weeklyGARDEN
In this clever colour scheme, the aggregate under the jigsaw picks up the colour of the stone-edged steps and wall. It’s also used in the beanbag, which in turn features a dark maroon that mimics the foliage of the Leucadendrons.
There are times when I wish the word ‘style’ had never been invited into the modern design world. It’s often prescriptive and stops you from having what you really want. So the next time you’re inclined to buy a gnome to brighten up a minimalist space, go for it.
Easy add-ons!
Lee Ann Bramwell GARDEN EDITOR
Star jasmine is one of the best low-growing plants for softening anything. Here, it relaxes the transition from pavers and riverstones to the house. It’s happy to be trimmed too.
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There’s a lot going on in this courtyard, but because it’s well designed, it retains its modern look. Subtle colours, level changes and a combination of sculptural and soft planting work to make it an inviting outdoor room.
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Placing minor structures – planters, gabion boxes or seats – in a big, minimalist square will give the space some intimacy.
The uncompromising lines of this angular space are softened by a frothy papyrus.
omeone was looking around our garden the other day and complimented me on my success at softening the hard lines of our front terrace which, if you were being kind, you might call ‘contemporary’. I imagine he was referring to the shaggy blue rugs outside the French doors which are there solely for the benefit of the dog, and a pile of throws and cushions in hues of blue, green and apricot slung in a corner awaiting transfer to an exterior decorating job. But in a way he was right – the rugs and cushions did have a softening effect. It reminded me of a friend who recently moved into a new house and didn’t love the landscaping. She found the materials, design and planting unforgiving and uninviting. She said the whole thing was desperately trendy and made her want to rush out and buy a garden gnome.
