British people love nothing more than donning a pair of shorts at the first sight of the summer sun. If this sounds like you, it might be time to start thinking about transforming your garden into an idyllic space in time for summer. However, before you get started, learn about the hidden obstacles to consider when redesigning your garden.
Planning Permission
Homeowners might make the big mistake of thinking they can do whatever they like within their garden. Yet, in some circumstances, you may need to apply for planning permission. For example, you will need planning permission from a local planning office to add a stylish log cabin into your outdoor area if it exceeds certain dimensions, or if you plan to extend your home. So, don’t erect the garden buildings until you have received approval or are confident it isn’t needed.
Plants and Hedges
When chosen well, plants and hedges can be a beautiful addition to your garden. For example, they can become a focal point whilst maintain a barrier within the home. However, some plants and hedges can grow quickly in size and scale, so they can obstruct views or block access to certain parts of your outdoor space. Think carefully about your garden’s style and look for low growing plants, which will never overtake your garden or obstruct your view.
Garden Balance
Unless you are a professional gardener, you may not have considered the importance of achieving balance in garden design. It is, however, important to take both the size and shape of your garden into consideration before you get to work. For example, you must ensure the garden complements the style of your home, and you should also strive to create symmetry within the space to create a relaxing outdoor area. If you fail to plan for a formal or informal garden, you may have a mishmash of styles that will make you want to head back indoors.
Locate Piping
Buried pipes and cables may live underground, and the last thing you will want is to hit them with a spade when digging up your garden. If you plan to change grades or dig more than 18 inches deep in your garden, you must locate all underground utilities and pipes before you redesign your outdoor space. Contact your local utility providers to find out more about finding and marking any underground lines, which is a service often available for a small fee.
Lighting or Irrigation
You might not have plans for outdoor lighting or irrigation right now, but you could do a few years down the line. When digging up a garden, it might be a smart idea to lay down irrigation piping or electrical conduits, which should be placed 18 inches below ground and should feature either near bed edges or along pathways. Plumbing and wiring will therefore be simply to install in the future, and you will not have to dig up your entire garden to do so.