2023 has been a fantastic year for landscaping and we’ve seen a number of trends and updates continue to grow in popularity. From environmentally healthy landscapes to cottage gardens, we’ve fallen in love with so many creative and unique garden designs. So we thought we’d take a look at some of the latest landscaping updates of 2023 so far…
Environmentally friendly landscaping has become prevalent in recent years and continues to be a primary focus when it comes to creating unique outdoor areas. 2023 has seen an even bigger push for sustainability to be implemented at the core of garden design, creating environmentally healthy spaces. This includes the adoption of practices such as the use of sustainable materials, rainwater harvesting, and the cultivation of drought-tolerant plants.
Environmentally healthy landscapes focus on creating an area that promotes the health and well-being of the local ecosystem. Low carbon landscapes and gardening for local wildlife, as just two examples of this:
Sustainable landscaping extends its reach to edible landscaping, a trend that is continuing to grow in popularity. Today, a growing number of the population is looking to become more self-sufficient, particularly in line with the rising cost of living.
Edible garden is completed by those who are growing their own food, incorporating fruits, vegetables, herbs and edible flowers into their landscape design. This seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetics, introducing unique textures and colours that will enhance the overall appearance of your garden.
An edible garden designed to encourage wildlife and biodiversity – designed by Tom Massey and built by Urban Landscape Design Ltd (featured on TVs Your Garden Made Perfect)
2023 has seen a push for gravel gardens, and it’s no surprise why. They’re low maintenance, require little amounts of water and can thrive in hot, dry environments. Strategic planning allows for the integration of a variety of gravels and plants, creating a dynamic landscape that combines beauty with minimal maintenance. Gravel gardens also offer several benefits, encouraging moisture retention for the soil below in the warmer months, and providing insulation for plants in the winter.
In landscaping, darker shades are an emerging trend, creating a warm and sophisticated look for your garden. The tones are introduced as backdrops or bases for gardens and are then combined with small pops of colour to create focal points and draw interest to the area. The contrasting colours are eye-catching and enhance the overall aesthetics of the environment.
When selecting the materials and plants to create this vibrant landscape, you might choose darker natural stones or paving slabs, or darker flowers and foliage such as Aquilegia Black Barlow as your backdrop. For those pops of colour, you might choose some bright furniture or flowers such as wildflowers or dahlia imperialis.
Wildflower meadow as part of an arboretum project at Gordale, Wirral, constructed by Urban Landscape Design Ltd
The demand for functional and comfortable outdoor living areas has been propelled in recent years, having become highly popular during the covid-19 pandemic. More and more people are opting to spend time at home, and are viewing their outdoor spaces as an extension of the living area. There are lots of opportunities for relaxation, entertainment, and even working from home, with outdoor kitchens, fire pits, garden rooms and expanded patio areas.
Outdoor living spaces not only enhance aesthetics but can also encourage a deeper connection with nature, promoting well-being through relaxation, social interaction, and activities such as meditation and yoga.
Undercover outdoor kitchen, bar and lounge area in Cheshire, designed and constructed by Urban Landscape Design Ltd featuring Renson louvred roof canopy and Cubic Outdoor Kitchen
Last but not least, 2023 has seen the return of cottage gardens. Characterised by a profusion of colours, scents, and textures, these gardens offer a whimsical escape from urban life. The charm of cottage gardens lies in their unstructured layouts and ability to adapt to the changing seasons. Climbing plants such as roses or peonies flourish in these gardens, which can be home to a mixed array of uses from vegetable patches to outdoor relaxation areas. But that’s not all, the assortment of colours, scents and textures attract a wide range of wildlife, helping you to create the perfect sustainable landscape.
At Urban Landscapes, we are dedicated to transforming your outdoor spaces into captivating and unique gardens, catering to both residential and commercial needs. If you’re interested in transforming your garden into a wonderland, get in touch with us today! Call us on 01829 740194 or fill out our simple enquiry form, and a member of our friendly team will be happy to help you.
Directly with the client, we constructed and installed a beach themed garden, suitable for Dementia patients
Roof terrace with garden studio and different areas to enjoy, including a seaside themed area
A cool contemporary project on a new build property in Chester.
In this small courtyard development in Hoole, we created a cool split level space for the client who wanted a modern feel.
Directly with the client, we constructed and installed a beach themed garden, suitable for Dementia patients
Read More Large ProjectRoof terrace with garden studio and different areas to enjoy, including a seaside themed area
Read More Medium ProjectA cool contemporary project on a new build property in Chester.
Read More Small ProjectIn this small courtyard development in Hoole, we created a cool split level space for the client who wanted a modern feel.
Read More Outdoor KitchensThank you for getting in touch. We will get back to you as soon as possible.
We are the only London Stone partner in the North of the UK, providing their products on display and the same knowledgeable and friendly customer service you expect from this forward thinking landscaping products company.
Gold Partner status meaning we are approved designers and installers of RENSON® canopies
The Horticultural Trade Association provides a vital contact for identifying and dealing with key garden industry issues and opportunities, and represents industry views to Government and is its voice in the media.
We are members of the Association of Professional Landscapers and are vetted annually to keep up to date with legislation and best practice
Trustmark is the only government endorsed scheme for almost all trades in and around the home
All our operatives are ROLO trained which was introduced to raise the standards of Health and Safety and reduce the risks and accidents throughout the industry
We are accredited with Construction Health and Safety who as an organisation, help businesses and organisations manage their Health and Safety risks and safeguard their reputation
We are members of BALI, the UK’s trade association for the landscaping sector who have a rigorous vetting procedure
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