LANDSCAPING & EXTERNAL FINISHES


Lessons in landscaping


Ronan O’Dowd from AG Outside Rooms shares his top landscaping lessons for maximising your outdoor space and adding value to your property


T


here was once a time when British gardens sat largely unused except for the sporadic BBQ upon sighting


the sun. However, 2020 and beyond saw unprecedented investment in outdoor areas as it became the only way to connect with loved ones, bringing with it a new appreciation for our outside spaces.


Despite our questionable weather, homeowners are now embracing al fresco living and viewing their gardens as a true extension of their house, another room to eat, drink, play and relax in. However large or small your space is, here are some ways to get more out of your exterior and maximise your homes kerb appeal.


CONSIDER THE HOUSE Your house plays a critical piece of the puzzle when designing your outdoor


space. The design and architecture of your home can help inuence the space outdoors, for example a cottage style garden compliments a country home whereas a minimalist garden helps set off a more modern building.


THINK ABOUT PROPORTIONS I your garden is at, plants will add more kerb appeal than small pretty owers se repetitions midsie shrubs to line a path or a row of shrubs) and choose pieces that are inspired by and complement the shape and size of the house. This will create an instant impact.


ALFRESCO DINING People are now viewing their outdoor space as another room to eat, drink, play, and relax, providing tradespeople with a new challenge of bringing the indoors out. One way to do this


is investing in an outdoor kitchen, something that has been gaining popularity as people transition the hearth of the home outdoors.


Nothing says ‘wow’ like an outdoor kitchen area – and it means you won’t have to step inside and lose a moment of the fresh warm summer air. By combining walling and ag ranges, it is possible to create fully functioning outdoor kitchens and bars, including a BBQ, pizza oven, or even a smoker.


EDIBLE GARDENING Edible gardening has grown in popularity  irrespective o whether you find yourself in an urban enclave or a country garden. Living walls and herbs in window pots are great if you are short of space and if you have a large garden why not try and grow your own vegetable patch. Not only do they look great, but they


‘Edible gardening’ has grown in popularity – irrespective of whether you find yourself in an urban enclave or a country garden


72 www.sbhonline.co.uk sep/oct 2022


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