Owning an outdoor space is one of the most sought-after items on a property purchaser’s wish list. Research conducted by mental health charity Mind highlighted the value of owning an outdoor space. The study found that people’s mental health had benefitted from spending time in nature since the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, seven million said their well-being was helped by taking up gardening for the first time.

With many of us spending more time at home, updating outdoor areas is now at the top of the agenda for many homeowners. If you’re looking to make a move on a garden makeover, we’ve rounded-up all the latest landscaping trends and top tips to turn your garden into a haven this summer. 

Creating a secluded sanctuary

Achieving garden privacy is crucial for relaxation. Regardless of your outdoor space's size, we offer various solutions to create a peaceful retreat.

Our Wingham fence panels and trellis ensure garden security and serenity. From classic Featheredge and Closeboard to stylish Venetian designs, we supply various options that meet both aesthetic and practical needs. Whether seeking sanctuary or enhancing your garden's allure, our Wingham range provides versatile solutions. With simple installation and minimal upkeep, achieving functionality and elegance is effortless.

Composite cladding and timber garden screening offer a modern touch with intriguing lines. Conceal unsightly walls, enhance outbuildings, or substitute traditional fence panels for lasting, stunning results. Try our Western Red Cedar garden screening, which is naturally durable, predominantly knot-free and responsibly sourced, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor projects. Our Rhombic Treated Screening is also a great way to create additional privacy with stylish results.

A colourful transformation

Adding colourful touches to your garden with outdoor paint is a fantastic way to infuse personality and vibrancy into your outdoor space. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting to cultivate your green thumb, painting outdoor furniture and fences can instantly elevate the look and feel of your garden.

Consider choosing bold, eye-catching colours like turquoise or yellow to make a statement or opt for more subtle hues like soft blues or greens for a tranquil, calming effect. Painting planters in coordinating or contrasting colours can tie together the overall look of your garden while providing a pop of colour to highlight your favourite flowers.

Perfect patios and attractive terraces

Enjoy alfresco dining in warmer months by defining an outdoor eating and entertaining space. Covers offers decking, paving, and decorative aggregates to enhance your garden.

Porcelain paving is both a hardwearing and stylish option for patios. The new Bradstone Fooria Porcelain Paving offers the ultimate choice for a sleek and stylish space. If you’re looking for a sophisticated, slate-like finish for your property, Fooria paving is the perfect solution. Alternatively, Bradstone Vitrified Arenaria paving is designed to replicate natural sandstone for a traditional twist.

Timber decking is still a popular choice for creating an effortless finish that is in harmony with its natural surroundings. Choose between softwood decking or hardwood decking. IRO Decking is created by combining the ancient Japanese process of Yakisugi with the latest timber technology. The result is a uniquely coloured wood that oozes character and charm.

Alternatively, composite decking is a stylish, durable, and maintenance-friendly option available in a range of colours and finishes. Try Millboard Enhanced Grain Decking in Limed Oak for a sun-drenched appearance. Use Millboard Touch-Up Paint in Limed Oak to blend cut ends and repair scuffs. 

Garden stones, pebbles, and cobbles enhance borders and add interest to outdoor areas. Use white chippings like LRS Polar White Chippings in pots, planters, or around a water feature to brighten your patio.

Low-maintenance artificial grass

Artificial grass is perfect for pet owners or families, offering year-round lushness with minimal upkeep. Hardwearing and available in various lengths and styles, it's ideal for play areas, providing a surprisingly realistic appearance. NamGrass Serenity (37mm pile) offers soft elegance for family gardens, while NamGrass Eclipse (30mm) ensures long-lasting, natural beauty.

Space to work and play

Garden buildings, such as summer houses and cabins, have become a popular way to create additional space away from the main property for work and play. If you’re looking at installing an outdoor building, we have all the products you might need to complete your project. These include insulation, flooring and cladding.

For further inspiration, check out our new landscaping brochure, which showcases more of the latest trends and tips for making your garden look great in 2024.