An introduction to minimalist gardens
Modern garden design has changed dramatically over the years.
Minimalist aspects can make the garden into a great space for living
and entertaining, focusing on materials rather than planting. Tom Cole
talks you through a great example of Minimalist design.
A
minimalist garden design suits a young professional looking for a
clean, smart, low maintenance garden. It should feature sculptures,
architectural planting, and great vistas. All this adds up to an area
you can both entertain and relax in.
A well
designed minimalist garden can effectively provide you with an extra
room. The need for plants is minimal, so use artificial materials to
create a bold, crisp landscape.
Plants are
indeed key to a minimalist design, but it should be the hard landscape
features which tie it together, with materials used in sculpture and
furniture being echoed in the paving.
Use lighting to great effect, perhaps set into the patio, to alter the garden's mood as you enter the twilight hours.
Water can be used, but it should be calm and sedate which helps to create great reflective qualities.
It
is important to work with a good professional gardener and landscaper
in order to realise your ideas. Do not be afraid to provide any
professional with your own input and inspiration.
Steel,
glass, and concrete are all materials heavily featured in many
minimalist gardens. This ‘Industrial' basis does not mean it has to be
stark and unwelcoming, though a good knowledge of how to utilise these
materials is essential.
The front garden should always mimic the back, perhaps carrying on any features such as sculpture or water.