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The garden is an extension of our homes. And just as interiors need a refresh every now and then, your outdoor space deserves one, too. We're showcasing the top 10 garden trends you need to know about, drawing on ideas from around the world. We'll share how you can use them as inspiration to revitalise your own outdoor sanctuary.
Gardens are veering away from being strictly structured and manicured. It’s all about loosening up and allowing your outdoor area to be wild and free, as nature intended. “There’s a certain whimsical quality about it,” says horticulturist Chloe Thomson of Bean There Dug That (@beantheredugthat). It also provides opportunities for pollinators – such as birds and bees – and other wildlife to visit and take refuge.
Tip: Plant beds and pots with a mix of shrubs and flowering perennials. Add sources of water, shelter and food for wildlife.
The wellness garden – a place to restore, relax and recharge – continues to be one of the biggest trends in outdoor design. There’s no denying the restorative effect of nature, which has become more apparent since 2020, says Chloe. “Many people turned to their gardens to find peace and calm,” she says. “It offered a place to restore their mental and physical health.”
It's important to keep in mind that 'wellness' means different things to different people, so do what feels right for you - for example, tending a vegie patch or sitting on a lawn surrounded by trees and shrubs.
Tip: Setting up a comfy outdoor chair in a peaceful spot is an easy win, or plant some herbs for contented pottering with productive rewards.
Paths can risk being dull if the same material is used throughout the landscape. To create interest, play with different textures and shapes. Landscape designer Carolyn Blackman of Vivid Design (@vividdesigning) explains that, if done right, “textural contrasts define zones and give an overall feeling of rhythm and cohesiveness.”
Tip: A granite paver is perfect for landings, but opt for a granite stepping stone for a side path.
Sometimes, being indoors can feel a little claustrophobic. “It makes sense to transform the backyard into a space where we can revel in creature comforts outside.” Outdoor lounges and other furniture turn a patio into a cosy, comfortable area. Complete the setting with appropriate lighting and consider outdoor décor that makes it feel like home.
Tip: Dedicate an area of the backyard to creating an alfresco room. Install pavers or outdoor flooring to separate it from the garden; if possible, add a weatherproof shelter or cover. Vertical planting is a great way to visually link your alfresco room to the rest of the garden.
An unexpected feature can be a fabulous focal point. Consider adding a sculpture or a decorative screen, or even a structural element, like a black-stained timber deck or pergola in striking Feast Watson 'Black Japan'.
Tip: Keeping the garden's materials palette neutral will allow your accent piece to shine. “Hardscaping features with an aged patina mix harmoniously within a garden and are also eye-catching,” adds Chloe.
The colours, patterns and textures of greenery bring a landscape to life, and help to balance the built environment.
Tip: Pare back hardscapes with plantings. Feature plants in interesting ways, like an espaliered camellia or citrus against a masonry wall.
Design with accessibility and inclusivity in mind, says Carolyn Blackman. “Too often wheelchair users are perched on the end of tables and seating areas because it’s convenient, but they struggle to be part of the main conversation.” Factor this in if grandparents visit often or you’re planning for retirement.
Tip: Construct a gentle slope rather than steps to link zones. Use paving materials that allow easy manoeuvring and avoid uneven surfaces (like gravel) on paths. Soften a block of pavers by breaking them up with groundcover plantings
Sustainability isn't a trend - we all need to reduce our environmental impact. One area to focus on is using materials that are built to last or can be repurposed, such as good-quality bluestone and red brick materials. “They often have a timeless quality about them, too,” says Carolyn.
Tip: Look around your garden - can old pavers be re-laid in a more interesting pattern rather than replaced?
Growing your own food is good for the mind, the body, and the bank account. Anyone can do it, whether you live in an apartment or have a large garden.
Tip: Plant a wide bowl with a mix of cut-and-come-again edibles, like lettuce, spinach and rocket.
Upcycling is a trend, notes Chloe. “More people are open to purchasing second-hand and reclaiming old before shopping new,” she says. Items destined for council clean-up can be repurposed into pots or garden ornaments.
Tip: Old teacups make sweet planters, as do wheelbarrows. Here’s a quick wheelbarrow upcycle project you can get done in a weekend.
What you need:
Step #1: Brush away dirt and debris from around the wheelbarrow tray, handles, axle and wheels. Use a medium-grit sanding sponge to rough up the plastic tray to create a key for the paint. Sand over the metal areas to remove surface rust.
Step #2: Use a 16mm spade bit to drill drainage holes into the base of the tray, about 150mm apart to prevent pooling. Apply tyre shine over the tyres and leave to dry. Wipe the wheelbarrow all over with a damp cloth to remove dust.
Step #3: Use painter’s tape to mask the tyres. Spray plastic primer over the tray, and metal primer over the handles, axle and wheels, leaving to dry.
Step #4: Apply at least three light, even coats of universal enamel paint in white over the tray, handles and axle; add gold to the wheels, leaving to dry after each coat.
Step #5: Repot plants into terracotta pots using fresh potting mix.
Tip: Choose plants with a variety of heights for interest and place trailers to flow over the sides of the barrow.
Keep in mind…
Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.
Check out our Garden Corner community page.
Photo Credit: John Downs, Natasha Dickins and Cath Muscat
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
