The above image shows my concept design for the garden of a new-build home near Coventry, in England. The client had some specific requirements relating to features that they desired, but was open to suggestions for a wildlife-friendly and relatively low-maintenance space.
Human Spaces that Welcome Elements of the More-Than-Human World
This is a design that shows how it is possible to create fun and relaxing human spaces, outdoor living spaces that extend our homes, while also thinking about wildlife, and taking a sustainable and eco-friendly approach.
Many people who want to low maintenance space make the mistake of reducing the number of plants – opting for an expanse of paving or gravel or, even worse, for horrendous astroturf (the very worst choice you can make for yourself, nature and the planet).
But a greater diversity of carefully chosen plants can make a garden much lower maintenance, as well as providing a range of other benefits.
Rather that trying to impose control – let nature take charge. You’ll have a much more pleasing space, a space that can improve your mental and physical health, and will enrich rather than harming the natural world around you.
The client in this case understood that, even if you are not the keenest gardener, lush, green gardens filled with a range of carefully chosen plants are the best choice. If you can also incorporate a wildlife-friendly pond or other water feature, all the better.
This design is definitely a garden for people – with diverse features for fun and relaxation outdoors. But it will also become a space for wildlife too – a welcoming space for humans and for many creatures of the more-than-human world.
Landscape Design for Low-maintenance and Natural Spaces
After creating this concept plan, I also created full planting plans to help the client to create their garden.
Once established, the idea is that the largely native planting will more or less take care of itself – becoming a low-maintenance and relatively wild space where the client and friends can feel more connected to the natural world.
If you would like some help to create a low-maintenance, lush, natural and wildlife-friendly concept and planting plan for your own garden, please get in touch to discuss your specific project site and goals.
EWSP Consultancy 