At House Beautiful, we’ve always championed the idea of seeing outdoor spaces as continuations of our indoor living areas. This philosophy encourages not only the efficient utilization of every square inch, particularly in tighter spaces, but also the cultivation of areas dedicated to our favorite activities—be it gardening, picnicking, or hosting lively outdoor gatherings. Naturally, it follows that the interior design styles we adore should spill over into our outdoor spaces, marrying the comfort and style of the indoors with the freshness and openness of the outdoors. Among these styles, one stands out for its current popularity and timeless appeal: maximalism.
Celebrated for its bold embrace of colors, patterns, and textures, maximalism proves to be a seamlessly adaptable aesthetic from the cozy corners of the living room to the expansive realms of the garden. For those intrigued by this vibrant trend, we present a variety of maximalist garden designs that span the spectrum from tropical to tonal, offering everyone a way to incorporate a touch of extravagance into their outdoor spaces.
1. A Symphony of Heights and Hues
At Virginia’s 90th Historic Garden Week, the Victorian-style Grace Arents Garden within Richmond’s Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden showcased an exquisite arrangement of flora. Here, flowers of varying heights and colors come together to create a rich tapestry of textures and tones, proving that diversity in height is as impactful as the palette used.
2. A Riot of Rainbow Brights
The gardens of Oak Spring, the Virginia country retreat of renowned horticulturist Bunny Mellon, are a testament to the joy of color. Here, tulips of every conceivable color burst forth in a vibrant display against the backdrop of the property’s iconic whitewashed basket house, creating a jubilant and colorful spectacle.
3. Mini Maximalism for Every Space
Maximalism isn’t confined to sprawling estates. At Oak Spring, a small corner is transformed through the use of antique planters filled with variably tall flowers, demonstrating that texture and depth can be achieved in more compact spaces. This approach offers versatility and mobility, allowing for rearrangements to suit changing weather or occasions.
4. Deliberately Overgrown Charm
The gardens of Hidcote Manor in Gloucestershire embrace an enchanting, overgrown look reminiscent of an English fairy tale. Here, the lush foliage of bushes and climbing vines creates a mesmerizing, low-maintenance landscape that feels both wild and intentionally designed.
5. Geometry in Bloom
Seaton Delaval Hall’s formal garden in Northumberland, England, presents an intriguing take on pattern play outdoors. The intricate boxwood parterre exemplifies how structured geometric patterns can introduce a sophisticated visual element to garden design, merging the artistry of landscaping with the precision of architectural geometry.
6. The Timeless Appeal of Trellises
Both indoors and out, trellises are experiencing a resurgence, and for good reason. These latticed structures not only add intriguing patterns to the garden but also support the growth of climbing plants, such as the lush English grandiflora roses favored by landscape designer Ed Hollander, enhancing vertical space with floral beauty.
Maximalist gardens are more than just a trend; they are a celebration of abundance, creativity, and personal expression. By adopting elements of this exuberant style, you can transform your outdoor space into a vibrant haven that reflects your unique aesthetic and love for the lushness of life. Whether through the strategic layering of colors and textures, the incorporation of geometric patterns, or the embrace of structured chaos, maximalist gardens invite us to rethink the boundaries between indoors and out, encouraging a bold and imaginative approach to garden design.