Garden Seating Nooks Worth Dreaming About
Whether it's a single bench or a romantic table for two under the trees, a secluded garden seating area can become a santuary you covet
Anyone who’s spent long hours working in the garden knows the pleasure that comes from a job well done. And there’s no better vantage point than a garden nook: a small, secluded spot in which to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labour. It can be under a big tree, in a corner under an arbour or even in a flower bed, where you can be surrounded by blooms (as well as their fragrance). Seating can be as simple as a rustic wooden bench or as nap inducing as a chaise with plump pillows. For dining alfresco, consider adding a bistro table and chairs.
It’s not a big project, as these nooks tend to be small and simple – so there’s still time to make a move before the cold weather comes. Here are some idyllic spots to inspire you to carve out your own garden hideaway.
It’s not a big project, as these nooks tend to be small and simple – so there’s still time to make a move before the cold weather comes. Here are some idyllic spots to inspire you to carve out your own garden hideaway.
With its drift of pale pink Eden climbing roses, this romantic corner is simply stunning. A rustic bench provides a place to sit, although it may be hard to concentrate with the intoxicating smell of all those blooms!
This sun-dappled spot, with its white canvas sling chairs and gravel patio, is all about the greenery. Note the different shades and textures, courtesy of the yew at the steps, the low hedge and the row of trees behind.
The perfect setting for coffee or a casual bite, this teak bistro table for two is surrounded by raised flower beds planted with cheerful yellow and orange marigolds. A pea gravel patio adds texture and firm footing for the table. To successfully install a patio like this, the designer points out, the key is to have a firm base (by tamping the soil underneath) and to use only a scattering of gravel.
This modern nook in San Francisco, with its single chair and table, features an artful array of plants displayed on stacked open shelves. The designer says it reminded him “of a cabinet of curiosities – in this case the collection is made of succulents and cacti.”
Sometimes creating a restful moment in the garden is as simple as tucking a teak Chippendale-style bench among the trees. Here a Cercidiphyllum japonicum (Katsura tree) shows off its autumn colours and puts out a subtle, sweet fragrance in the waning days of the season.
This moody blue wall, which sets off the plantings beautifully, is just part of the appeal of this small shaded space. Other pluses: the stone benches, charming statuary and lush plants.
Hidden against an ivy-covered white stucco wall, this pea-gravel-covered patio is just the spot for daydreaming. Garden visitors can settle in on one of these curvy, pillow-topped chaises, smell the climbing roses and enjoy the fluttering of the bamboo in the breeze.
Read more: How to Choose the Best Plants for a Small Garden
Read more: How to Choose the Best Plants for a Small Garden
Pathways of Grand Canyon flagstone meander through this spectacular garden outside of Chicago. Packed with rare and one-of-a-kind plants, this quiet spot, with its teak rockers, provides a chance to stop and admire the surroundings.
This hillside perch in Pasadena, California, complete with swoopy modern hammock, is surrounded by drought-tolerant succulents.
In the foreground is ornamental Aeonium ‘Sunburst’, whose variegated yellow and green rosette-like foliage looks just like flowers.
YOUR SAY
Do you have a garden nook? Why not share an image or two in the Comments!
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In the foreground is ornamental Aeonium ‘Sunburst’, whose variegated yellow and green rosette-like foliage looks just like flowers.
YOUR SAY
Do you have a garden nook? Why not share an image or two in the Comments!
MORE
Dream Spaces: Discover a Secret Garden of Your Own
How to Choose the Right Garden Edging for Your Outdoor Space
Ground Force: Top 10 Ground Covers for Your Garden
So Your Garden Style Is: Cottage
Read more: Top 10 Plants for Minimum Effort and Maximum Impact