Characteristics of modern gardens
The characteristics of each type of garden are dictated by many factors, which determine the design and implementation, such as space, the environment, the architectural elements that make up the house, and of course the taste. In certain spaces sober and simple styles can be well used, while other gardens need elegance and accessories to enhance the exterior appearance of the house.
Compared to traditional gardens, modern gardens are usually created in spaces that are not very large, where the right balance between beauty and functionality is sought. The management of the spaces is regulated through the separation of the areas with walls or hedges.
This procedure does not always follow principles of functionality, but sometimes it is a matter of aesthetic choices.
Plants are usually arranged in a straight line to give a certain idea of order, but some designers prefer to customize the environment, referring to the surrounding natural environment.
In both cases, these two settings determine the very aesthetics of the garden, where a shaded area must be cut out. The choice of the shadow zone and the installation of the plants and architectural components is made according to symmetrical rules, which are never random.
Access to the garden is indicated where possible by an alley, and when space does not allow it, an entrance is created, which harmonizes the space adjacent to the house.
Like all gardens, the choice of plants, trees and flowers must be well taken care of. Our plants catalogue can help you, for example, to choose the best plants and trees for your modern garden.
Provided that each geographical area prefers native species or species that are well adapted to the various climates, another important factor to take into account is the space. The modern garden is functional and is designed to live it with maximum comfort, thus avoiding filling it with vegetation. Slender fruit plants are preferred and spaces dedicated to succulent plants or dwarf palms are created.
It is good to leave enough space between plant and plant and alternate the species.
Hedge plants are used to define the perimeter, although even evergreen trees can offer a viable alternative.
Depending on the season, flowers can be planted to give a touch of colour to the garden, particularly at the corners and in areas that demand greater enhancement.
Even the smallest modern garden must have architectural elements (e.g. landscape architecture) or furniture. These should not stifle the environment, but rather harmonise with it. This includes small floors on which to place deckchairs or hammocks, but also small statues or elegant fountains. The predominant elements are wood and natural stone, which harmonize with any style.
Here, too, it is important to distance the elements as much as possible and to give up certain furnishing products in favour of larger spaces.
Lighting and garden illumination are a decisive factor.
To be able to enjoy this part of the house even at night, they must always illuminate the places where you walk and the relaxation area. Ideal are the spotlights on the ground, but on the market there are many products, which we’ll meet every need.
Ideas for a modern garden
In recent years, numerous proposals for model gardens have been presented, much appreciated and suitable for different situations. More and more frequently these gardens are created on balconies, roofs and terraces, in order to create green spaces between the urban gray. They are usually limited spaces, which must be well thought out and created by works of art.
They also have special functions because they promote the sound and thermal insulation of buildings, and actively combat smog. Sometimes they are designed horizontally and are composed of green walls, capable of holding aromatic plants, creepers and other small shrubs through a covered structure.
The eco-sustainable component is dominant in these spaces, as is the need to recover green spaces in an intelligent and functional way. One of the possibilities to create a modern garden in the absence of space is to design it with a Zen style. This solution is also very appreciated for larger spaces thanks to its aesthetic impact with simplicity and sobriety.
Designed on the basis of Japanese tradition, the Zen garden with its oriental lines balances spaces in a natural way, ensuring a sense of harmony and peace.
Relaxation, contemplation and serenity are the three principles on which they are inspired. They are characterized by many stones, mostly white or with warm shades, low and green plants and the presence of water. Small fountains, ponds and ponds are perfectly integrated in the room, making it a very refined place. The garden will be crossed by paths in gravel or sand and portions of the area used for the creation of plays of light and shadow.
In the Japanese style, some architects propose therapeutic gardens. This style includes the introduction of elements that promote the correct psycho-physical recovery. They are characterized by the presence of benches and deck chairs that stimulate the back while you are at rest or portions of the garden with special plants and stones, which stimulates the circulation. These structures also have other properties. Plants that give off strong odours in various seasons are preferred and can be used to prepare herbal teas and elixirs. Few flowers are present, especially those with bright colors, in favor of a more sober and minimal structure.
Another “fashion” in vogue today are the vertical gardens. A vertical garden allows you to have plants vertically on the walls and walls of your space, whether inside or outside. In this way you can save space, and still have a garden in your home, giving green and bright colors to the walls of the house.
Costs for the construction of a modern garden
A modern garden has a very variable price range, depending on the style, architectural accessories, type of plants and other variables.
Since it cannot leave anything to chance, it must first be designed and then built. These two phases are essential and have different costs. Everyone can create their own garden, just taste and attention, but for medium or large spaces it is preferable to contact an architect, a professional in the field.
The costs for the design phase of the garden are a few hundred euros. The larger the area for the garden, the higher the price. It is not just a question of requesting a quote, but it is a real science made up of calculations and experience.
The design includes different services that can vary the price a lot. If the project is realized on paper it will cost less than a 3D design. Before the final project, however, it is necessary to take into account the inspection, any external advice and all necessary preliminary studies.
The complexity of the project and the aspects related to its implementation cover most of the cost. In fact, it is necessary to take into account all the changes necessary for the preparation of the ground, including the possible use of specific machinery or specialized companies.
Every garden needs the right irrigation. It is possible to do it manually in small spaces, but for convenience it is always recommended to install a good system, which allows the proper rationalization of water. This expense allows in many situations a significant saving on the bill, such as the choice to install LED light fixtures or that are recharged with solar energy.
The cost of plants is not very high. Usually it is the same company that buys them through trusted nurseries, but you can decide to provide for the purchase yourself. This is the item of the most limited budget, which grows exponentially if you intend to install valuable plants such as olive trees or other expensive varieties. There are a few factors that can significantly raise the price.
Sometimes there is a need for excavations, walls and other architectural elements, which require the intervention of masons or specialized companies. This does not apply in particular to medium-large spaces. All modern gardens are equipped with a floor, made of porphyry and wood.
Fountains and other elements have average costs. there are many at a good price, but they must be connected to a hydraulic system. If not present, how the electrical system must be installed.
Usually the average cost of a small modern garden is a few thousand euros, but this figure varies depending on the style you intend to adopt and the accessories you prefer.