Leonard Williamson
From striking steps lined with contemporary planters to sunken pools and soft, shrub-covered slopes, when it comes to these stylish designs, the possibilities are almost endless. Sure, creating distinct levels is a go-to solution for difficult, awkward-shaped plots, but tiered garden ideas aren't merely functional. A dramatic way to define zones, tiers are a must-have if you're after interesting garden layout ideas that will elevate your plot (literally). It may be subtle, but a stone step and retaining wall is a timeless approach to tiered garden ideas (Image credit: Douglas Gibb/Future) Well, if you're dealing with a hilly plot to start with, then levelling it off into distinct zones gives a much more defined structure. For instance, borders and beds arranged across levels really helps to show them off, especially if you add good garden lighting.
Incorporate your favorite paving ideas into your levels for a cohesive finish that feels polished and fuss-free. A hidden seating spot adds a sense of discovery to this plot (Image credit: Colin Poole/Future) Tiered garden ideas are a great way to create intrigue in a plot, as they break up the line of sight. Here, wide stone steps are set at an angle, and, upon reaching the top, a cozy nook– perfect for sitting with friends – is revealed. Add multi-functional steps to your deck as part of your tiered garden ideas (Image credit: Unsplash/Im3rd Media) With a rich mahogany hue, it offers a cabin-in-the-woods vibe that complements the treetop surrounding beautifully.
By giving it a level all to itself, it feels tucked away and exclusive – the perfect place for a relaxing swim at the end of the day. Leaning against the end of this pool with a view of fragrant rose bushes certainly sounds like heaven to us.
A sunken design like this offers a sense of privacy from the house and a luxurious, spa-like vibe. Surround with pale, rendered walls to help reflect the water's soothing shimmer in the midday sun.
Meanwhile, a cleverly integrated bench adds a contemporary twist – simply boost the comfy factor with a patterned cushion or two. Tones of grey contrast beautifully against bright green ferns and grasses (Image credit: Future)
Not only do they provide a contemporary look, but they offer the perfect complementary backdrop to the vibrant green hues of the leafy foliage, allowing them to shine. White walls either side help to bounce light around the area and make the space feel larger. Instead of carving out hard landscaping solutions for your tiered garden ideas, you might prefer to go a little more natural with soft slopes.
Large hydrangeas, flame-hued crocosmias, an evergreen hedge, and teetering hollyhocks draw the eye upwards and merge the lines between lawn, border, and architecture in a seamless fashion. They say that soil in these conditions is often poor, so be sure to prepare it properly, removing all weeds and adding well-rotted manure or good quality compost where possible. Rustic materials and a decorative archway give this garden tons of charm (Image credit: Colin Poole/Future)
In keeping with the country-cottage vibe is an ornate metal arch, ready to support a climbing rose as it establishes. It's a gorgeous way to separate the two zones of a verdant lawn and a gravelled space for subtly raised beds and garden buildings (this blue-hued beauty has got us swooning). Make your hard landscaping provide more than one function for your tiered garden ideas (Image credit: James Merrell/Future)
This triangular plot is given a new lease of life with the use of tropical palm prints, playful flamingos, and a hot pink and lush green color palette. The elevated lawn is bordered by a clever use of hard landscaping, whereby a retaining wall doubles up as a permanent seating solution which effortlessly combines with steps. Firstly, it provides a stunning view of the planting from all levels of the house, explains the Bowles & Wyer (opens in new tab) team.
