Creating a Relaxing Outdoor Sanctuary: Tips and Trends
Finding a peaceful retreat in your backyard is essential in this day and age with always being on the go and having such busy lifestyles. It’s a good space to retreat to and regenerate after a long day of working.
We specialize in transforming ordinary spaces into sustainable, serene sanctuaries that invite you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re considering a full landscape renovation or looking for small ways to enhance your outdoor area, we’ve got you covered with the latest tips and trends.
Here are some tips to create a relaxing outdoor sanctuary
1. Choose Native Planting
Incorporating native plants into your garden is a practice that promotes a healthier ecosystem. Native species are adapted to the local climate and soil, requiring less water and fewer pesticides. This not only makes your garden more sustainable but also provides a natural habitat for local wildlife. Consider plants like wildflowers for colour, ferns for texture, and shrubs that offer privacy and reduce noise pollution, creating a more tranquil environment.
2. Incorporate Water Features
The sound of water is universally soothing, making water features a must-have for any relaxation garden. Options range from small tabletop fountains to larger, free-standing waterfalls or ponds. Not only do these features add a focal point, but they also attract birds and beneficial insects. If you’re worried about water usage, many modern water features recirculate water, keeping your garden both sustainable and peaceful.
3. Create a Comfort Zone
Comfort is key when designing your outdoor sanctuary. Invest in durable, eco-friendly furniture that invites relaxation. Hammocks, swing seats, or a well-cushioned lounge set are perfect for kicking back. For those cooler evenings, consider an energy-efficient fire pit or a solar-powered heating system to extend the usability of your outdoor space.
4. Shade & Lighting
Proper shading and lighting can dramatically change the ambiance of your garden. Pergolas covered with climbing vines, large umbrellas, or a canopy of trees can provide much-needed shade on sunny days. As for lighting, solar-powered LED lights are a sustainable choice, offering everything from pathway lights to string lights that create a cozy, inviting glow after sunset.
5. Edible Gardens
Why not make your sanctuary productive as well as beautiful? Incorporating edible plants—such as herbs, vegetables, and fruit trees—adds a layer of interaction with your space. There’s nothing more relaxing than picking fresh herbs for your meals right from your garden. Plus, it’s a sustainable practice that reduces your carbon footprint and promotes food security.
6. Sensory Elements
Engaging all your senses can enhance the tranquillity of your garden. Fragrant plants like lavender, jasmine, and scented geraniums can provide a soothing aroma. Add tactile elements such as soft grasses or smooth stones to walk over barefoot. Wind chimes or bamboo rods can gently play with the breeze, adding a subtle, melodic sound to the air.
7. Private Pathways
Create a sense of exploration and privacy with winding pathways. Using natural materials such as wood chips, gravel, or stepping stones can keep the look organic and inviting. Pathways encourage movement and discovery, leading you or your guests through different aspects of your garden, each with its unique beauty and serenity.
Transforming your outdoor space into a relaxing sanctuary is great for creating that aesthetic feel, however, it also involves creating a sustainable, sensory-rich environment where you can truly disconnect and recharge.
Your garden should be a reflection of your own personal haven!
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About Me
I am the Owner of Inherit Designs Landscaping. Since 2003, my team and I have been providing sustainable garden solutions to the Cowichan Valley and Greater Victoria. I personally hold two certifications in horticulture and permaculture and take great pride in the service I offer my clients. My family and I live on our organic flower farm called Little Bee Blooms, run by my wife, Adria. Together we are continually conducting research gardens and experimenting in many aspects of horticulture and permaculture to improve our knowledge and the operation of our businesses.