Usable outdoor space is one of the essential features of any garden. Imaginative outdoor spaces can transform a bland environment into one where you want to spend time. Without question, it’s advantageous to create a garden where you want to relax and unwind – perhaps read a book, enjoy some sunshine or have a barbecue.

If you’re looking for ways to upgrade your outdoor space, you can create some stylish and sophisticated options using stepping stones to upgrade your garden area. These stones can give your garden more structure and allow you and your visitors to take on a slower or more interesting journey through the space.

It won’t necessarily be a quick fix; however, this simple guide on how to plan and design your garden will make it much easier to achieve your dream plot.

Plan for what you want

Before you begin, you need to make sure that your garden design plans are attainable. You may need planning permission if you want to erect structures, fences, walls or gates or if you want to add to what’s already there. For example, in many areas, if the structure is to be over a metre high and next to a highway, or more than two metres elsewhere, official approval is required.

You may also need permission if you live in a listed building or if the structure shares a boundary with a listed building.

Understand and set the budget for the garden design

Even if you’re creating a small garden with a relatively simple design it can become a costly process once you factor in design fees, materials, machinery and hiring contractors.

It’s recommended that you spend around 5 – 15% of the value of the house on the garden, which can increase the value of your property by a similar if not greater, amount. Determine how much you can afford to spend and identify areas where you can cut costs if necessary.

Select your garden structures and buildings

Do you have garden storage ideas in mind for your garden? A secure shed for storing tools and equipment, as well as furniture that needs to be put away when not in use, can be part of your renovation plan from the start. If you only have a small amount of space, you may have to make do with a compact sentry shed or a dual-function storage bench.

Garden structures aren’t just for storage. For example, a glazed, summer house-type building could be ideal for spending time on hobbies, relaxing or working. Some designs combine a shed and a summer house, so you don’t have to double up on structures to achieve everything that you want.

Alternatively, if you enjoy growing crops, installing a greenhouse may be the way to go, or, if you’re looking for a secluded retreat to enjoy some peace & quiet, shed or garden room ideas might be best for you.

Pathways to connect your outdoor zones

When designing your outdoor areas, garden path ideas are essential. They’ll allow you to move from zone to zone and keep everyone off the grass when it’s frosty or wet. Like the foundation for your outdoor living spaces, paths can be made using various materials; ranging from pea shingle or slate chippings to wooden decking or granite sets. Pathways are a practical way of connecting the different zones in your garden. They can be attractive as well.

Consider garden maintenance

Needs and wants differ from person to person, but consider how you want your outdoor area to look and how much time you have for garden maintenance. Having a specific style or theme in mind can help determine the eventual layout and design details. Take the time to consult with everyone in the family, including the children and remember that a bit of wiggle room is usually required!

For instance, if you want to create a vegetable plot, you’ll need to make the effort to maintain it throughout the seasons. Likewise, if you plant a beautiful rose garden, ensure you’re happy to spend the time on pruning and dead-heading them when necessary.

Parting words

The primary purpose of your garden space should be what you have in mind when designing it. Whether you intend to use it primarily for relaxing, being self-sufficient in fruit & veg or for children to play, your garden space should be perfectly matched to how you and your family prefer to spend your time outside.

Bearing all of the above pointers in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating an interesting garden space where you and yours can enjoy the garden throughout the year.

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