The Garden Trick That Makes Even Simple Spaces Look Luxurious

If you've ever walked into someone's garden and wondered how they achieved such an upscale look, you might jump to the conclusion that a professional designer or an infinite budget was behind it. But more often than not, the lush aesthetic is not coming from anything unobtainable. Creating the best layout for your garden to give you that sophisticated style doesn't require you to spend an outrageous amount of money on fancy or exotic plants. In reality, it only requires a bit of knowledge.

You won't need a large space, or a special layout to achieve this look. Even the most visually underwhelming space can be transformed with proper plant placement and selection. To start, shift your focus to creating a bold impression by curating a collection of plants with different textures and colors. Foolproof plants to start with include tree ferns, tree peonies (Paeonia suffruticosa), and Italian cypress (Cupressus sempervirens). These plants create maximum impact with their unique textures, colors, and patterns. Next, you'll need to get a little creative with where you want to place each plant. With strategic placement, you'll create a three-dimensional look that invites the viewer to get lost in your garden of luxury. All you'll need next are some tips and creativity to easily take your garden from drab, to fab.

If your environment allows it, choose bold, tropical plants like tree ferns to add to your garden. They evoke the feeling of stepping into a tropical resort, without you having to move an inch. Plus, they're generally easy to find in the Pacific Northwest region of the U.S., so if you reside there, it shouldn't be difficult to find them at your local nursery. If you live in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 to 11, or in Florida and further north, The Australian tree fern (Cyathea cooperi) is a great pick.

Tree peonies are another great option for some added drama, while still keeping a luxe, tropical feel. Plus, they're generally pest-resistant. If tree peonies aren't your thing, you can opt for hydrangeas instead. In some ways, they're more versatile, as they come in various sizes and work in different USDA Plant Hardiness zones, but especially well in zones 3a to 8b.

If you're having trouble deciding what specific hydrangea fits the bill, Limelight (Hydrangea paniculata), is a solid choice and thrives in zones 4 through 8. Its large, elegant flowers make for an upscale look, especially when planted in a row. Lastly, evergreens like the Italian cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) add structure and dimension to any area you plant it with its dark green leaves and tall figure, and grow well in warm weather, like zones 7 to 10. 

So now that you know what plants to use, all that's left is deciding where to place them. Starting with the Australian tree fern, planting this tall plant by the pool or as a grand focal point to an entryway will help your space evoke a sense of immense luxury. Plus, its trunk can grow up to 30 feet tall, adding some shade as a bonus during the hot summer months.

For even more drama, add majestic peonies that grow to spectacular heights and boast gorgeous blooms next to it. While it's an unlikely combination, its contrasting pink and white petals, along with its fluffy texture, add an element of refined and timeless elegance to your entryway, pool, or front yard. Limelight also works well next to peonies in your front yard or backyard for a romantic, upscale look. Versatile and timeless, you're sure to make a statement with these florals, wherever you choose to put them. And for areas like staircases, try framing it with evergreens like the Italian cypress. Evergreens in these areas can also drastically transform your space into something right out of a fairytale. With just a few curated plants and the right placement, you'll have everything you need for the luxurious garden of your dreams.