Feature: Landscaping “Adding warmth to a garden is done in


two ways: by adding texture, for that cosy feeling, and by adding literal warmth, through heaters, fire pits and other sources,” explains Farrell. “In Nordic cultures, this is because warmth is as much about how a space feels as it is about temperature. “Simple additions like outdoor rugs made


from weather-resistant, natural fibres can soften hard surfaces and make seating areas feel more welcoming underfoot. Candlelight is also important,” Farrell continues, “as it adds a gentle, human warmth that encourages people to linger, even when the evenings draw in early. “Fire pits and thoughtfully designed heaters


can extend time outside too, but they work best when they’re naturally integrated into the space rather than dominating it. There’s nothing Scandi about a huge industrial heater in your garden!


“When warmth is introduced in a considered


way, the garden becomes somewhere you naturally gravitate towards in the late afternoons. Not just because it’s warmer than your typical garden, but because it feels calm, sheltered and inviting. That balance is central to friluftsliv and it’s something that all UK gardens should adopt from 2026 onwards.”


Choose fewer materials that age well Nordic garden design is rooted in simplicity, longevity and harmony with the landscape. Rather than bright, trendy finishes, the Scandinavian approach favours natural materials – such as wood or stone – that tend to look better with age. “In Nordic gardens, materials are chosen


for their durability and how they change over time,” says Farrell. “Teak, for example, is naturally resilient and develops a soft, silvery patina as it weathers. “It’s a material that feels alive, in part because it develops over time – just like your garden. Natural materials are also timeless, perfectly complementing one another as they would in nature. “Overall, you should be prioritising strong,


sturdy garden furniture and pots for potting – that means stone, teak, wood, ceramics and more,” Farrel continues. “If it’s sustainable or recyclable, that’s a nice bonus – eventually returning to the earth for a true sense of calm.”


Plan for planting in every season Not all planting and harvesting has to stop when colder months set in, which is something that we can all learn from friluftsliv. Scandinavian outdoor spaces are planned with nature’s cycle in mind, which is why a well- thought-out planting and mowing schedule can leave your garden looking just as full of life in February as it did last August. “Winter doesn’t mean you have to say


goodbye to your veg and plants, you just need to plan for the change – and the same goes for spring, autumn and summer!” says Cooper. “As temperatures drop, it’s important to protect anything that won’t tolerate frost. Less-hardy potted plants, such as pelargoniums or fuchsias, are best moved indoors or into a cold frame, where they can be kept alive until spring. “From a design perspective, structure becomes


even more important outside of peak growing season,” Farrell adds. “Using pots to layer planting, and clearly defining areas for different types of greenery, helps the garden feel organised and intentional, even when growth slows. “That sense of structure makes the space


more pleasant to spend time in throughout the year, reinforcing the idea that your garden is something to be enjoyed in every season.” For more information on Nth Degree visit https://nthdegree.co.uk and on the friluftsliv concept, see https://www.visitnorway.com/ things-to-do/outdoor-activities/friluftsliv.


Bira urges shoppers to think local first this Mother’s Day


Independent retailers are being encouraged to promote their Mother’s Day offerings as part of the latest Love Your High Street campaign, taking place this March.


T


he British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is calling on communities to support their local


shops during the key Mother’s Day trading period, as part of a year-long initiative to make shopping local an instinctive choice for consumers. Following the Valentine’s Day campaign in


February, Bira is running themed campaigns throughout 2026 tied to recognisable events including Easter, Father’s Day and Black Friday. The aim is to ensure that when consumers think about gifts or seasonal spending, they instinctively check their local shop first. All campaigns will culminate in Love Your


High Street Week, taking place from 9th to 15th November 2026, which will include the annual awards celebrating outstanding independent retailers. Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: “We’re passionate about championing independent businesses and vibrant high streets. By running


GCU Spring 2026


campaigns throughout the year during key trading periods, we’re embedding the message that shopping local should be the natural first choice. “Mother’s Day is a perfect opportunity for shoppers to discover the unique gifts and personal service that independent retailers offer. These businesses bring character and creativity to our towns, but they need our support to thrive.” Bira is providing free marketing assets to help businesses promote their participation in the Mother’s Day campaign, with downloadable resources available at https:// bira.co.uk/campaigns/lyhs/. Shoppers are encouraged to share their local finds using the #LoveYourHighStreet hashtag. Mr Goodacre added: “By choosing to shop locally during Mother’s Day and throughout the year, we can keep our high streets buzzing with life, create a stronger local economy and ensure small businesses continue to flourish.”


For more information and to download free campaign assets use the link below: u bira.co.uk/campaigns/lyhs/


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