THE GARDEN DESIGN TRENDS WE'RE SEEING IN 2019
With more people seeking to close the divide between outdoor and indoor living, the garden design trends we are seeing in 2019 are all about creating this connection. From archways to outdoor wallpaper and sculptural planters, these are the garden design trends you can expect to see a lot more of this year.
1. Colour palettes
There is a lot of softening happening in garden design, and this is coming through most noticeably in colour palettes, with pastel pinks, greens and yellows forming the basis of more colour selections across hardscapes, plants and furnishings.
Of course, no annual colour guide is complete without Pantone’s colour of the year. For 2019, the chosen hue is Living Coral, which Pantone describes as “an animated, life-affirming shade of orange, with golden undertones”.
How to apply the trend
Introduce this colour palette using accessories, feature walls and furnishings. These softer colours pair well with green foliage and add a contemporary feel when contrasted with earthen materials including stone, terracotta and timber.
3,729 Likes, 146 Comments - THE CALILE HOTEL (@thecalilehotel) on Instagram: "Retreat to your private rooftop terrace in The Calile Suite. #TheCalile #JamesSt #Brisbane"
1,730 Likes, 12 Comments - THE CALILE HOTEL (@thecalilehotel) on Instagram: "Because successful events are best hosted here, at The Calile. #TheCalile #JamesSt #Brisbane"
2. Architecture and hardscapes
Organic shapes have taken hold; not just in garden design but also architecture. This trend can be best seen in The Calile hotel that opened to wide acclaim late last year. Modern archways, stone walkways, curved balconies and arched windows have all been used to soften the building and draw people out of their rooms to engage with the rest of the hotel.
This year you can expect to see a lot more of this style of design: think Moroccan-style archways, rounded doors, and curved details in paths and hardscapes.
Design: The Small Garden Photo: ©TobyScott
How to apply the trend
In outdoor spaces, details like arched gates are a great way to apply this trend. (Be mindful to integrate curved lines in a way that complements any pre-existing architecture in your home; in existing spaces with clean lines, experiment with elements such as sculptural planters to add softness.)
4,940 Likes, 37 Comments - A Designers Mind (@adesignersmind) on Instagram: "Sometimes the simplest things are the best... . Project by @studio_brentlee"
3. Plants and planters
The trend of indoor greenery continues, with plants and planters becoming focal points that are considered during the design phase of a project, rather than being an afterthought. Expect to see plants better integrated into interiors, like this green wall we recently installed.
When it comes to planters, designers are getting bolder. Gather Co and Robert Plumb have each released sculptural ranges that make a grand statement both indoors and outdoors.
How to apply the trend
This trend is all about impact, so look for larger, more mature plants that will make a statement and complement the style of your planter. For a list of plants that bring texture and life to interiors, see our indoor plants guide.
Design: Robert Plumb Photo: Prue Ruscoe
273 Likes, 10 Comments - Gather Co (@gathercoaustralia) on Instagram: "Handcrafted and dripping in history, our indigenous collection by Andile Dyalvane is now available...."
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4. Biophilic design
Biophilic design is a really important part of what we do, and something we have been talking about since launching The Small Garden. So we were really excited to see Elle Décor name biophilia as a design trend for 2019.
Biophilic design is the practice of integrating natural elements such as fresh air, plants, sunlight and running water into the built environment. As humans crave more exposure to nature, designers are looking for ways to maintain our connection with the natural world.
In terms of garden design, that means more emphasis on linking indoor and outdoor spaces, more indoor greenery and a greater focus on outdoor living. Internal courtyards like this one we recently completed in Chelmer are one way homeowners are now bringing nature inside.
Design: The Small Garden Photo: ©TobyScott
How to apply the trend
Look for ways to transform outdoor areas into functional living spaces and focus on introducing natural elements into your interiors.
5. Outdoor furnishings
Thankfully, the days of generic outdoor furniture from the hardware store are long gone. With more people embracing outdoor living, there is greater demand for outdoor decor. That means you now have more options than ever before when it comes to personalising outdoor spaces with accessories, art and even outdoor wallpaper .
The use of sustainable pieces and natural materials (think timber, jute and terracotta) is also continuing this year, making us feel grounded and connected to the earth.
How to apply the trend
Think about how you wish to use your outdoor space and furnish accordingly; for example, choose large comfortable chairs and side tables for lounge areas. Only ever invest in furnishings designed for outdoor living, as these pieces are made with fabrics and materials that will withstand exposure to sun, wind and water.
Design: Claire Stevens Interior Design & The Small Garden Photo: ©TobyScott
