From Garden Domes to Plant Pots: 8 Easy Ways to Turn Any Garden into a Relaxing Oasis

It’s no secret that al fresco living is good for the soul, so you might as well do it in style. That’s why we have come up with our Top 8 Garden Inspirations to help you create your own, special oasis. From using up old jars and tins, to installing the perfect garden dome, we have the garden design hack for you.

If the past year has taught us anything, it’s that self-care is more important than ever. With restricted travel opportunities, the spaces that we inhabit – both our homes and gardens - have become fundamental elements in our lives. The change in the seasons means that attention has turned to the outdoors: your garden should function as a place of relaxation, serenity, and joy.

1. Choose Colourful Plant Pots

Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most effective. Getting creative with your garden ceramics and containers is the ideal way to inject a splash of personality into your outdoor space - without breaking the bank. Pots can be arranged just about anywhere: place them on patios and lawns, or even display them in an outdoor shelving structure.

If you have left it too late to plant colourful plants to bloom for spring and summer, then choosing bright and bold pots will bring that much-needed vibrancy to your garden. Pick colours and themes that bring you joy; Hypedome recommends deep blues and turquoises for the ultimate serene atmosphere. However, this doesn’t mean we don’t support unleashing your playful side! These ceramic sneakers would be ideal for a hint of quirkiness.

2. Play with Soft Furnishings

The sophistication well-chosen soft furnishings bring to a garden is easy to underestimate. Interior and garden expert Melanie Jade from melaniejadedesign.com, gives a great tip on where to start when choosing textiles for a garden lounge or seating area:

“The best outdoor textiles to start with are some cushions. You could either bring some of your cushions from inside out into your garden or you could buy some outdoor cushions which will be able to withstand rain showers when they pop out of nowhere! This is the best way to inject some colour into your garden and you can easily mix and match with bench seat cushions, tassel fabrics and cushions for the floor.”

Hypedome can think of nothing better than snuggling beneath the stars under a luxurious blanket with a great book.

3. Bring the Indoors Outside

If the idea of a softly-furnished garden room or lounge tickles your fancy, then a garden pod may be what you’re searching for. Cosier than a traditional gazebo, garden domes are becoming the go-to solution for design-conscious garden owners who want to bring the inside out.

This is the best option for anyone looking to make the most out of their outdoor space: garden pods can be used as second dining rooms, sitting rooms, offices, and even gyms. The transparency of the dome’s crystal-clear material means that maximum daylight is guaranteed. At night, you can sit back, relax, and gaze at the stars. We recommend browsing our line of garden domes to discover how you can transform your garden into a cherished place.

4. Make a Garden Gallery

Who says that art needs to be kept indoors? If you are looking to explore your creative side, then painting a mural onto an old and tired wall is a unique way to freshen up your space. This would also make a fun garden activity!

Coordinate the mural’s colour palette with your pots and soft furnishings to create a sense of sophistication and unity. If painting a wall sounds like too much of a leap, then consider decorating wooden panels and hanging them from your fence or wall instead.

5. Changing Spaces

Reassessing how your garden works with your life is a great way of enhancing how you use the space available. Is your patio really the best place for a seating area? Where are the best views in your garden? Does your layout provide scope for a variety of levels and texture? Alexandra Campbell, author of The Middle-Sized Garden says:

“The most popular place for a table and chairs is the terrace or patio just outside the back door. It’s also the most practical place for eating, because you won’t have so far to carry plates, glasses and food. But it’s also worth thinking about placing a bench or another seating area elsewhere to give you a different view of the garden.”

A garden dome is an excellent way of adding a new dimension to your garden’s layout and utility. Pods can be used as a relaxing hideaway, tucked in-between foliage, or as dramatic structures that are the focus of your design-scheme.

6. Reflect and Unwind

Mirrors work especially well outdoors. They utilise the natural light, brightening shady spots, and give smaller spaces a more expansive feel. This is a brilliant idea if you have an old, worn mirror hanging about the house: a weathered appearance gives a patio a beautiful vintage vibe.

7. Re-use and Grow

An ethical way of repurposing old tins and jars is to use them as interesting planting vessels. Decorate your garden pod with mis-matched recyclables for a sustainable, eclectic aesthetic.

8. Feed Your Senses

Whilst the tendency is to focus on how a garden looks, scent should not be neglected. When things smell good, we are brought a deeper sense of well-being. Garden designer Rachel Bailey says to think about when you will be most likely to enjoy the scents of your garden:

“Know the time of day that the scent is likely to be the strongest. For example, Lonicera periclymenum or honeysuckle is pollinated by moths so will give off its scent in the evening.”

We hope we have inspired you to make the most out of your garden. Here at Hypedome, we are passionate about transforming gardens into unique, exceptional spaces. Get in touch to discuss your garden aims, or to inquire about our range of beautiful garden domes.