Garden design is a fascinating area. Not only does it reflect the architectural style of the house, it gives us an insight into the likes and dislikes of the owners. It is particularly exciting at the moment, because garden design - like fashion - is beginning to break traditional rules, and almost anything goes. Designers are working with a range of new materials, bringing a fresh palette of color and contrast to the garden. The results can be astounding. Natural swimming ponds are coming into vogue, topiary and old forgotten shrubs are enjoying a revival, and herbaceous borders are taking on a new and delightful élan. The latest trend is for garden lighting, to enhance the area around the house and to give the night garden a charm all of its own.

BDLA Landscape architect Ulrich Timm was for many years Gardens Editor at SCHÖNER WOHNEN (Beautiful Living) Magazine and is the author of several books on the subject of trends in landscape architecture. He describes the latest trends and ideas in a way we can all understand and enjoy. Gary Rogers is a renowned garden photographer from New Zealand, and has captured on camera some of the loveliest gardens to be seen today.