A garden makeover can include a whole host of changes from new garden furniture to new potted plants to adding a garden wall or a DIY garden bar. However, a garden makeover on a budget will focus on achieving these changes cheaply using low-cost materials and clever solutions. By using budget garden ideas, you can turn your existing garden into a more functional and pretty space. This could, for example, mean adding cheap garden accessories, a fresh coat of paint to the garden, using affordable garden plants, inexpensive garden fencing or other cheap hard landscaping features.
To make your garden look new and save money, whatever your garden size, a good makeover will make a big difference without breaking the bank.
Editor’s Note [23.10.2024]:
Our original article “Garden Makeover on a Budget” was first published as long ago as February 2, 2010. Today we have made changes throughout the entire article including new sections and our twelve essential qualities of a garden makeover and seven new ideas.
12 essential qualities of any garden makeover
Turning your garden into an outdoor room requires thought and key elements. Here are twelve aspects to consider for a garden makeover:
- Budget-friendly - opt for cost-effective solutions to save money and get the look needed
- Creative ideas - add unique and quirky ideas that reflect you
- Durable materials - use long-lasting materials for furniture and accessories so it will last
- Focal points - add a garden wall or a DIY garden bar to draw the eye
- Functional design - make sure your makeover includes practical elements like seating and pots
- Good finishes - paint or prime for a fresh look in various areas of the garden, such as walls, sheds, planters and much more!
- Low maintenance plants - choose self-seeding plants and potted plants that are easy to care for
- Outdoor lighting - use solar lights to enhance the ambience and functionality of your outdoor areas
- Space planning - make the most of your small garden or larger outdoor area with clever planning
- Sustainable choices - choose environmentally friendly options like recycled materials and drought-resistant plants
- Textures - add different textures with accessories, raised beds and fencing
- Visual interest - add instant colour and interest with trailing plants, hanging baskets and accessories
How to do a garden makeover on a budget
You do not have to compromise on style or functionality when you are on a budget. Simple changes can make a big impact so you can have a new garden without breaking the bank.
The garden is increasingly being thought of as an additional room; an outdoor living space that is great for entertaining, relaxing in private tranquillity, or for playing and exploring. But all of these ideas can still be realised on a budget.
Now we’ll expand on the above points and have some ideas for a budget garden makeover.
We now go on to expand on some of the essential qualities mentioned above and develop some ideas to implement for a garden makeover on a budget.
The role of inexpensive garden fencing in your garden makeover
Fencing not only has a functional role in providing your garden with security, shelter and privacy; with a choice of heights and decorative trellis options, the garden dividers, fence panels and screens afford a wide range of decorative options. Even in small gardens, it is possible to create distinctive spaces, each secluded, but each giving a tantalising glimpse into the next, allowing for contrasting themes, such as an area to entertain, an area to relax and an area for the kids to play.
Creating a special area in your garden for you to enjoy doesn't need to be costly. The clever use of basics such as garden fence panels that you needed anyway, mixed with simple planting of foliage and classic flowers can be just as effective as a full garden overhaul.
Our inexpensive garden fencing options are available at this page and are usually pressure treated overlap fence panels, which even with their low cost are still highly-durable and long-lasting.
1) Adding focal points with garden arches
Garden arches are a great way to add a focal point and frame a view in your garden. They are available in all sorts of designs, from classic frames to ones with integral trellises which support climbing plants and make your garden look even better.
Incorporating climbing plants
Garden arches can support climbing plants like Clematis or honeysuckle and add colour and scent to your garden. They are beautiful and create a lovely atmosphere.
2) Incorporating arbours and gazebos
Arbours and gazebos can be used to provide additional seating in your garden as well as a peaceful retreat where you can relax with a good book or a glass of wine, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Budget-friendly options for garden buildings
There are many low-cost arbour and gazebo designs to choose from that will enhance your garden without breaking the bank. Choosing budget options means you can have the benefits of these structures without overspending.
3) DIY garden planters – stunning and low-cost
The easiest and lowest cost of all the garden makeovers is the garden planter/plant pots! With a phenomenal number of different designs, you are sure to find the perfect planter, giving a much-needed boost of colour, structure and contrast to transform your patio, balcony, garden or conservatory.
DIY garden planters are a low-budget solution to display your favourite plants and flowers and allow for personalisation and creativity.
Inexpensive plant pots and their benefits
With so many designs and materials to choose from, cheap plant pots can really make your garden look great. They are perfect for patios, balconies and garden areas, a quick and budget-friendly makeover.
4) Transform your outdoor space with a stunning garden wall
A garden wall is a game changer in your garden space, providing structure and style. Adding a garden wall to your garden makeover allows you to define areas and create different zones, it is a welcome addition. A fresh coat of paint can also breathe new life into your existing garden wall.
Living walls
For a unique eco-friendly difference consider turning your garden wall into a living wall covered in climbing plants. This adds greenery and style to your garden and a lush vertical garden. With affordable garden ideas, you can do this on a budget by choosing low-maintenance climbers and self-seeding plants.
Decorate your wall
With a few well-placed garden accessories such as hanging baskets or solar lights, you can make your garden wall a focal point that adds beauty and functionality. Whether you opt for classic or modern a well-designed garden wall adds a WOW factor and a focal point!
5) A perfect DIY garden bar for outdoor entertaining
A DIY garden bar is a great way to upgrade your outdoor space to entertain friends and family.
Build or buy?
Whether you choose to build or buy from Buy Fencing Direct, a garden bar adds a nice touch to your garden makeover. With a little imagination, you can use affordable garden ideas and use reclaimed wood or repurposed garden furniture to save money. A fresh coat of paint will refresh your DIY garden bar and give it a pop of colour to match your garden style.
Adding value to your garden bar
Hanging baskets or solar lights will make it feel more welcoming. For small garden ideas choose a compact design that uses space without sacrificing functionality. Potted plants or climbing plants around your bar area will blend in with the rest of your garden. With these tips, your DIY garden bar will be the star of your outdoor space and usable all year round.
6) Colourful paint makeovers and vibrant paint ideas
Refreshing your garden with a splash of colour is a cost-effective way to achieve a stunning garden makeover on a budget.
Paint colours for outdoor spaces
Whether it is a garden wall, garden furniture or a garden shed, bright paint ideas can transform your outdoor area. Go bold and eye-catching for a focal point or subtle for a calming effect.
Creative ways to use paint in your garden
For a DIY garden bar or small garden ideas, a fresh coat of paint adds charm and functionality to these features. Use cheap garden ideas and use leftover paint to update plant pots, fences or even outdoor accessories. Paint your garden and have fun and experiment with new garden styles and trends. Make sure to use weather-resistant paint so your colour choices will last and breathe new life into your outdoor spaces.
7) Effortless elegance with low-maintenance and affordable garden plants
For a garden makeover, low-maintenance and affordable garden plants are sensible options. These plants give you the beauty and greenery you want with minimal effort so are perfect for your garden space. By choosing the right plant species you can have a lush garden without spending too much time on maintenance.
Choosing the right low-maintenance plants for your garden
Succulents, ornamental grasses and self-seeding plants are great for adding colour and texture and saving money. Adding these low-maintenance ones to your garden design makes your space look more elegant. Whether you have a small garden or a bigger area buying affordable garden plants will enhance your garden style and give you long-lasting beauty.
8) Make magic with garden lighting
Turning your garden into a magical space is easy with lighting. Add some outdoor lights and you will create an ambience and an invitation to evening gatherings. Solar lights, fairy lights and lanterns will highlight your features and create focal points in your garden.
Choosing the right lighting for your garden makeover
Whether you choose DIY or budget-friendly, lighting is an affordable way to elevate your outdoor space. Place lights strategically to highlight pathways, garden walls and seating areas. Outdoor lighting will turn your garden into a cosy retreat for any occasion.
9) Creative and imaginative raised beds
Raised beds are an excellent way to add creativity to your garden while optimising your garden space. They offer a versatile solution for gardening in smaller areas, allowing you to create stunning plant displays with minimal effort. From repurposed materials like old pallets and wine bottles to custom-built designs, raised beds can be tailored to fit any garden style.
They not only save money but also improve soil quality and drainage, making them ideal for growing a variety of plants. Use them to incorporate colourful bedding plants, trailing plants, or even growing vegetables for a practical and beautiful garden makeover. Raised beds also help define different areas of your garden, adding structure and visual interest.
10) Must have accessories for your garden
Your garden is more than just plants; the right extras can finish off your design. Hanging baskets full of flowers will add a pop of colour and make it feel welcoming. A pretty bird bath will be a focal point, attracting wildlife and calm to your garden area. Even in small gardens, a well-chosen patio can be a snug seating area, making your garden a peaceful retreat from busyness in the home. Focal points such as unusual garden sculptures or water features will add personality and depth to your design.
Selecting garden accessories
Pick extras that fit your garden style and practical requirements. From stylish DIY garden planters to beautiful garden furniture these will make your space your own. Go budget and get a garden makeover without breaking the bank.
Quality and durability of Buy Fencing Direct garden products
All of the products for sale at www.buyfencingdirect.co.uk are built to withstand the test of time, being manufactured using traditional methods and with the highest quality timber.
Benefits of pressure-treated timber and guarantees
Most timber products are also supplied with a 15-year guarantee (look out for the 15-year guarantee stamp) and literally never need treating against rot or fungal decay thanks to the Pressure Treatment process which eliminates the need to apply further coating ......... just leaving you to enjoy your garden!!
Conclusion – cheap garden ideas to consider
In summary, a garden makeover on a budget has endless possibilities to transform your outdoor space without spending a fortune. By focusing on budget solutions and creative ideas you can increase your garden’s functionality and looks. Simple updates like a fresh coat of paint, budget garden accessories or a charming focal point can make a big difference.
Use every inch of your space whether you have a small garden or a bigger one to get a balanced and beautiful design. Take the opportunity to refresh your garden with some imaginative touches like DIY garden bars and raised beds. Choose durable and low-cost materials and low-maintenance affordable garden plants and you will have a garden that will last. With some thought and attention to detail, your garden makeover will bring new life and fun to your outdoor space.
Contact us
For more information about how to complete a garden makeover on a budget, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to assist you with all your needs, from finding affordable garden plants to selecting the perfect inexpensive garden fencing. We are committed to helping you achieve a stunning garden without overspending!
Contact us in these ways:
- Phone - contact us at 0333 003 0515 for expert advice and support
- Email - for detailed enquiries, please email us through our contact form
- Live Chat - use our real-time chat app to message us with text chats. Access this app by clicking the icon at the bottom left corner of the screen