Why Autumn is the Perfect Time to Design Your Dream Entertaining Garden

Yes, it’s been pouring, and the gloomy weather has left our gardens looking a bit dreary. But imagine a garden that defies the weather—a space designed to be inviting no matter the forecast. While barbecue season may feel like a distant memory, autumn is the perfect time to plan for an all-weather entertaining garden that will be ready to go as soon as spring arrives.

Why Start Your Garden Makeover Now?

By tackling your garden design in autumn, you’ll have time to plan and incorporate features like a cozy covered area, outdoor heating, and weather-resistant pathways. These changes can transform your outdoor space into an inviting retreat that’s ready for entertaining, rain or shine. Here are our top tips to get you started:

1) Add a Pergola for All-Weather Coverage

A pergola can be the ideal solution to create a sheltered, stylish area in your garden. A metal pergola with adjustable louvers, like this one from Hygge, provides rain cover with built-in gutters for water management. This type of structure offers flexibility at a reasonable price (a basic 3m x 3m model starts around £2,000). Enhance your pergola with heating, lighting, and decorative side panels to create a versatile, comfortable space for year-round use.

2. Upgrade Your Planting for Year-Round Appeal

At this time of year, your garden should still have structure and colour. If not, a planting revamp can make a big difference. Focus on adding plants that look great through autumn and winter. Well-placed evergreens, colourful perennials, and ornamental grasses will provide structure and interest, keeping your garden looking lively even on grey days.

3. Design Views from the House

Make your garden a visual delight even from inside the house. By creating focal points visible from key windows, you can enjoy the beauty of your garden all year round. Add a firepit or accent lighting to make winter views snug and inviting, and consider the best spots for summer seating so you can plan your layout accordingly.

4. Incorporate Garden Lighting and Screening

Lighting is essential for enjoying your garden during the darker months. Strategically placed lights can illuminate pathways and highlight features, allowing you to appreciate the space even in winter. If your garden is overlooked, consider adding screens or espaliered trees to create privacy—autumn is a great time to plant these.

5. Plan ‘Dry Lines’ with Paths and Seating Areas

Create practical pathways to avoid soggy feet on your way to a garden studio or seating area. Gravel or stone paths provide clean, dry routes, while a well-placed bench or small seating nook gives you a welcoming spot to enjoy warm winter days. Planting along the paths enhances the sense of a journey through your garden, making it both practical and beautiful.

6. Address Drainage Issues

Now is the ideal time to plan drainage improvements. If parts of your garden tend to get waterlogged, consider adding drainage systems to channel excess water away. By working on drainage alongside other garden upgrades, you can ensure your garden remains functional and vibrant, even after heavy rains.

7. Plan and Book Early

To create a cohesive and beautiful garden, it’s best to plan your design as a whole. Working with a professional designer will help you integrate all elements—from planting and pathways to drainage and lighting. Many landscapers are booked well in advance, so start early to secure your spot and take advantage of off-season deals on plants and furniture.

For more information on the design and landscaping process, check out our guides:

• How Much Will It Cost to Design My Garden?
• How Much Will It Cost to Landscape My Garden?

If you have a garden project in mind, feel free to contact our design team for a chat. We’re here to help you create the perfect outdoor entertaining space!

CGLA are an award winning team of Garden Designers, Landscape Architects, Landscapers and Garden Maintenance Operatives working in Buckinghamshire, London and the South East, as well as on prestigious design projects across the UK and abroad. We are currently working in Oman, Jersey and France, and welcome enquires for design, landscaping or garden maintenance. Contact us here