Choosing materials & products
Every outdoor space—from a wild mess of scrub to an urban concrete box—has the potential to be a beautiful, functional garden.
The choices you make with your hardscape are just as important as your plant selections in achieving this.
Through innovative design and clever use of materials and products, we can all create external living spaces that are an extension of our home. But, between the myriad of interesting new materials and products available, and the innovative twists on traditional materials and products, how do you go about making your selections?
Step 1: Your needs and style
There are two main things to consider when you’re thinking about hardware for your outdoor space—firstly, what suits your needs and secondly, what suits your own personal style and the style of your home.
You will need to consider all your surfaces—
walls,
floors
and
overheads—and how these work together. Any material imaginable, as long as it withstands the elements, can be a part of the hardscape: from more traditional materials like timber, bricks, stone, cement, wire and tiles to the more innovative like river stones, ceramics, stainless-steel, polished stone and recycled timber.
You will also need to consider integral elements such as
lighting styles and
paint colours, textures and finishes, and if you want to integrate
water—by way of a water
feature, pool or spa—what form this will take.
Furniture and accessories, including
pots and planters,
art and sculpture, and
decorations, personalise your space and are as much apart of the hardware as the other items mentioned above.
The list at the right describes each of these main considerations, and outlines the different types of materials and products available under each category. Understanding what these can offer you in terms of functionality, finish or effect will help you approach your materials and products selection like a pro!
Step 2: Environmental considerations
With each design I create and product selection I make, I always favour the environmentally responsible option. I ask myself where does this material come from? What sort of environmental certification does it carry? And what’s the best way to use this product to reduce the impact on our precious planet?
I am constantly surprised—and heartened—to see the quality and amount of products available that have taken environmental impact into consideration. If you dig a little deeper, it's likely that you will always find a more environmentally sustainable option.
Step 3: After that, the rule is there is no rule!
Your outdoor room is all about you and your own personal needs, so don’t be afraid to try something new and unusual. Experiment with the materials that frame the garden, define the areas for different activities, and elevate the landscape and featured plants. Let your creative juices flow—this is where the real fun begins.
For more information, pick up a copy of my book
The Source Book – Second Edition, which covers hundreds of materials and products for outdoor spaces and
is a must-have for design ideas and selecting materials for your outdoor space.
Buy a copy of
The Source Book – Second Edition from the jamiedurie.com bookshop now.
