Gardening expert Clair Albone from Wickes shares her top tips for creating an elegant and timeless outdoor space, focusing on statement furniture, subtle lighting, and a curated selection of accessories.

Elevating Your Garden Design

The advice comes after socialite Nicky Haslam shared his views on what makes a garden look ‘common’. Achieving a truly elegant garden extends far beyond simply maintaining a well-manicured lawn and vibrant flowerbeds. It's about intentional design, carefully curated accessories, and a focus on timeless style.

Transforming Gardens into 'Outdoor Living Rooms'

As we approach the summer months and the season of outdoor entertaining, creating an outdoor space that exudes sophistication is more attainable than ever. Clair Albone, a respected gardening expert at Wickes, has shared invaluable insights into transforming gardens into ‘outdoor living rooms’ – spaces that reflect refined taste and offer a welcoming atmosphere for guests.

Responding to Design Commentary

Her advice comes at a pertinent time, following commentary from socialite Nicky Haslam, known for his discerning eye, who highlighted certain garden features considered ‘common’ and detrimental to a classy aesthetic. Albone emphasizes that a ‘classy’ garden isn't about extravagance, but rather about purposeful selection.

Prioritizing Purposeful Selection

Every element, from furniture to plants and decorative accents, should earn its place within the overall design. This philosophy stands in contrast to trends that prioritize fleeting fads or overly ostentatious displays. Haslam’s critique included once-popular items like fire pits, alongside specific flower choices such as red roses, rhododendrons, and yellow-hued blooms.

Timeless Aesthetic Over Trends

While his preferences lean towards white foxgloves and pansies, Albone’s guidance focuses on broader principles applicable to a range of styles. The core message is to invest in quality, durability, and a cohesive aesthetic that transcends seasonal trends. This means prioritizing materials that age gracefully and contribute to a sense of enduring elegance.

Key Elements of a Classy Garden

The focus should be on creating a space that feels both inviting and sophisticated, a true extension of the home’s interior. This approach moves away from simply filling a space with items and towards crafting an experience, a carefully considered environment designed for relaxation and social interaction.

Statement Furniture

Central to Albone’s recommendations is the importance of statement furniture. She advocates for pieces crafted from neutral tones, beautifully treated woods, and luxurious materials like rattan or sleek, weather-resistant metals. These materials not only withstand the elements but also develop a richer patina over time, adding to the garden’s character.

Subtle Lighting

Versatile colour palettes are also key, ensuring the space remains fresh and appealing for years to come. For larger gardens, Albone suggests investing in a substantial dining table to encourage gatherings and create a natural focal point. Lighting plays a crucial role in establishing the right ambiance. Rather than harsh, overpowering illumination, she recommends subtle, layered lighting – delicate LED pathways, backlighting for decking or seating, and decorative string lights draped over pergolas or fences.

Less is More

Finally, Albone champions a ‘less is more’ approach, advising homeowners to select a few standout pieces rather than cluttering the space with mismatched items. Weathered, neutral tones and classic terracotta hues are ideal for both furniture and hardware, while muted grey tones contribute to a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. Ultimately, creating a classy garden is about thoughtful curation, quality materials, and a commitment to timeless design.