What Is The ‘Fifth Room’ Garden Trend?

The spring weather might be a little unpredictable, but you can bet that we’ll all be lounging outside soon enough – which means it’s time for a bit of an outdoor refresh, courtesy of the ‘fifth room’ garden trend. Here’s the rundown.

The ‘Fifth Room’ Garden Trend, Explained

With the much-anticipated arrival of spring comes the sudden need to make sure your garden is in good shape – whether you’re planning a lavish dinner party or you just want a sunny spot in which to enjoy your morning coffee. But is garden design really as important as your interiors? And how do you get it right?

This is where the idea of the ‘fifth room’ comes in. Just as the ceiling is seen as the ‘fifth wall’ in interior design – providing untapped decorating potential – the garden isn’t separate to your home, but a valuable extension of it. 

Barker & Stonehouse

‘Many homeowners now see the garden as an extra room in their home, particularly as a reflection of their personal style,’ explains Katie Rushworth, TV presenter and garden maker.  ‘In the five years since the pandemic, we’ve come to appreciate the outdoors more than ever, adapting outside spaces to our changing lifestyles.’

So, whether you’re working with a cosy terrace, a shaded patio or a sprawling lawn, your garden really is a vital dimension of your home design, giving you the chance to express yourself and create a space that you love. ‘We’re seeing homeowners make deliberate, long-term investments in their gardens, such as creating dedicated relaxation zones,’ says Clair Albone, gardening expert at Wickes. ‘This reflects a fundamental shift in how we perceive our outdoor spaces; they’re no longer just an afterthought, but an extension of the home that enhances both our lives and our property value.’

East London Parasol Company

How To Transform Your Garden Into The Ultimate ‘Fifth Room’

Gardens might be more important than ever, but they’re not just reserved for manicured flower beds and gorgeous blooms; major trends are all about wellness areas (think meditation spaces and outdoor baths) and, of course, places to socialise and entertain. In fact, 36 percent of homeowners surveyed in Wickes’ recent garden report say that they now entertain in their gardens far more than they did ten years ago – and nearly 71 percent plan to invest up to £10,000 in their outdoor spaces over the next five years. ‘Move over prize-winning roses,’ says Katie. ‘These days, it’s statement lighting and glowing firepits that steal the spotlight.’ 

But how do you take your garden to the next level? Plenty of homeowners are turning to significant investments like pergolas, outdoor sofas, cabins and even home bars to create a showstopping – and sociable – space.  The Wickes experts also note, however, that more minor additions like patio heaters and portable lamps will help you nail al fresco entertaining, while clever touches like mirrors tucked away in raised beds can make smaller gardens feel more spacious. Finish things off with twinkling LED lights and a few outdoor cushions, and your enviable ‘fifth room’ is complete.

Featured image courtesy of Cox & Cox. coxandcox.co.uk