John Brookes MBE (1933–2018) was one of the most influential garden designers of the 20th century, credited with transforming our thinking about gardens. In the 1960s, he introduced the concept of the outdoor room, a revolutionary idea that moved away from traditional ornamental gardens and instead treated outdoor spaces as functional extensions of the home.
His book Room Outside, published in 1969, cemented this approach, encouraging homeowners to design their gardens with the same practicality and purpose as their interiors.
Brookes believed that gardens should be designed for living, not just looking. Taking inspiration from architecture and interior design, he recommended structured layouts with clear zones for dining, relaxing and entertaining – mirroring the rooms inside a house. His designs combined strong geometric shapes with thoughtful planting, ensuring outdoor spaces were not only aesthetically pleasing but also usable and comfortable.
His influence continues to shape modern garden design, from contemporary terraces to multi-functional family gardens. However, today’s technology has taken the outdoor room concept even further – extending its use well beyond what was possible in Brookes’ time.
Making the Most of Your Outdoor Space
Many homeowners don’t use their outdoor space as much as they could. The garden is often seen as a separate entity – something to be looked at rather than lived in. But when designed as an extension of your home, it can become part of your daily life.
Some properties – particularly those with large plots – have land that is purely ornamental. While beautiful, it can feel disconnected from the home. By designing outdoor spaces with function in mind, you can create areas that naturally draw you outside, whether for relaxing, entertaining or everyday living.
Modern technology has made this even easier. High-quality outdoor kitchens, pizza ovens, and bar areas mean cooking and entertaining outdoors are no longer just a summer novelty – it’s a lifestyle choice. Home-cinema systems with weatherproof screens and built-in speakers turn the garden into an open-air theatre, while innovations in outdoor heating, fire pits and infrared heaters mean these spaces can be used comfortably in winter, not just on warm evenings.
Solar technology also plays a role, from lighting to heated seating, making outdoor rooms more sustainable and efficient than ever.
A Garden That Boosts Saleability
A well-designed garden doesn’t just enhance your lifestyle – it can make your property more attractive to buyers. While there’s no definitive data to say landscaping adds value in cash terms, it certainly adds saleability. A home with a beautifully designed, functional outdoor space feels more complete and desirable.
Increasingly, buyers look for homes with usable outdoor areas that flow naturally from the indoors. A garden that invites you to dine, unwind or entertain – perhaps with a fire pit, a covered outdoor lounge, or a fully equipped garden office – feels like an extra room, and this makes a property stand out in the market.
Creating a Seamless Flow Between Indoors and Out
Modern homes often feature large glass doors and windows that bring the outdoors in. The garden is the main view from these windows, so it makes sense to ensure it complements the home’s design rather than feeling like a separate, disconnected space.
A well-thought-out garden design will consider materials, colours and layout to create a sense of cohesion. When the garden reflects the style of the house, the transition between inside and out feels effortless.
Designing a Garden That Feels Like a Room
So, how do you achieve this ‘extra room’ effect? The key lies in thoughtful design elements:
- Lighting – A well-lit garden extends its use into the evening, making it feel more like a living space rather than just a daytime feature. Soft, ambient lighting can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Material Choices – Using materials that complement your home’s interior (such as similar flooring, stone or wood finishes) helps create a seamless connection between spaces.
- Layout and Zoning – Just like inside your home, different ‘rooms’ can be created outdoors. A dining space, a relaxing seating area and a play zone for children ensure the garden is practical and welcoming at all times of the day.
- Shelter and Privacy – Thoughtful planting, pergolas or garden structures can provide a sense of enclosure, making outdoor areas feel cosier and protected from road noise or neighbouring properties.
- Technology and Comfort – Outdoor heating, retractable awnings and smart technology (such as weatherproof speakers and remote-controlled lighting) make outdoor spaces comfortable year-round, rather than just in the summer months.
A Garden to Love and Live In
The ultimate goal is to create a garden that you want to spend time in. A space that works for you – whether that means a tranquil retreat, an alfresco dining area, or a lively family-friendly zone. Thanks to modern innovations, outdoor rooms are no longer limited by the seasons. Fire pits, heated seating, and even outdoor hot tubs mean that your garden can be just as inviting in winter as it is in summer.
By thinking of your garden as an extra room, you can transform it from a neglected space into an integral part of your home – one that enhances both your lifestyle and your property’s appeal.
If you would like us to design your new garden, the first step is to get in touch via the form below. Please leave a contact telephone number. We will use your data to contact you for discussing the terms of our consultation services.