French impressionist Claude Monet, whose paintingMeules (Haystacks)sold for a record-breaking $110.7 million from Sotheby’s in 2019, was a renowned gardener and horticulturist. This master of art was credited as saying, “My garden is my most beautiful masterpiece,” and his garden in Giverny, France, a beloved tourist destination, is rich with flower beds, lily pads and lush vegetation. For Monet, gardening was a soul-enriching respite and an opportunity to experience awe throughout the year. Just as Monet captured the magic of the natural world within his garden, homeowners today can merge form, function and beauty to create dynamic works of art within their back yard. But gardens are not one-size-fits-all. Just as personal tastes vary in interior design, garden styles reflect regional climates and aesthetic preferences. From the dreamy romance of English gardens to the minimalist serenity of Japanese landscapes, there’s a style to match every proclivity and every yard. Below are five timeless garden styles that offer their own unique kind of sanctuary.
English
The classic English garden embraces an artful blend of structure and spontaneity with overflowing flower beds, gently curving paths, climbing roses and a sense of romantic disorder that feels curated rather than chaotic. Inspired by 18th-century paintings, this landscape often incorporates elements such as low stone walls, wrought-iron gates and tucked-away benches. The favored plants for this style include lavender, foxgloves, delphiniums and boxwood hedges.
French
Symmetry, precision and grandeur exemplify the French garden. Rooted in Renaissance and baroque traditions, this style celebrates human control over nature, as seen in the formal gardens of Versailles with its meticulous hedges, parterre designs, reflecting pools and gravel walkways. Geometry plays a starring role, and topiary is often used to dramatic effect. Plants are chosen as much for their shape and discipline as for their color, and pathways are often laid out in axis lines to draw the eye to fountains or sculptures.
Japanese
Tranquility is the defining feature of a Japanese garden. These contemplative landscapes aim to evoke the essence of nature rather than replicate it. Every stone, lantern and tree is placed with intention to encourage mindfulness and reflection. Asymmetry, negative space and natural materials create harmony. Water is a central motif and takes the form of koi ponds, raked gravel or gently trickling fountains. Moss, bamboo, maples and evergreens offer subtle seasonal variation, while bridges and stepping stones invite quiet exploration.
Mediterranean
Inspired by the sun-drenched landscapes of southern Europe, the Mediterranean garden is effortlessly chic. This style thrives in dry, hot climates and embraces hardy, drought-tolerant plants such as olive trees, lavender, rosemary and succulents. Terracotta pots, gravel paths and painted tiles add texture and warmth, while pergolas or vine-draped arbors provide welcome shade. Mediterranean spaces often feel relaxed and rustic. Herbs and fruit trees often double as ornamental and edible features, making this style as practical as it is beautiful.