Set the scenery

We are known as a nation of passionate gardeners and the importance we place on our gardens is certainly neither new nor news. Anyone who has ever visited a National Trust property will acknowledge the stunning historical gardens and parklands on display. From early monastic gardens which were both beautiful and functional (producing food and medicine in manicured beds) to the formal Tudor and Stuart gardens, to the more carefree infamous cottage gardens of our green and pleasant lands (which proved that gardening was not the preserve of the upper classes), the popularity of gardens and gardening has never waned on these shores. The Chelsea Flower Show, Kew Gardens and The Lost Gardens of Heligan are just a few of the most well known hot spots for the avid gardener and the ever enduring Gardener’s World was first broadcast by the BBC in 1968 and is still running.

In the UK’s luxury residential market, landscaping is playing an increasingly pivotal role in enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and the market value of high-end properties. Beyond its visual impact, strategic landscaping can offer privacy, define outdoor living spaces and create a seamless transition between interior and exterior environments. This month I am exploring the growing significance (pardon the pun) of landscaping in the UK’s prime residential sector, the benefits of incorporating garden buildings such as saunas and, perhaps most importantly, the impact of a well-executed landscaping scheme on planning applications.

For luxury homeowners, landscaping is more than an aesthetic enhancement – it is a lifestyle investment. Professionally designed gardens offer a retreat from modern life, creating private sanctuaries with features such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits, water features and infinity pools. According to industry reports, a well-landscaped property can increase a property’s value too, making it a strategic investment for developers and homeowners alike. Luxury buyers are drawn to properties with mature trees, manicured lawns, and seasonal planting schemes that provide year- round visual interest. Beyond beauty, functional landscaping features, such as well-placed hedges and trees, enhance privacy and reduce noise pollution, which is particularly valued in affluent suburban areas.

Incorporating functional garden buildings into landscaping schemes has become a popular trend in the UK luxury market, particularly since Covid. High-end properties increasingly feature bespoke outdoor structures such as garden offices, guest lodges, yoga studios and, the latest national obsession, saunas. These additions offer both leisure and lifestyle benefits, creating versatile spaces that extend the home’s living area.

Interestingly, UK planning regulations provide a unique opportunity for homeowners seeking flexibility. Garden structures mounted on wheels are classified as temporary or mobile buildings, which means they typically do not require planning permission. This regulatory loophole allows homeowners to add luxurious amenities such as mobile sauna cabins or garden studios without the lengthy and costly planning process. For luxury buyers, this offers a convenient and stylish way to enhance their outdoor space with minimal bureaucracy. Check out www.cotswild.com for examples of some lovely structure – thank you to them for some of these spectacular shots.

A meticulously designed landscaping scheme is not only an asset for the property itself but also a significant factor in the planning application process. In the UK, local planning authorities often consider the quality of landscaping when assessing new-builds or renovation proposals. A well- considered scheme that prioritises biodiversity, sustainable planting and the integration of green spaces can improve the chances of approval. Some of the images used in this article are courtesy of www.rosebanklandscaping.co.uk, a leading name in luxury landscape design and construction and one we have happily worked alongside.

A landscaping plan that includes native plant species, wildlife-friendly features (such as bee-friendly plants and bird boxes) and sustainable drainage solutions demonstrates environmental sensitivity. This can make a proposal more attractive to planning officers, particularly in areas with strict conservation or greenbelt regulations. Moreover, visually appealing landscaping plans can help mitigate the perceived impact of large-scale developments, making them more palatable to both authorities and neighbouring residents.

The luxury property sector is increasingly embracing eco-conscious landscaping as a selling point. Features such as wildflower meadows, green roofs and natural swimming pools not only create visual impact, but also promote biodiversity. Furthermore, sustainable irrigation systems, permeable paving and rainwater harvesting are becoming desirable features, aligning with the growing trend for environmentally responsible luxury.

Thoughtful garden design enhances the lifestyle appeal of high-end homes, while functional outdoor buildings such as saunas add unique value. The flexibility offered by mobile garden structures further expands the potential of outdoor spaces without the need for planning permission. Additionally, a well-crafted landscaping scheme can significantly strengthen a planning application, offering developers and homeowners a strategic advantage. As luxury buyers continue to prioritise outdoor living, exceptional landscaping will remain a key differentiator in this competitive market.