This newly constructed cottage gave us a gift – a blank palette with which to create the garden of our dreams. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or first-time homeowner, building a garden from scratch (or even renovating an existing landscape) can feel overwhelming. By breaking the project down into bite-sized pieces, you, too. can build the garden of your dreams.

Gardening One Space at a Time

Think of the garden as you would your living room. You might have a reading nook, an area for the family to watch movies, or a game table. Likewise, each area of the garden serves a different function or purpose. In this design, the main entryway welcomes guests, a seating area provides a place for relaxation, and a side entrance connects the home to the landscape.

Focusing on one area at a time makes landscaping much more manageable. We’ve broken our design into three sections, outlining simple steps for building each area and including tips on adapting the basic concepts to different scales and budgets.

Emphasize the Entryway

A well-designed garden directs visitors in the right direction – namely the front door. Create a visual “landing pad” for guests by accenting the entryway with color and structure.

Create A Colorful Seating Area

Whether you desire a quiet oasis to relax with your morning tea or a spacious outdoor dining room to gather with friends, a seating area is essential to relaxation and enjoying the landscape.

Warm and Welcoming: First Impressions in the Garden

This stylish side entrance design offers inspiration for a “first impressions” garden – the areas of the landscape visitors see as they approach the home.

Tying It All Together: 5 Steps to Creating Continuity

Designing a garden in parts and pieces can leave the landscape looking a bit disconnected. Not to worry – we’ve pulled together a few tips on creating continuity throughout the garden.

Download the Shine Brightly Garden Plan PDF

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