How to extend minimalism to the garden

Many people find it easy to introduce minimalist design into their home. There’s a lot of inspiration out there, and it’s an environment that’s easy to control. The outside elements, however, prove more difficult to temper, and many people don’t believe it’s possible to extend their minimalist ethos to the garden. But, this simply isn’t the case – it just takes a little more thought and effort.

Following the three principles

Just three principles can guide the minimalist garden aesthetic. First is intentionality. Every single element, whether it’s a plant or a pathway, must serve a clear purpose. This contributes to meaningful design rather than aimlessly adding elements. Secondly, embrace quality over quantity. Invest wisely in fewer high-quality materials that are durable. This not only cuts down on clutter, but it will look less weathered after a few years. Finally, focus on simplicity in both form and function. This is where you’re going to have to have an eye for clean lines and uncluttered layouts. The garden’s design should feel both logical and effortless. 

The importance of layout lines and negative space

For minimalist garden design to be effective, it needs to be planned before planting. Start by measuring your space accurately so you can gauge how big it is. Consider the sightlines from inside the house and key seating areas, and begin to think about how you use (or want to use) the garden. 

Emphasise clean lines and lean towards strong geometric shapes like squares or circles. But don’t forget, deliberate sweeping curves for paths and lawn edges can work too in being modern – “sweeping” is another keyword there, because you want to avoid fussy or overly intricate layouts. 

It’s also important to understand the power of negative space. These ’empty’ areas (for example, grey shingle), are really important because they let the key features stand out. You can create some breathability with space, and let the garden flow in a logical way.

Structure and surfaces

Hardscaping is what forms the permanent backbone of a minimalist garden. It’s arguably more important in a minimalist garden because it’s more exposed. Patios, paths, walls and even structures are what defines the space.

This structural clarity is important, but so are the material choices. Durable and high-quality materials with clean finishes will last longer, like smooth poured concrete. Minimise busy grout lines with sleek natural stone or sustainably sourced timber. Consistency in material choice across elements can create cohesion.

Function makes up a big part of minimalism, but don’t focus only on that. Structures should also be used as part of the aesthetic and to define specific zones. For example, bespoke aluminium pergolas add vertical interest with their sharp geometric forms, while the aluminium itself has incredible durability. Again, it’s quality over quantity, but with intentionality. Functionally, something like a pergola or awning can provide defined shade, creating an ‘outdoor room’ atmosphere.

Choosing plants for impact

Minimalist planting requires a lot of restraint – it’s difficult not to just jump into a bunch of plants you get excited about. But, you should work to limit the palette by cutting down on the number of species used, and select plants for their specific qualities. This might be their strong architectural form, their interesting texture, or a desirable structural habit like that of pleached trees. 

Emphasise form and texture over the fleeting flowers – there needs to be some permanence to the design. Large-leaved Hostas, sculptural ferns and neatly clipped hedging like boxwood can be some effective ideas. Specimen trees with clear silhouettes and an acer griseum can become living sculptures. You want things that can be trimmed neatly, and to group plants that create a bigger visual impact (e.g. in larger drift blocks or highly formal rows). It’s not always the most natural way to go, but it’s impactful.

Selecting features and furniture with purpose

So, you have your foundation and furniture within a clearly defined design. Now, it’s all about avoiding multiple distractions. Keep to a single, carefully selected focal point that is impactful. No matter what amazing items you find on sale when shopping, try to keep to this original plan.

This doesn’t mean you cannot acquire any new items, but they need not be a distraction. If you think you have found an ornament that can be placed within the focal point, for example, then this enhances the garden. For example, a modern water feature that sits within the centre of a space, which your eyes are already drawn to.

Embracing minimalism everywhere

Minimalist gardening often goes overlooked. Although it may seem at odds with a natural garden, you can have your cake and eat it. It’s possible to grow vegetation, but it just needs a little bit of pre-planning. Grand ornaments can be used, but they should be intentional and not conflict with one another. Ultimately, you can better connect your indoors with your outdoors when there’s a continuous motif that runs right through.