Creative ideas for a standout summer garden

Summer brings with it the opportunity to transform gardens into stunning outdoor spaces and create a paradise for passionate gardeners who grow their own vegetables whatever the season. With the right design idea and features, having an impressive outdoor area of any size or shape, will not only attract interest in a property, but can significantly enhance the value of your home. 

This article explores a variety of garden trends and ideas, from budget-friendly ideas to entertain in, to well-designed luxury additions and substantial, sustainable transformations, that will impress and entertain visitors throughout the summer.

Transform areas with attractive water features

Incorporating elements like fountains or ponds can add a serene and luxurious feel to any space. Water features are not only visually appealing but also create a calming ambiance with the soothing sound of running water. If you have the means, landscape your garden around a swimming pool for a standout garden with the wow factor.

Bird tables and decorative sculptures can be great for attracting more wildlife to your garden. With flowers and plants attracting bees and butterflies, a pond is great for attracting more wildlife into outside spaces. They also serve as the focal point of a garden and are a compelling feature for prospective buyers or tenants. Likewise, a bird feeder looks pretty and is an invitation for all kinds of birds flying by. 

Update with eco-friendly ideas

Opting for native plants is a trend that benefits both the garden's aesthetics and the local ecosystem. Native plants are more adapted to the local climate and soil, which means they require less water and maintenance. This not only makes gardens and homes more sustainable but is also more appealing to environmentally-conscious buyers or renters.

Another eco-friendly idea is the creation of rain gardens. These are designed to absorb runoff water from roofs, driveways, and other hard surfaces, reducing the impact on local waterways and minimising the risk of flooding. These are not only functional but can also be picturesque, adding to your property’s unique selling points.

Design spaces with defined zones

Think beyond the traditional patio or deck and introduce defined areas for dining, lounging, or even an outdoor office. These spaces can be enhanced with weather-resistant rugs, comfortable seating, and ambient lighting, making them ideal for both relaxation and socialising. Whether you're looking to create a cool garden retreat or a stunning area for entertaining, there are many practical tips that can help turn your outdoor vision into reality.

Not everyone has the luxury of expansive outdoor spaces and impressive garden rooms, but small can still be impactful. Pocket gardens that take up small, often overlooked spaces outdoors, and vertical gardening techniques are an excellent way of making a powerful first impression. Vertical gardens not only save space but can also serve as striking green walls that provide privacy and reduce noise pollution.

Smart outdoor lighting and well-positioned wall, border and downlighters can also enhance the appearance of your garden on a fairly minimal spend while increasing your home’s overall security. Smart systems can be controlled via your smartphone, allowing you as the owner or tenants to adjust settings remotely. Smart lighting can also highlight outdoor features, illuminate paths, and create an inviting atmosphere for summer evenings entertaining guests.

Visit garden shows for inspiration

For the best inspiration for your garden, organise a visit to some of the many fabulous garden shows and famous landscaped venues that are open to the public. These beautiful attractions display the pinnacle of garden design and also introduce visitors to new plant varieties, innovative techniques, and landscape features that can be adapted to personal spaces. Here are some notable examples that offer a wealth of inspiration:

Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival

Also organised by the Royal Horticultural Society, the Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival is another excellent source of inspiration. It is known for its friendly and relaxed atmosphere, extensive floral displays, and practical gardening advice. The festival also features conceptual gardens that push the boundaries of traditional gardening, perfect for those looking to add a unique touch to their outdoor spaces.

Kew Gardens

As one of the world's leading botanical gardens, Kew Gardens in London provides not just a look at large-scale gardening but also offers ideas on conservatory plants, rare plant species, and landscape architecture. Their innovative use of plantings and the integration of educational elements can inspire gardeners to think differently about how they use their space.

Eden Project

Located in Cornwall, the Eden Project is a great example of eco-conscious gardening, where sustainability and nature preservation come together. The project is world-famous for its massive biomes housing plant species, and showcases how landscapes can be used to educate and engage the public.

If these inspiring gardens are anything to go by, a visit can be much more than a lovely day out. If you’re redesigning your outside areas ready to market it or landscaping it after you’ve moved in, seeing unique gardens with stunning features and a mix of outdoor spaces can provide some inspiring ideas for you to take home. 

Add bold colours for year-round designs

To give your garden a vibrant look throughout the summer, consider planting perennial borders. Perennials come back year after year and bloom at different times, ensuring continuous colour. They can also serve as a low-maintenance option that adds long-term value to the property.

Incorporating evergreens ensures that your outdoor planters and beds remain attractive even in wetter months. Evergreen shrubs and trees provide a backdrop of green against the starkness of a dark garden, enhancing the year-round appeal of the property.

A standout garden for the summer can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal and value of your property. Whether it's small, budget-friendly updates or larger, luxury installations, there are multiple ways to create impressive and inviting outdoor spaces. Well-kept gardens with designated zones for dining out or relaxing in are appealing to prospective buyers and tenants, and provide beautiful and functional outdoor areas for you to enjoy throughout the year.

If you're looking to let or sell your property, we can help. Get in touch with your local branch or book in for a property valuation.

This post was written by guest blogger, Annie Button.