Quick Outdoor Makeover : Garden Gate
- I am all about quick and easy makeovers inside and, now that spring is here, outside too...
- I recently helped out a friend with a simple project - taking an existing garden gate that had seen better days and bringing a new entrance way to their garden. I wanted it to be welcoming and much more visually appealing...
- Here is what we started with...I removed the gate and posts first...I love moving stones around - so I dismantled the existing, loose stonewall and trimmed back the overgrown plantings nearby to allow room for a new gated arbor...
- Here is the quick sketch I did standing in the garden...
- The new gated arbor would allow for a more formal entrance to their garden - but also act as a way to create "outdoor rooms" that they can enjoy by separating spaces...In this case, intimate garden area and open lawn area...
- My goal - with the arbor structure - was to plant some lush vines that could grow over during the summer months...Vines are a favorite plant of mine because they add visual interest to a porch, arbor or pergola...The more unkept they are the better...Wisteria and Dutchman's Pipe are two favorites...
- Next, the project would be about reworking the existing stones into a new, loose stonewall on either side of the arbor...It's a great workout but also a very interesting process building a casual stonewall...
- Lastly, I transplanted some existing shrubs into place to frame up the entrance...
- The fun part about spring is that it can look so bleak at the start. Then, within weeks, Mother Natures takes over and everything is lush once again...
- Here is what it looks like now...Vines are going into place soon...The choice: Dutchman's Pipe...
- So as you can see - we were able to give this area an instant makeover in just a matter of a few hours on a weekend...This is the kind of project I enjoy because you can see your results in a short amount of time...That motivates you to want to do more...
- With the vines and some natural mulch to finish off the planting beds...The outdoor room is ready to enjoy...
- The best part is that this is something you can do yourself...If I can do it - you can!
4 comments:
Hi Stephen
What a wonderful makeover. I enjoy so looking at the new arbour. And with the lush fern. Its instantly appealing.
Great point-de-vue with the arbour.
I have planted hedera up an arbour in my garden. It also very stylish, and make a great transition into my sons part of the garden.
This is exactly the kind of weekend project I can handle! Love the end result. Thanks Stephen!!!
Your blog is such an inspiring place...I just bought your book and now know about your website and blog. I love garden gates too and this one with vines growing up on it will be perfection. You must post a picture of that.
I want you as a friend! My husband and I would just let you do your makeover magic in any place you wanted in our home. You make it all seem so easy. Thanks for taking the time to share some real ideas that real people can do.
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