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Designing a garden is an art that allows you to create a tranquil sanctuary or a stunning outdoor room right on your doorstep. Whether you are an experienced gardener or a green thumb novice, transforming your outdoor space into a breathtaking haven is a gratifying and rewarding endeavour. Here, we will explore five essential tips from the view of a  professional garden landscaper to help you design a stunning garden that brings beauty, joy, and relaxation to your life.

TIP 1: IDENTIFY YOUR VISION AND PURPOSE.

Before diving into garden work, pause to contemplate your garden’s envisioned purpose. Reflect on the fundamental role your garden will play – will it serve as a tranquil haven for relaxation and unwinding, a sunlit sanctuary for plant enthusiasts during the day, or a vibrant venue for evening gatherings? Are you aspiring for a picturesque view from your home’s windows, or do you seek to create a bustling habitat to entice wildlife and pollinators? Grasping the core intent of your garden will steer your design decisions and guarantee that each aspect contributes harmoniously to your overarching concept.

Additionally, think about your garden’s style and theme. Do you prefer a traditional English garden, a modern minimalist layout, or a rustic natural setting? Defining your style will give you a direction to work towards, making the design process more focused and enjoyable. This first part of the process can be the hardest to get going and if you feel a bit stuck or would like an expert designer to help share “the art of the possible”, CGLA can definitely help.

TIP 2: FOCUS ON THE PRACTICALITIES FIRST

Creating a visually appealing garden is undoubtedly important, but it’s equally crucial not to disregard practicality and functionality, especially since integrating them as an afterthought could potentially undermine your thoughtfully crafted design! At the outset, give careful consideration to how you intend to utilize the space, ensuring it seamlessly fits your lifestyle and requirements. If you have children or pets, earmark a dedicated play area or establish pathways to protect delicate plants from unintended trampling. Strategically incorporate seating zones, strategically placing them to cater to relaxation and social gatherings while taking into account the varying sunlight exposure throughout the day.

When contemplating the installation of structures like sheds or compost bins, it’s advisable not to situate them directly in your primary line of sight from the house. Instead, assess their size requirements and explore alternative placement options. Placing a shed adjacent to the house often proves to be a more practical solution than tucking it away in the farthest corner of your property. A well-conceived garden design ultimately translates to reduced maintenance needs and heightened enjoyment in the long term.

TIP 3: USE FRAMING, FOCAL POINTS AND KEY AXES

These drive the shapes and views you want in your garden. But in essence remember to use the whole garden not just the edges, and work the space around your key viewpoints, seating areas and features.

TIP 4: CREATE LAYERS OF COLOUR AND TEXTURE WITH PLANTING

When it comes to planting, many individuals often experience a sense of uncertainty and apprehension, fearing they might struggle to maintain their greenery. However, there exists a rich selection of hardy and dependable flowering shrubs and perennials that can provide vibrant colours and year-round allure when chosen thoughtfully. Begin by identifying the trees and shrubs you wish to retain from your existing garden. Subsequently, incorporate those elements that will introduce key features and define divisions within your new design. Pay careful attention to growth rates and soil and aspect preferences, as any plant positioned in an unsuitable location will invariably demand more effort to thrive.

As for adding smaller plants, initiate the process by establishing the style and colour palette that align with your preferences. Once you’ve established a clear vision, such as “A luxuriant, low-maintenance subtropical garden adorned with purple blooms,” the process of selecting specific plants becomes considerably more straightforward. A bit of research or the guidance of a skilled designer can assist you in filling in the finer details effortlessly.

Ruth Marshall, CGLA director and RHS Gold-Medal winning designer comments “Getting the mood boards right is the main part of the battle- if you have images of what you like and do not like a good designer should be able to help you achieve something close to it. Just be aware that your choices may require higher maintenance than you want so you need to consider this, and planting changes through the year so you will have a different effect by season that also needs to be considered.”

TIP 5: CHOOSE HARD LANDSCAPING MATERIALS AND FEATURES WITH CARE.

Aesthetically- choose a limited palette of materials that you use across the garden so that it all feels harmonious. Ideally only use one material of each unit size (i.e., one paving material, one gravel, one type of wood, one brick that matches the house etc). Ensure they are fit for purpose as well as looking great- gravels need careful thought- are they going to track into the house, will cars/prams/bikes get bogged down, will it slide down the hill or wash onto my lawn or patio?

Paving materials need to be the right thickness, slip resistance and unit sizes to achieve the practical and aesthetic demands of your design. Features such as pots, sculptures and pergolas need to fit the space. Do you need to move them or get a mower past? Are they made of a material that will stain your patio? Can you get water to them?

Designing your garden is an enriching journey that allows you to create an outdoor space that reflects your personality and meets your desires. 

Moving house can be a really exciting and a great opportunity for a fresh start. Perhaps you’re daydreaming about what colour you’re going to paint the kitchen and all the wonderful new memories you’re going to make there.

And then you realise that you’ve got to pack every single thing you own and actually move. This task can seem overwhelming. How do we end up accumulating so many things! 

Here are some top tips on how to pack to move house efficiently.

Invest in good boxes

When preparing to move house efficiently, it’s important to invest in good quality boxes. Whilst you may think that you can get away with putting things into large carrier bags or flimsy boxes, remember that these are going to contain all of your worldly belongings.

Ideally, you want to avoid any potential damage to your belongings during the move. Boxes should be sturdy and in good condition without any wear or tear. Work out how many you might need and order them in bulk online. It’s a good idea to invest in a range of sizes.

Pack up room by room

Packing up room by room not only keeps the mammoth task of moving manageable, but it becomes a tick list that can help you feel as if you are progressing through the house. And of course, if boxes are categorised by room, locating items and unpacking the other end will be so much easier.

Depending on when you are planning to move, it’s a good idea to start with the things you use least. For example, if you have a spare or guest room, this could be the perfect place to start. Rooms such as your bathroom and kitchen should probably be packed last, as these rooms tend to house the most everyday items.

Keep the essentials handy

Picture this – you’ve spent all morning loading boxes, you’ve made it to the new house and could really do with a cup of tea before the next phase of moving begins. But where on earth did you put the kettle, tea bags and sugar?

Always keep a handy stash of essentials nearby of items you might need during the move. This could also include toilet paper, snacks, scissors and bin bags.

Pack the essentials last

No one likes living out of boxes. To move house efficiently, minimise the time you’ll spend rooting around for certain items by packaging all your essentials last. We’re talking about everyday items such as toiletries, work clothes, hair appliances and kitchen utensils.

Make sure these items are the last on the removal van and the first off. Put them straight into an accessible place so that no matter how much progress you make with unpacking, you know exactly where the important items are.

Don’t over-fill boxes

If you’ve invested in good quality moving boxes, it’s natural to want to get the most out of them. However, filling them to the brim might not be the best idea. Firstly, they may become very heavy and hard to lift. The last thing you need is a sore back!

Pack heavy items in small boxes and light items in larger boxes. If you are packing a box containing items of different weights, make sure the heavier items are packed first and then the lighter items at the top. This prevents the lighter items from being crushed and also means the heaviest items are being directly supported when being carried. Overfilling boxes will also prevent the boxes from stacking properly in the moving van.

Small items

They say good things come in small packages! It’s essential to wrap small and fragile items before packing them into boxes to ensure they are fully protected during the move. Wrapping items in tissue paper or bubble wrap is a great way to prevent breaking glasses, vases, mugs and more.

Once these items are wrapped you are ready to place them into the boxes – materials such as foam wrap or corrugated cardboard can be used to fill space in boxes and provide a protective layer between items.

Seal boxes and label

No one wants a box that is collapsing on them with all the contents falling out! Seal your boxes securely at the top and bottom with some strong tape. Opt for heavy-duty scotch tape or heavy-duty strong packaging tape. The best packing tape has a strong adhesive which can withstand the jolts and jostles that accompany moving and will protect the box and its contents.

Label your boxes using a thick marker pen with what it contains and the room it needs to be unpacked in. Clearly mark the outside of the boxes the way up it should be carried too. You’ll thank yourself later for labelling – particularly when you’re looking for that kettle!

How Using Self Storage can help you in your house move…

Moving home is no easy task. Looking into self storage companies that offer a range of flexible storage solutions to help make your house move hassle-free is important in allowing you to move house efficiently. If you are downsizing, moving in with someone, or your current furniture just won’t fit in your new home, simply store it with a reputable company like Currie Easy Self Storage until you have moved and then decide whether to keep it or sell it.

You can also use a storage unit if you are planning on decorating your new place before moving your items in, making it easier to tackle the DIY job list and giving it those personal touches to make it feel like home!

In addition to this, Currie also has van & car hire options to offer you a simple and flexible way to transport your personal goods to and from your local self-storage centre. This can be worked around your schedule at any time, taking the hassle out of your move!

Are you ready to embark on a life-changing adventure of long-term travel, exploring far-off lands and immersing yourself in different cultures? Travelling for an extended period can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it also comes with its unique challenges and responsibilities. One of the most significant challenges is what to do with all your belongings when you’re away for an extended time. We’ve created this guide to walk you through the benefits of using self storage when going on an extended trip, how to minimise your belongings efficiently, and how storage flexibility can be a game-changer for your travel plans.

Why Choose Long-Term Travel?

Long-term travel offers a unique opportunity to break away from the routine, gain new perspectives, and create lasting memories. According to a survey by the UK Office for National Statistics, an increasing number of Britons are choosing to explore the world for extended periods, with nearly 1.4 million people leaving the UK for a year or more in 2019.

Before diving into the logistics of long-term travel and storage, let’s explore why more and more people are drawn to this exciting way of life.

Long-term travel allows you to:

Immerse Yourself in New Cultures: Spend more time in one place, truly getting to know the local culture, customs, and people.

Learn and Grow: Traveling for an extended period provides opportunities for personal growth, learning new skills, and gaining a deeper understanding of the world.

Break Free from Routine: Escape the monotony of everyday life, break free from the 9-to-5 grind, and live life on your terms.

Create Lifelong Memories: Long-term travel creates memories that will last a lifetime and stories to share with friends and family.

Storage Flexibility: Adapting to Travel Changes

How does storage flexibility benefit my travel plans? Life is unpredictable, and travel plans can change. By renting a storage unit, you have the freedom to:

Extend Your Trip

The beauty of long-term travel is that sometimes, your adventures are just too good to end. Perhaps you discover a hidden gem of a destination, make new friends, or find a unique opportunity to immerse yourself even deeper in the local culture. Using a company like Now Self Storage, extending your journey is as easy as renewing your storage rental. Your belongings remain safe and waiting for your return.

Shorten Your Trip

On the flip side, life sometimes throws unexpected circumstances your way. Whether it’s a family emergency, work opportunity, or simply a change of heart, you might need to return home earlier than planned. Self storage offers the flexibility to access your items without incurring extra costs, making your transition smoother.

What to Store When Going on Long-Term Travel

What types of items do people typically store when going on long-term travel? When you’re preparing for an extended journey, it’s essential to consider which items are suitable for storage. 

Seasonal Clothing and Gear

If you’re travelling to diverse climates or plan to be away for an entire year or more, storing seasonal clothing and gear is a practical choice. This includes winter coats, heavy boots, ski equipment, and other weather-specific items. By storing these items, you free up space in your luggage for more travel-friendly essentials.

Furniture and Household Items

For individuals who plan to keep their homes or apartments while travelling, storing furniture and household items makes sense. This may include sofas, dining tables, chairs, and other pieces of furniture. 

Collectibles and Sentimental Items

Items with sentimental value, such as family heirlooms, photo albums, and childhood memorabilia, are often stored during long-term travel. These belongings hold immense sentimental worth, making it essential to keep them safe and secure. Many storage facilities offer climate-controlled units that are ideal for preserving the condition of sentimental items.

Sports Equipment

If you’re an active traveller who enjoys sports or outdoor activities, storing sports equipment can be a practical choice. Items like bikes, surfboards, golf clubs, and camping gear can take up a significant amount of space. Storing these items in a secure storage unit ensures they remain in excellent condition for your return.

Vehicle Storage

Some long-term travellers may choose to store vehicles they won’t be using during their journey. This includes cars, motorcycles, boats, and RVs. 

Digitise and Declutter

To further streamline your possessions:

Digitise your documents. Scan important documents, such as passports, birth certificates, and financial records, and store them securely online. This reduces the need for physical copies and ensures you have access to essential information from anywhere. Pack Light! Choose versatile clothing and pack light. Most destinations have access to laundry facilities, so you can keep your suitcase manageable.

The Benefits of Using Self Storage for Long-Term Travel

Why choose someone like Now Self Storage for your belongings? 

Security and Peace of Mind

The safety and security of your cherished possessions are paramount, especially when you’re away on your travels. All their locations offer state-of-the-art security measures and 24/7 monitoring to ensure your items remain in pristine condition.

Flexible Storage Solutions

They understand that your storage needs can vary greatly depending on the items you want to store. Offering a range of storage unit sizes to accommodate everything from a few boxes to an entire household. This flexibility ensures that you only pay for the space you need.

Cost-Effective Alternative

Long-term travel can be expensive, and renting a full-sized property while you’re away doesn’t make financial sense. Storing with a self storage company is a cost-effective alternative. You can rest assured that your belongings are safe without the burden of high rent or maintenance costs.

Embarking on long-term travel is an exciting and transformative experience. However, the logistics of storing your belongings can be a daunting task. Now Self Storage offers a flexible, secure, and cost-effective solution, allowing you to travel with confidence and peace of mind.