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

The Essence of a 'Classy' Garden

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 creating an outdoor living space that exudes sophistication and timeless appeal.

Albone's Insights for Summer Entertaining

Gardening expert Clair Albone, from Wickes, has shared invaluable insights into cultivating such spaces, particularly as we approach the summer months and the season of outdoor entertaining. Her advice comes at a pertinent time, following commentary from socialite Nicky Haslam, who outlined elements he considers detrimental to a 'classy' garden – including fire pits, red roses, and yellow flowers.

Gardens as Outdoor Living Rooms

Albone’s guidance offers a counterpoint and a practical roadmap for homeowners seeking to elevate their outdoor areas. She emphasizes that modern gardens are no longer merely extensions of the home, but rather fully realized outdoor living rooms. This shift necessitates a more thoughtful approach to design and furnishing.

Key Elements for an Elegant Outdoor Space

She stresses the importance of intention, stating that every piece, plant, and accessory should earn its place within the overall aesthetic.

Statement Furniture

A key element in achieving this 'classy' look is investing in statement furniture. Albone advocates for timeless pieces crafted from durable, high-quality materials such as treated woods, rattan, and weather-resistant metals. These materials not only withstand the elements but also develop a richer patina over time, adding to the garden’s character.

Versatile Colour Palettes

Versatile colour palettes, focusing on neutral tones, are also crucial for maintaining a fresh and sophisticated look season after season. For those with ample space, Albone recommends opting for larger dining sets, as they naturally encourage social interaction and serve as a focal point for gatherings.

Subtle Lighting

Beyond furniture, lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood. She advises against harsh, overpowering lights, instead favouring subtle, layered illumination. Delicate LED lighting along pathways, backlighting for decking, and strategically placed string lights can create a warm and inviting ambiance.

Curated Accessories & Colour Choices

Furthermore, Albone champions a 'less is more' philosophy when it comes to garden accessories. Rather than cluttering the space, she suggests investing in a few standout pieces. This curated approach extends to colour choices, with weathered neutral tones and classic terracotta being particularly favoured.

Timeless Design Principles

The same principle applies to outdoor hardware, such as tiling, where muted grey tones are recommended for creating a peaceful and refined atmosphere. In essence, Albone’s advice is about creating a harmonious and intentional outdoor space that reflects understated elegance.

By focusing on quality materials, thoughtful lighting, and a curated selection of accessories, homeowners can transform their gardens into inviting and sophisticated retreats.