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UK Landscape Design Trends for 2024: Natural meets Hi Tech
An Eco-Conscious Shift in Garden Design
The best of British gardens in 2024 are awash with all those trendy buzzwords like “sustainable”, “eco-conscious”, “nature-based” and “biodiversity”. Yes, we know all gardens are green, but climate change and the need to cut carbon emissions is re-shaping our attitude to our glorious gardens in all sorts of ways, from the smallest courtyard to the grounds of grand estates.
The benchmark for cutting-edge garden design is always the Chelsea Flower Show, held in London each May. Chelsea is the ground zero of the landscaping business from which all garden designers take their lead.
This year Chelsea was defined by sustainable gardens, using (in the words of Gemma Lake, Chelsea Flower Show Manager) “eco-techniques, low carbon materials and processes” in creating gardens that are healthful and nurturing spaces.
By contrast, there’s also a distinct element of “smart” in today’s trendy gardens in the form of helpful tech, that not only cuts down on the chores but gets things done more efficiently.
So, what does all that mean for your humble back garden? If you want to be a garden trendsetter then there are plenty of ways you can incorporate the latest landscaping ideas into your precious outdoor space.
Here’s some pointers for creating a garden that is both a haven for healing the battered 21st century soul, and resilient enough to stand up to the extreme vagaries of the climate:
If you’re inspired to improve your garden or grounds in Devizes, contact us for a free, no obligation consultation and quotation so you’ll get an idea of what it’s possible to achieve.
The Shape of UK Gardens in 2024
Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature In
Let’s introduce you to some new landscaping design concepts that you may not have come across before, but will become increasingly familiar with as a modern British gardener.
- A Haven for Wellbeing: The concept of biophilic design, which emphasises our connection to nature, is influencing gardens in 2024. Natural materials like wood, stone, and water features create a sense of tranquility. Organic shapes in pathways and planting schemes further enhance this connection to the outdoors. Gardens are increasingly seen as extensions of living spaces, promoting relaxation and well-being.
- The Sensory Garden Experience: Gardens are being designed to engage all the senses. Fragrant flowers like roses and honeysuckle, rustling grasses, and the sound of trickling water features create a multi-sensory experience. This not only enhances enjoyment of the garden but can also be beneficial for mental health.
- Blurring the Lines Between Indoors and Out: Large sliding doors, bifold doors, and well-positioned windows create a seamless connection between the house and the garden. Outdoor furniture that complements interior décor further blurs the lines, encouraging use of the garden as an additional living space.
Xeriscaping for a Drier Future
As the UK experiences hotter and drier summers, xeriscaping, the art of landscaping with drought-tolerant plants, is gaining momentum. This approach utilises plants with low water needs, often from Mediterranean climates, like lavender, sage, and ornamental grasses. Gravel gardens, with minimal planting and a focus on water permeability, are another sustainable solution for drier areas.
Xeriscaping originated in arid climates, but with global warming becoming ever more evident, it is a garden design method that will be adopted increasingly in Britain, especially in the south-west.
Creating Eco-Friendly Gardens
As garden landscapers we are hearing more and more requests from clients for creating eco-friendly gardens which welcome and encourage birds and wildlife. Gone are the days of neatly mown lawns with razor-sharp edges, and carefully colour-coordinated border plantings. It’s all about getting back to nature.
Some essential features for an eco-friendly garden are:
- Have as many native plants as possible to nurture pollinators (especially bees) and attract wildlife.
- Have a water butt so as to collect rainwater for watering.
- Allow an overgrown “wild” section where nature can take its course.
- Have vegetable beds where you can “grow your own”.
- If there’s room, plant a tree or two for the shade, enjoyment of birds and to soak up carbon and noise pollution.
- Add a water feature – preferably a small pond that provides a habitat for amphibians and insects, and drinking and bathing water for other creatures.
- Set up a compost bin and recycle garden and vegetable waste in a sheltered, shady spot.
Smarten up Your Garden with Technology
Another gardening trend that has taken off big time in 2024 is the use of technology. Some of the ways you can make use of smart solutions for your outdoor space are:
- Smart Irrigation Systems: Technology is becoming increasingly integrated into gardens. Smart irrigation systems, which use sensors to adjust watering based on weather conditions and soil moisture, are a popular choice. These systems not only conserve water but also save time and effort.
- Remote Monitoring and Control: Busy homeowners are embracing remote monitoring and control systems for features like lighting, irrigation, and even garden ponds. These systems allow for adjustments to be made from a smartphone or tablet, providing greater control and convenience.
- Vertical Gardens for Urban Spaces: In urban areas with limited space, vertical gardens are a popular solution. These living walls, created using modular systems or pockets, maximise planting space and add a touch of greenery to balconies, patios, and even interior walls.
