To help self-builders transform muddy plots into luscious garden havens, Anita Magee of Tobermore looks at the top trends inspiring garden design.
Current garden trends are seeing a strong focus on blending luxury with sustainability, creating outdoor areas that are both stylish and functional. Features like decorative and retaining walls help define spaces, while texture, colour and pattern add character – all of which is softened by planting for a beautiful, outdoor space.
MAXIMISE SPACE IN YOUR GARDEN DESIGN
Smart layouts are shaping garden design trends, helping self-builders make the most of every corner. Ornamental feature walls can be used to partition spaces or create privacy. Walls have the added benefit of creating a safe space for children and pets, while also reducing noise from nearby roads.
For sloping plots, use mortarless retaining walls to build tiers and create usable space. Self-builders can also use mortarless retaining walls to make practical raised beds or save space and increase functionality by integrating a stylish built-in seating area. Those with young children could even consider adding a slide for a fun way to zip from one level to another!
GARDEN ZONING IDEAS FOR OUTDOOR LIVING
After deciding on a layout, self-builders should take time to think about how they’ll use each part of the space. Clever design creates distinct zones, each with a different use. Outdoor rooms or partially covered areas will take off this year. Outdoor heating, lighting and all-weather furniture ensure your garden is usable in all seasons.
Retreat spaces are more important than ever in today’s fast-paced world, so why not create a calming sanctuary or meditation zone? This can be achieved by building a dedicated quiet, shady corner with features like a water feature, or comfortable lounge seating.
For socialising, features like an outdoor kitchen or BBQ space allow for alfresco dining, while sunken fire pits mean the garden can be used after the sun goes down. Similarly, outdoor jacuzzies or hot tubs add a real touch of luxury and are a hit with adults and kids alike.
TEXTURES, PATTERNS & NATURAL FINISHES
2025 is all about gardens that make a statement through landscaping. Be bold and experiment with different patterns, colours, sizes and even laying patterns to add a unique touch.
Consider how to link the different elements of the garden. Gone are the days of drab grey pavers – today self-builders can mix a wealth of materials, decorative finishes and warmer, nature-inspired colour palettes for paving, patio areas and walling.
Don’t be afraid to play with texture. Combine different materials like smooth slabs with textured natural stone-look concrete. This creates visual interest and can turn your patio or walkway into a statement feature.
The same is true of colour. Co-ordinating tones and colours creates cohesion and ensures that hard landscaping flows throughout the garden. Alternatively, use contrast to create a dramatic, contemporary look.
SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS & SMARTER DRAINAGE
83% of self-builders want to incorporate eco-friendly options into their plans. Outside the home, this means replacing traditional driveways and patio materials with sustainable options such as permeable paving.
Permeable paving is a type of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) device that helps manage surface water run-off from rain to prevent flooding. It works by slowing and filtering the water at the source by trapping and breaking down harmful pollutants within the stone.
It comes in a variety of finishes and surfaces, so permeable paving can be tied into the design aesthetic of the home. It’s also virtually indistinguishable from standard block paving, meaning self-builders can mix and match, using permeable paving for driveways and larger patios, and standard paving for pathways where permeable paving may not be practical.
BLENDING PAVING WITH PLANTING
Integrating greenery with paving and walling creates a more natural, balanced garden design and helps create privacy. Use a mix of bold, sculptural plants, such as grasses or hydrangeas to create a statement. As with hard landscaping, consider how colour, pattern and texture will work together.
Decorative walling can form a perfect backdrop for tall and climbing plants like ivy, clematis or wisteria. Beds above retaining walls can be planted with trailing plants that tumble over the top, creating pools of colour. Vertical planting is also a great way to maximise smaller spaces.
For sustainability, opt for native plants to create wildlife-friendly gardens. Plants that thrive in the UK climate require less water over the dryer summer months. They’ll also attract vital pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Incorporating sensory elements like fragrant flowers, textured plants and water features will also encourage nature and create tranquillity.
Ultimately, good design is about unlocking the potential of your outdoor space. Decorative and retaining walls can shape and zone a garden, creating beautiful, functional spaces suitable
for year-round use. Playing with texture, colour and patterns as part of the hard landscaping design adds a depth and personality that truly mirrors the home. At the same time, permeable paving gives self-builders the chance to ensure solutions are sustainable too. Finally, softening the scheme with planting will create a space that balances form and function, and elevates your garden from good to truly great.
Anita Magee is a landscape architect & garden designer at Tobermore