Which garden style suits you best?
Everyone has their own taste, especially when it comes to gardens. If you are designing your own garden, it can help to first decide which atmosphere you want to create. Which style suits you best, and which paving fits that style? Garden architects generally distinguish four main garden styles:
Garden styles
- The formal garden
- The country garden
- The modern garden
- The natural garden
These garden styles are based on well-known examples from garden architecture. They provide useful inspiration when choosing the layout, planting, and materials for your own garden.
The formal garden
The formal garden is based on the classic French Baroque garden, with the gardens of the Palace of Versailles being the most famous example. Formal gardens are primarily designed to be pleasing to the eye. They have an elegant and sophisticated appearance. Formal gardens usually have a symmetrical design, with a central axis. The central axis leads the eye past a fountain or statue and into the distance. On either side of the axis are rectangular flower beds, bordered by low boxwood hedges. These are then planted with tulips, roses, or lavender. The paths are straight and often finished with decorative paving. Pruned trees, pergolas, and large flowerpots work well in this design.
The country garden
At the end of the eighteenth century, the English landscape style emerged as a response to the strict formality of traditional gardens. People were craving a little more nature. Gardens and parks featured round ponds, winding paths, and partially hidden gazebos. Lawns interchanged with groups of trees and shrubs. In the English cottage garden, flower borders play a key role, with abundant combinations of perennials providing colour throughout the year.
The modern garden
At the beginning of the twentieth century, a new movement emerged that focused on simplicity, functionality, and clear design. English gardens were found to be too romantic. The function of the garden became more important than purely decorative design. As such, gardens began to take on a practical layout, constructed with geometric shapes. Dutch garden architect Mien Ruys was the founder of this garden style. Her designs are clear and simple, with square water features and planted areas. These tight shapes offer space for natural planting. Raised borders, large garden slabs, and ornamental grasses are characteristic of this style.
The natural garden
Most people today live in urban areas. To bring nature closer to home, many transform their gardens into an oasis for plants and animals. They opt for flowers that attract bees and butterflies, and for shrubs and trees that attract birds. A natural garden needs a natural layout, with gradual transitions and corners where animals can hide. It is also important to avoid too much paving, so that rainwater can seep into the ground easily. Nest boxes, old tree stumps, and a stacked wall of bricks can make a natural garden complete.
Find inspiration
The different garden styles have their roots in history. They reflect the way people use and experience their outdoor space. Do you want a garden with a chic appearance, or a place where children can play? Would you like to relax in a country-style setting, or is bringing nature closer more important to you? These historical garden styles provide an inspiring starting point for creating your own garden.
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