Landscape & Urban Design Issue 71 2025 | Page 32

DECKING

WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR DREAM GARDEN IN 2025

As the year draws to a close , spending your days lazing in the garden might seem a distant memory . But soon attention will shift to garden plans for next summer , so here ’ s what most Brits would want to put in theirs .
Research has shown that whilst the average British garden contains outdoor furniture , a patio and barbecue , the UK ’ s dream of their outdoor space including a summer house , decking and a fire pit , with more than a third of UK homeowners choosing these aspirational items if they were creating the gardens of their dreams .
According to new research , 36 % of people said they would feature a luxurious summer house in their dream garden , while 34 % said a fire pit and 33 % chose decking to complete their aspirational space .
The outdoor living trends survey , which was carried out by Trex , the world ’ s number one decking brand , reveals how important people consider their outdoor spaces and reflects how much money they would be willing to spend if budgets were limitless . in a UK garden , a swimming pool , arguably the most expensive of dream additions , costs , on average , £ 20,000 - £ 50,000 .
The inclusion of such aspirational garden features on Brits ’ wishlists can be attributed to the shift to outdoor living that began during the pandemic . The latest research shows people continue to place a high value on their gardens , seeing them as an extension of their homes .
Social media has also played a role in inspiring peoples ’ gardens – and , potentially , increased appetites for luxury additions – with the same survey revealing over two-thirds of under-35s use social media platforms for garden inspiration .
Bethany Perez , brand manager for Trex , said : “ We ’ re delighted that decking features so high up the list of dream garden additions - but not surprised .
“ Decking instantly transforms an outdoor space , it is the perfect base for entertaining , relaxing and al fresco dining and really helps homeowners make the most of their gardens .”
The survey also found :
• Other popular aspirational items included hot tubs ( 31 %) pizza ovens ( 27 %) and a swimming pool ( 19 %)
• 44 % of respondents aged 18-24 would pick a swimming pool as their first choice their ideal garden , while 48 % of the over 55s went for garden furniture
• Artificial grass and children ’ s play equipment were the least favourite additions with 13 % and 16 %, respectively , of respondents selecting these
• The top five most common items in the average UK outdoor space are garden furniture , lawns , sheds , patios and barbecues .
While a summer house would cost approximately £ 5,000 to install uk . trex . com
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