It doesn't matter if you are trying to revive a defunct garden or simply creating a new one, you will need to explore what is obtainable, manageable and most of all practical for your outdoor project. A careful thought and assessment of your primary need for a garden will assist in the planning and design process.
For those with an already existing garden that needs and upgrade, as tempting as it is to tear down everything and design from scratch, the idea of working with what is already available should not be totally discarded. It not only saves time and cost, the old garden might save as an experimentation of what would work and what would not. New gardens require a lot of care and if commitments already weigh you down, simply reviving and keeping your old garden might spice up the scenery as much as a new one would. Of course there is also a choice of low-maintenance plants and garden features, but even those require certain levels of commitments to manage.
Another important tip when considering Garden Design ideas is the style and looks. Are you longing for something plush or something minimal but effective? Choosing a style and/or theme forehand will help you work around ideas for the features the garden will need too.
The weather always comes into play when designing gardens, is the garden covered or uncovered? Is there enough sunlight filtering through, how often will you need to water the plants? It is best to choose plants that can survive in any of the settings that you choose for your garden. Some plants can't do well in shades; some need regular irrigation to survive, some die with too much of same.
The garden features should not only blend with your home architecture; it should accentuate the garden too and be practical for whatever purpose you design your garden for. Meaning that if the garden serves as a getaway from the daily hustles, features that promote serenity and security should be incorporated from the design stage. Visiting other gardens and the numerous galleries available on and offline is an excellent source of ideal Garden Design ideas.