Bored of your outdoor space? Need your garden to do more?
Then let’s talk zones.
It’s no secret that us Brits love our gardens. But with summer fast approaching, and the prospect of being able to jet off abroad still very much in the balance, we’re demanding more from our outside areas than ever before. Which is why you need to consider creating zones. A great way to maximise your garden’s potential and use space more effectively.
So, whether it’s making the most of a sun trap to relax with a good book, creating an area to cook and entertain, or sectioning off a safe space for the kids to run riot, zoning correctly can help.
All it takes is a touch of creative thinking and you could be enjoying a garden that not only looks great but works brilliantly too!
Zoning out
Think your garden is too small? Don’t be too quick to dismiss the idea – zoning can still work for you!
Regardless of size, with a little imagination, zones can help to make the most of any outdoor area. In fact, the smaller your garden the more essential it is to make sure every inch is being used to its full advantage.
Focusing time and energy on making your garden really work can reap untold benefits.
Benefits for your health…
- being outside boosts your mood and enhances your overall wellbeing
- relieves stress
- encourages you outside to get your daily dose of vitamin D from sunlight
Other advantages…
- creates the impression of more room
- makes the space work for everyone
- adds value to your home and makes it more attractive to potential buyers
First steps to zoning success
After 12 months of lockdown restrictions, it’s likely you’ve had plenty of time to establish what it is you like about your garden – and what you don’t!
So start by writing down a list of everything you want to keep and focus on everything you’d like to hide – like the bins or the kids’ toys.
Possible ideas could include:
- Maximising a sun trap – have you noticed that there’s an area of your garden that gets the sun all day, or is there a spot that would be perfect for sipping sundowners in the evening if only there was somewhere to sit? Considering where the sun hits your garden throughout the day can help you to make the best choice of what to position where.
- A relaxing space – need to get away from it all? Fed up of the neighbours being able to nosy at what you’re up to or keen to escape the rest of the family for a little peace and quiet? Sectioning off a small private area is a great way to create an escape zone.
- Somewhere to eat and entertain – if you enjoy barbequing then build an area for this – ideally away from flying footballs!
- A space for the kids – perhaps you want the kids to have a place to call their own? Then try fencing off an area of grass for games and running about.
- A sheltered area – this is the UK? So if you’re looking for maximum enjoyment all year round, creating a little area that is sheltered either by a canopy or a sun house, will be money well spent.
- Storage zone – need your garden things kept within easy reach but don’t want them spoiling the view? Built a storage zone to tuck them out of sight.
How to zone effectively
We’ve established the types of zones you might like, but how do you create them?
Well, the good news is there are lots of options available to you. Here we take a look at some of the most effective:
- Plants
Creating borders, trailing climbers over trellis archways, planting small trees or bushes – there are umpteen ways you can use plants to determine boundaries and section off areas. Attractive and often colourful, this is a great way to naturally form areas. Pick your plants wisely and you can even create a heavenly scent to enjoy too.
- Fencing
Paint in bold colours to make a statement or opt for natural green or brown hues to blend with surroundings, either way fencing clearly marks out boundaries and can be a great way to add privacy.
Just be careful not to go overboard, as too much fencing can make areas feeling pinned in and too enclosed.
- Balustrades
If you’re concerned about feeling ‘fenced in’ then glass or steel balustrades are a fantastic way to achieve the same result without obstructing your line of vision. They can be used to define patio or decking areas, safely section off garden ponds or swimming pools or to make walkways. Thanks to their ‘barely there’ appearance you can subtly distinguish zones, whilst still benefiting from the full, uninterrupted view of your garden.
- Create contrast
Whether that’s by using different materials – wood, stone, glass, steel, grass – or by using different levels (ever considered raised decking?), the key to zoning is mixing things up and creating interest. And the good news is you can be as subtle – or as obvious – as you like.
Talk to the balustrade experts
Interested in using zones in your garden?
At Square 1 Balustrades, we offer a stunning range of balustrade systems and, thanks to our extensive experience, we can help you to identify the right balustrade system for your outdoor space.
Why not take a look at what we have on offer and get in touch with the team today to find out more?
