Traditional garden style is best described as formal. Imagine attending a royal garden party at 17th century Versailles. Kings and Queens of that time used their gardens to display their power and wealth. Rectangular hedges and carved sculptures gave an impression of formality and elegance. This is one of several different garden style types.
Traditional garden style uses symmetry, geometric shapes and repeating patterns. Traditional gardens will often include elements like statues and water features. Defined lines from hedges and topiaries give a polished look. You’ll often see expanses of green lawns with gravel pathways. Fans of balance and symmetry will appreciate a traditional garden.
Cottage garden style can sometimes get confused with traditional garden style. This is because the cottage garden style is a form of the traditional garden design with a difference in the style of planting. Traditional garden style is more “precise” so to speak – since symmetry and balance play such a role. The cottage style is more free-form. If you lean toward a more freestyle approach to your gardening, take a look at my page for Country Cottage Garden Style.
If the idea of applying a formal courtyard vibe to your garden appeals to you, read on! In this article, I’ll provide a complete guide to creating a traditional style garden.