Outdoor Areas

June 15, 2025 – Published in Design & Decor Spring-Summer 2022 issue

Turn your outdoor space into a classic English garden

Words Shirley Jobson

There is surely nothing more charming than the quaint gardens that adjoin English homes. Meticulously shaped hedges, thick shrubs, fragrant rose bushes, and other typical features add an enchanting atmosphere like no other. 

Have you ever wished to reproduce these elements in your own garden? There is no better way to do this than to have a closer look at an authentic English garden.

The Romans are said to have introduced English gardens when they invaded Britain in the first century AD. Symmetry was a fundamental feature at that time, with grassy lawns and neat hedges interspersed by straight gravel paths. Through the ages, however, the more formal design expanded to include a wilder style, with winding paths and more natural-looking landscapes.

This means that your garden may follow any style you prefer, even by adding a bit of both according to your tastes. Nevertheless, even if you alternate flower beds and bushes to make the garden terrain appear naturally haphazard, make sure your hedges and borders are neatly shaped.

Planting herbs and vegetables among the various flowers and shrubs is also a common aspect of English gardens. This may, in fact, be a useful feature for your own outdoor space. Choose your favourite herbs and local vegetables, and cultivate your personal kitchen growing area.

Typical gardens in England include roses, of course, as well as a variety of perennial and annual plants. Perennials live for several years and bloom each year. Examples of these include Hydrangea, Hibiscus, and Phlox. Annual flowers, such as Marigolds and Pansies, are seasonal, but their blooming period lasts longer than perennials, and they add bright colours to gardens.

It is, of course, up to you to decide which plants to select for your garden. You must also take the Maltese climate into account when choosing what to grow. Do not be afraid to experiment with different plants and colours. Naturally, you do not need to stop there. If you wish to give your garden that classic English touch, there are various design elements and accessories you may add, no matter its size. 

Make seating plans for your little outdoors.

If you enjoy relaxing in the fresh air with a nice cuppa or entertaining guests on a frequent basis, a good-quality, outdoor furniture set is a must. Items you may opt for include various styles of benches and chairs, tables for all purposes, as well as hanging chairs and swing seats.

A cosy loveseat is a pretty addition to any garden, offering a romantic seating area for couples—or for curling up with a good book in peace and comfort.

Set up a covered corner of your garden with a small table and a couple of chairs for peaceful tête-à-têtes or intimate alfresco dining. This may also be used as a shaded area for you to enjoy the outdoors whilst sheltered from the elements. 

Make sure all your open-air furnishings are durable and strong. Go for materials that will withstand intense heat, moisture, wind, and local climate conditions. Shop around for eco-friendly and recyclable materials to adorn your garden and, simultaneously, safeguard the planet. 

Connect the interior and exterior with a conservatory.

It may serve as an extension to your home, or as an extra room for relaxing in. Whatever its purpose, a conservatory is the perfect link between your home and garden. It is filled with natural light and, therefore, always eco-friendly. Furthermore, you will be able to sit in it and enjoy the outdoor scenery, regardless of the weather or external temperatures.

A conservatory may be used as a dining area, study, or den. Make sure the furniture inside it can also withstand heat. To counter the hot temperatures in Malta, cover the top part with shades or opt for reflective glass. For those cold winter nights, add a couple of decorative rugs or invest in a wood-burning stove to keep your feet toasty and warm.

Embellish your conservatory with soft lighting, flower wreaths, and other home décor accessories. Add a table and chairs to use it as a dining area. Alternatively, create a cosy den with views of your garden by placing one or two soft couches with lots of cushions—or even a few comfortable bean bags.

Accessorise your garden the English way

The little touches you add to your open area will not only make it look more authentic, but will also brighten up the space with original ornaments and innovative features. Here is a look at the most common elements found in our little English garden.

• Enhance your gravel pathways or lawn with concrete ‘stepping stones’, painted to imitate tree trunks.

• Distribute an assortment of planters and ornamental pots for individuality.

• Give your garden a cutting-edge look by placing statues in different corners.

• A water bowl provides hydration for birds visiting your garden.

• Other figurines, such as this toad and owl, add variety and character.

• Go for unusual elements among your greenery, like this wooden toadstool.

• Adorn your garden walls with decorative features, such as these dragonflies.

Whatever you decide to do with your garden, giving it the English touch is always a winner. 

Then, all you have to do is put the kettle on and indulge in a lovely cup of English tea!