Accessorize all areas

Anyone who has been to one of the Royal Horticultural Society flower shows will know just how many accessories there are out there for the garden. Essentially though accessories are the finishing touches to a garden, the little things that personalise it and make it look, feel and function the way you want it to.

Some will be purchased after lots of consideration, others on the spur of the moment, some will be essential, others purely frivolous and some will cost hundreds of pound while others will cost nothing.

Take a seat

Possibly the single most important accessory in a garden is furniture, as a garden does not really feel complete without it. Not only can it represent a substantial outlay but the style you choose will also have a significant impact on the feel of the garden. Where space allows different furniture can be used to give a different feel to the different ‘rooms’ of a garden. A classic solid teak or contemporary rattan furniture set may have a permanent place on the main terrace, while an everyday bench near the back door will let you snatch a quick cup of tea in the morning sun before work.

Where space is at a premium folding tables and chairs earn their place, the classic deck chair or small café table that can be quickly and easily put away. And while well-built, classic timber or metal furniture will always have a place in the garden, plenty of fun can to be had with bright fabrics with director’s chairs, parasols or hammocks.

Food for thought

For more and more people eating outdoors is becoming a big part of the garden. Not so long ago that meant a barbeque, but nowadays there is far greater choice and something to suit every budget (and culinary ambition).

For those who like the classic bbq style there is now a huge range available from small, colourful spheres, to vast stainless steel workstations. There are though also plenty of options for those looking for something a little different. Outdoor ovens can make a wonderful focal point in a garden and should enable you to cook not only pizzas but also the Sunday roast. On a smaller scale firepits, chimineas and coal pots all have bags of charm.   

Lighten up

Lighting has a dramatic effect on the garden at night. But choosing the right light fittings can also add to the feel of the garden during the day. Stainless steel wall lights, a classic coach lamp or oriental lanterns all create very different feels.

Art in the garden

I have always been amazed by the effect a piece of sculpture can have on a garden. A simple stone ball resting on the corner of a terrace will have a presence far beyond its size. It will draw the eye and anchor the space. One person’s art though is another’s folly, and choices are inevitably very personal. Nothing more so, for instance, than objects collected from your travels. 

Ultimately accessories are about having fun and making your garden your own.

Avoid packing in so many that they are all competing for your attention. But choose items that will add to the ambience or character of the garden, and reflect your own sense of style.