big leafy plants, a fountain piece and shady sitting areas.