Adding an Arbour to Your Garden

An arbour is more than just a charming garden accessory — it’s a transformative addition that brings beauty, structure, and functionality to any outdoor space. Whether you envision a cosy retreat covered in blooming vines or a statement piece that frames your garden path, it can elevate your garden’s design. If you’re considering adding one to your garden, here’s everything you need to know to make it a standout feature.

At its core, an arbour is a freestanding or attached structure that typically features an arched or flat roof with open lattice sides. It’s designed to support climbing plants or act as a decorative element. Unlike a pergola, which usually covers a larger area, an arbour is a focal point or entranceway that creates a sense of intimacy and charm in a smaller space.

There are plenty of reasons to incorporate an arbour into your garden design:

• Visual Interest: It adds height, depth, and character to a flat, open space or uninteresting space. It draws the eye upward and creates a layered landscape. A partial arbour along a house wall or garage door softens the look and adds a three-dimensional element to the space.
• Shade and Shelter: The right climbing plants or shade-providing roof can offer a cosy, shaded nook perfect for sitting or reading.

• A Frame for Flowers: Train Roses, Wisteria, Clematis, or native climbers like Hardenbergia or Pandorea to climb the sides and arch of the arbour for a stunning display of colour and fragrance.
• A Functional Entrance: An arbour can frame a garden gate or pathway, creating a dramatic transition between different sections of your garden.

Arbours come in many styles and materials. You can also mix different materials for a custom look. Consider these factors to find the perfect match for your space.

1. Style

• Classic Wooden Arbours: These bring your garden a traditional, rustic charm. They’re ideal for cottage-style or English country gardens.
• Metal Arbours: Sleek and durable, metal arbours offer a modern touch and work well in minimalist or contemporary gardens.

• Vinyl (hard-wearing PVC) and Composite Arbours: These are low-maintenance and weather-resistant, perfect if you want beauty without the upkeep. However, once damaged, they are challenging to repair.

2. Size

Think about proportion. A large arbour can overwhelm a small garden, while a small arbour might get lost in an ample space. Measure carefully and ensure it fits the scale of your garden.

3. Design Features

Consider extra features like built-in benches, lattice sides for climbing plants, or a decorative arch that adds architectural flair.

Placement is key to maximising your arbour’s impact. Here are a few strategic ideas:

• Garden Entrance: Position the arbour at the entrance to your garden or as a gateway to a specific area. Pair it with a garden gate for a welcoming and whimsical touch.
• Pathway Accent: Place the it over a path to create a tunnel effect, especially if you plan to grow climbing plants. This works well for connecting different garden zones.
• Seating Spot: A built-in bench in an arbour, ideally facing a beautiful view or nestled among flowerbeds, can create a peaceful retreat.
• Framing a Feature: Position an arbour to frame the view and highlight a fountain, statue, or other garden focal point.

The right plants can turn your arbour into a living work of art. Here are some excellent choices for climbing plants that thrive on arbours:

• Roses: Choose climbing varieties like Pierre De Ronsard or Gertrude Jeykll for classic beauty and a heavenly fragrance.
• Clematis: With hundreds of varieties, Clematis offers stunning flowers in various colours. Try ‘Jackmanii’ for vibrant purple blooms. They need a lot of care initially, but you should also ensure they are well-mulched and watered.

• Wisteria: Known for its cascading clusters of flowers, wisteria creates a romantic, fairy-tale vibe. This plant needs a reasonably strong arbour, so you’d need to ensure that the arbour is well-built and can take a lot of weight.
• Honeysuckle: Add sweet-smelling blooms and attract pollinators with honeysuckle.
• Jasmine: For a Tropical feel and intoxicating scent, jasmine is a perfect pick.

Adding an arbour doesn’t require advanced carpentry skills, but it does require careful planning and preparation.

• Check Local Regulations: Some neighbourhoods or councils may have rules regarding outdoor structures.
• Choose a Stable Base: Whether your arbour will sit on grass, soil, or a paved area, ensure it’s stable. Use anchors or concrete footings for added support, especially in windy locations.
• Assemble with Care: Follow manufacturer instructions for pre-made kits, or consider hiring a professional if you opt for a custom design.

Once your arbour is in place, a little maintenance goes a long way:

• Wooden Arbours: Treat with weatherproof stain or sealant to prevent rot and warping. Inspect for signs of wear each season.
• Metal Arbours: Look for rust, especially in humid areas. Use rust-resistant paint or coatings as needed.
• Vinyl and Composite Arbours: These require minimal care — simply wash them with soap and water on an annual basis to keep them looking fresh.

An arbour can redefine your garden by adding vertical beauty, a peaceful retreat, or a dramatic entrance. With the right style, strategic placement, and careful selection of plants, you’ll create a timeless feature that enhances your outdoor space’s form and function. So why wait? Whether planning a garden makeover or adding a touch of magic, an arbour is the perfect way to bring charm and elegance to your backyard sanctuary.