According to Tuinbranche Nederland, the leading garden trends for 2020—Inner Retreat, Blended Cultures, and Street Savage—are showcased in three model gardens. These designs expertly blend sustainability, biodiversity, and water-friendliness into contemporary landscapes. Rainwater drains swiftly to avoid puddles, abundant greenery supports butterflies, birds, and insects, and recycled materials promote eco-conscious living. These gardens inspire healthier environments for people and wildlife alike.
Inner Retreat
This trend emphasizes slowing down and finding serenity. A wooden platform fosters peace and harmony, complemented by oval borders and a serene pond. Soft, muted colors and gentle shapes prevail, with hanging plant baskets on the pergola adding intimacy and lushness. Fine-textured plants act as a buffer from the outside world, while white tones and translucent materials amplify tranquility. Rainwater flows effortlessly into borders, the pond, and deck gaps, welcoming birds, butterflies, bees, and pollinators.
Blended Cultures
In our digital age, this trend counters isolation by blending worlds and cultures. Expect a vibrant mix of materials, global influences, and diverse plants—including a lush green wall. Natural tones contrast with bold accents, like colorful foil on greenhouse windows for an exotic vibe. Eclectic furniture and accessories create a cheerful, casual folklore atmosphere. Native and exotic plants attract garden wildlife, while rain barrels capture water or let it seep into generous borders.
Street Savage
Embracing imperfection and raw freedom with hip-hop and street influences, this bold trend features industrial furniture from recycled materials, graffiti-painted fences, and colorful pots. Semi-paved Black Sparkle flooring offers urban edge while allowing rainwater infiltration—unlike solid concrete. Nectar-rich plants in pots draw butterflies, bees, and pollinators, delivering vibrant, unconventional appeal.
Photo credit: Tuinbranche Nederland/Maayke de Ridder
