How to bring playfulness into your garden, even as a grown-up
Whether it’s relaxing in a hammock or gathering friends around a fire pit, the childhood feelings of magic and play in the garden are equally important for adults. But how can we bring an element of play into our gardens while maintaining the feel of a grown-up space?
Fire!
Whether you are 10 or 60 years old, there’s something special about sitting around a fire. Fire pits are a favourite as you can fit them into the smallest seating areas. They can also lengthen the time you spend in your garden, especially in the winter months.
Above: A fire pit surrounded by curved seating creates a perfect space for socialising.
Outdoor cooking
Whether on a simple BBQ grill or in an authentic wood-burning pizza oven, there’s something magical about cooking food outside. A good garden design will fully integrate your cooking area so that it’s not just an afterthought.
Hanging seating
While a full playground swing may not appeal to many grown ups, the gentle rock of a hammock can feel just right for relaxing with a book. Other options to consider include a seat hung from a tree or cocoon chair that comes with its own hanger.
Outdoor art
If we think of our gardens more as extensions of our homes, it makes sense that we would want to enjoy art outside too. There are many artists creating art specifically for garden settings, including these enchanting pieces by British artist Jane Flint. Outdoor sculptures can be made of ceramics, stone, metal or plant-based material such as woven willow.
Above: Outdoor ceramic sculptures by Jane Flint. She has created a range of “totem figures” based on different animals. Her inspiration comes from children’s stories, toys, historic and cultural artefacts. Available from _form. Gallery, Nailsworth.
Water, water, water
From large natural swimming pools to tinkling fountains, water in any form adds an element of playfulness to a garden. Here are a few examples from our clients’ gardens:
Above: This large natural swimming pool is cleaned by bio-filters and constructed using insulated panels, meaning that it requires minimal heating and absolutely no chemicals to maintain.
Left: A cast concrete water trough brings the water lilies to eye level.
Right: A Corten steel fountain is softened with planting.
Trampolines
Yes, you read it. As long as you check the weight limit of the trampoline there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a bounce. It’s a great form of exercise too. Sunken trampolines work well if you prefer to keep yours a little more concealed.
Dens for grown ups
Do you have fond memories of playing in a tree house, den or tent as a child? We forget that the same feeling of escape and sanctuary can be felt by grown ups. Shepherds' huts have grown in popularity in recent years as well as garden offices and kitchens.
Above: This garden building offers a wide view into the landscape beyond. It provides a cosy space in the winter months for family sleepovers and film nights, as well as room for cooking and dining in the summer months.
Let children lead the play
The quickest way to enjoy playfulness as a grown up is to spend time with children and to let them take the lead. Allowing your imagination to run free and creating fun spaces for children to enjoy can be so much fun for adults too. Think mini sandpits, water stations, DIY tree houses, and elaborate bug hotels.
Hopefully you are now feeling inspired to try reintroducing childhood pleasures into your thoroughly grown-up garden!
