5 Inspiring Garden Design Tips from Rosemary Verey at Barnsley House

Today, I want to discuss 5 garden design tips I learned from Rosemary Verey’s home in the Cotswolds called Barnsely House. Rosemary Verey’s work at Barnsley House continues to inspire gardeners worldwide. Nestled in the beautiful Cotswolds, Barnsley House is a testament to Verey’s design genius and passion for gardening.

Here are five of her pro tips to help you create your own garden paradise. I’ve included a link to my YouTube video showing these 5 tips in action at Barnsley House.

1. Visit Gardens Year-Round

Rosemary Verey emphasized the importance of visiting other gardens throughout the year. Observing how gardens change with the seasons deepens your understanding and appreciation of garden design. Take notes and photos of what inspires you. This practice not only sparks creativity but also trains your eye to see the subtle details that make a garden special.

Seeing a garden in different seasons can reveal its structure and planting scheme’s strengths and weaknesses. Spring blooms, summer foliage, autumn colors, and winter outlines each tell a different story. By visiting gardens regularly, you can gather ideas for your own space and understand how to create a garden that is beautiful year-round.

2. Read Gardening Books

Verey’s gardening knowledge grew exponentially when she began collecting and studying old gardening books. These books are treasure troves of horticultural wisdom and design inspiration. Today, we have access to thousands of gardening books online, offering endless ideas to enhance our garden spaces.

Verey often read gardening books written in the 17th century when Barnsley House was built. This allowed her to understand how gardens were created within that period of time.

Diving into gardening books connects you with centuries of horticultural tradition. Each book you read enriches your understanding of different garden styles, plant care techniques, and historical design principles. The knowledge you gain will help you craft a more informed and imaginative garden.

3. Include Vertical Accents

Vertical elements like arbors, trellises, and climbing plants add visual interest and create a sense of enclosure in your garden. They make small spaces feel larger and more dynamic. Think about how you can incorporate vertical accents to bring a new dimension to your garden.

Vertical accents can also provide practical benefits. They help to maximize growing space, especially in smaller gardens, by allowing you to grow climbing vegetables and flowers. Vertical elements also create privacy, screen unsightly views, and define different garden areas, enhancing both the beauty and functionality of your garden.

4. Create Long Vistas

Inspired by Percy Cane, Verey believed in the power of long vistas to add depth and intrigue to a garden. Whether your garden is large or small, creating a focal point that draws the eye can transform your space. Align pathways, plants, and features to create these inviting views.

A well-designed vista encourages exploration and interaction with the garden. It leads visitors on a journey through the space, offering new perspectives and surprises along the way. By thoughtfully positioning pathways, seating areas, and focal points, you can create a garden that feels expansive and engaging, regardless of its actual size.

5. Design Your Garden with Your House In Mind

Rosemary Verey viewed the garden as an extension of the house. Spend time observing your garden from different vantage points within your home. Consider how your garden design can enhance the views from your windows and make your outdoor space feel like a natural extension of your indoor living areas.

Integrating your garden with your home’s architecture and interior spaces creates a seamless flow between indoors and outdoors. This approach not only enhances your living environment but also makes your garden feel more personal and cohesive.

Thoughtful placement of plants, structures, and garden features can transform your garden into an extension of your home’s aesthetic and ambiance.

By following these tips from Rosemary Verey, you can bring a touch of Barnsley House magic to your own garden. Happy gardening!