Whether you’re completing overhauling your outdoor space or are planning to add unique elements, you’ll need to know how to choose the right materials for your garden build.

As a professional garden design service, we regularly support our clients with landscaping and hardscaping projects of all scales.

In this post, we’ll discuss what to consider when choosing garden materials and reveal some top tips for bringing your vision to life.

First things first, which style are you going for?

Gardens are like blank canvases; you can put a unique stamp on them and showcase your personality.

For example, if you have a contemporary home and want to bring minimalism into the garden, focusing on subtle landscaping and modern hardscaping will create a streamlined interior and exterior.

But, if your home is rustic, creating a traditional cottage or wildflower garden can add a touch of old-world charm. Some people also enjoy creating themed gardens, such as Moroccan, which creates a colourful outdoor space for entertaining.

Asking a garden designer for advice can help you plan the perfect space.

Understand your limits

The UK typically experiences a somewhat volatile climate, with outdoor spaces seeing plenty of rain and heavy winds each year. You’ll need to consider the weather when choosing outdoor materials, as it can impact their lifespan and cause safety issues.

Here are the most important factors when selecting materials for your garden:

Water Resistance: Can the material handle regular rainfall without degrading or losing its aesthetic appeal?
Durability: Can your materials handle long-term moisture build-up and temperature regulations?
Slip Resistance: If your area receives a lot of rain, you’ll also need to consider whether you’ll need materials with slip-resistant features.

How much maintenance are you willing to perform?

All garden materials need ongoing maintenance – but some are easier to take care of. When assessing materials, it’s essential to factor in your style preferences – certain materials look better in modern or classic gardens than others:

Timber: Loved for its versatility and natural aesthetic, timber is popular for raised beds, decking, and pergolas. However, it will require frequent sealing and staining.
Composite Decking: This highly sustainable material can last for up to 30 years with minimal maintenance. Its downsides are the initial expense and susceptibility to overheating.
Concrete: Concrete is a low-maintenance option for paving, but it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing material.
Natural Stone: Natural stone is the most expensive hardscaping option, but it isn’t for everyone and can fade. However, even when this does happen, natural stone manages to blend with your garden, so the effects aren’t as prominent.
Bricks: Known for their versatility, bricks are ideal for all sorts of gardens. They’re also highly durable, but they will require frequent cleaning.

Sustainability

Another key consideration is sustainability, with many people searching for eco-friendly materials.

Some materials are better for the environment than others, but one of the most important ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to choose local materials. You won’t need to worry about long-distance deliveries and can see the materials in person.

Recycled bricks, timber, and composite boards can add extra character to your garden.

Think about long-term costs

Opting for the cheapest materials might seem like a great idea, but you could end up spending more in the long run. Instead, consider how long you want the materials to last and base your decision on long-term care costs.

For example, composite decking costs more initially, but it lasts a lot longer. Concrete is also highly durable, but you might prefer bricks of natural stone due to their aesthetic appeal.

Choosing the best hardscaping materials for each area of the garden

The best thing about hardscaping elements is that they allow you to get creative. You can choose different materials for each area of your garden, ensuring you make a unique statement.

However, if you have a contemporary garden, it’s important to choose materials that complement each other and create a streamlined finish.

Here are the best materials for each garden area:

Decking: Both timber and composite are excellent choices. If you opt for timber, remember that hardwoods cost more than softwoods initially, but they’re more durable. Composite decking is often made from recycled materials, and it’s slip-resistant.

Pathways and Patios: Pathways add functionality to your garden and divide it into different areas. Natural stone, bricks, or concrete pavers are top choices for pathways and patios. Some people also opt for porcelain tiles.

Raised Beds: Oak and treated timber are great for raised beds due to their durability. If you have a modern garden, you might want to try bricks or metal.

Fencing: You can use any material for your fence, but timber panels are the go-to option. Creating a living wall can free up space while still allowing you to bring nature into the garden.

What about softscaping materials?

Hardscaping is like creating a home’s exterior and interior structure, but softscaping is the interior design. It’s where you get to factor in your style preferences. There are plenty of garden design trends for 2025, so don’t be afraid to get creative.

Softscaping materials that will help you bring your vision to life include:

Compost and Soil: Healthy gardens rely on high-quality topsoil, which is full of essential nutrients that ensure plants thrive during the spring and summer. Investing in premium soil and compost reduces the need for fertilisers, which saves money.
Mulches: Organic mulches are affordable solutions for your garden, as they improve soil quality and retain moisture. Inorganic mulch offers long-term durability and will last for years, but it’s more expensive.

The bottom line

As you can see, choosing the right materials for your garden build project ensures that you can create a stunning outdoor space. Whether you know what you want to achieve or need a professional garden designer, Soil Sisters offers a professional service.

We’ve helped clients on all budgets enjoy their gardens, so please get in touch with us today for a free consultation and quote.