Here at Laura’s Gardens, we believe that your garden should be a place of joy, peace, and natural beauty - no matter how small your space is. And if you’ve ever found yourself frustrated with a lawn that never seems to thrive or have thought about installing artificial grass, I’d like you to consider the idea of a garden without any grass at all. Now this feels uncomfortable for many people. The English love their lawns. We envisage large areas of lush green blades, space for children to play and the sound of a mower on a sunny day. But the reality is that, with property prices at an all-time high, most of us can’t afford a large garden and lawns simply don’t thrive in small, shady areas.
Before and After! Images courtesy of www.emilysgardens.co.uk
You might still be wondering, “But where would I sit, or how would it feel like a garden if I don’t have that lovely green carpet of grass?” Well, I would like to take you on a journey to reimagine your outdoor space. Small gardens are perfect for rethinking the typical lawn and embracing a space that’s lush, vibrant, and full of life—all without the hassle of grass.
The Beauty of Courtyard Style
Images from Laura's Gardens portfolio
One of the best ways to make a small garden feel like an expansive oasis is by incorporating a courtyard-style design. Think of the beautiful courtyards you may have visited in Europe. A courtyard doesn’t need to be large to feel serene; in fact, its charm lies in its ability to provide privacy, calm, and a sense of enclosure. By filling the space with a variety of planting, trees, and natural elements, you can transform it into a beautiful, low-maintenance retreat.
Without the need for a lawn, you have more room to explore creative planting options. You can add textures, colours, and scents through carefully chosen flowers, shrubs, and climbing plants. Tall trees can provide shade, even in the smallest of spaces, and their canopy can bring a sense of scale to your garden that grass simply can’t match.
Bringing Nature to Your Doorstep
Images courtesy of www.emilysgardens.co.uk
A garden without grass can still feel very much like a natural oasis. Imagine stepping into a peaceful retreat filled with the sound of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the soft hum of nature. By planting native plants, fragrant flowers, or even creating a mini woodland, your garden can feel every bit as calming and connected to nature as a sprawling lawn would.
Trees don’t just add height and interest - they provide cooling shade, reduce noise, and improve air quality, making your garden not only beautiful but also eco-friendly. A carefully planned design can even give your space the feeling of an extension of your home, blurring the lines between inside and out.
Low-Maintenance, High-Reward
Let's face it—maintaining a lawn can be a time-consuming and sometimes frustrating task, especially in a smaller garden where sunlight and soil conditions aren’t always ideal. Grass requires constant care: watering, mowing, fertilizing, and aerating. And let’s not forget about the environmental impact of using mowers or chemicals to keep it neat, lush and green. Grass is the highest maintenance plant in any garden. Removing it can remove a lot of the repetitive work and free you up to enjoy your garden and spend less time tending it. You’ll have more time to relax, entertain, or simply bask in the tranquillity of your new natural retreat.
Before and After! Images from Laura's Gardens portfolio
A Haven for Wildlife
Another benefit of going grass-free is the potential to create a habitat that supports wildlife. Grass lawns can sometimes be a barren place for insects and wildlife, but a garden full of diverse planting, trees, and even a small water feature can attract pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects. It’s a wonderful way to feel more connected to the natural world and even contribute to the health of local ecosystems.
Images from Laura's Gardens portfolio
Your Space, Your Style
The best part about grass-free gardens is the endless possibilities they offer. You get to design a space that fits your lifestyle, tastes, and the unique needs of your home. Whether you prefer a sleek modern design with sculptural plants or a cottage garden full of whimsical flowers, you have the freedom to choose what works for you—no grass required!
At Laura’s Gardens, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let us help you create a stunning garden that’s not only beautiful but also sustainable and easy to care for. Imagine a space where nature flourishes, your plants thrive, and you’re free from the constraints of a traditional lawn. The possibilities are endless, and we can’t wait to help you bring your vision to life.
Let’s create something truly special, together.
Article by Laura Bedell-Pearce, garden designer in Reigate and Redhill. Check out our “Garden Makeover Guide”
For more garden inspiration, follow Laura’s Gardens on Facebook @laurasgardensuk and Instagram @laurasgardens.
Before with artificial grass, After with pathways and planting!
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