Outdoor Decor

The garden has become as important an entertaining area in the American home as the living room. In fact, the Garden Media Group, a division of IMPACT Marketing & PR Inc. of Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, says the garden has become the new American living room. Decorating outdoor space is no different than decorating the inside of a home. Just as simple, clutter-free indoor spaces are the trend today, the same holds true for the garden, terrace, and patio. Here's what the Garden Media Group tells us are "in" and "out" in gardens and garden decor.

Reality Gardens. Garden design should be kept real by reflecting the owner's personality, just as her living room does.

Simple Gardens. Don't overdo it. Simple, elegant combinations of flowers and plants create harmonious ensembles.

Full-Serve. Americans lead hectic lives; getting help to maintain the garden is okay.

Luxury Brands. Consumers are turning to high-end products to decorate. Objects such as fountains, garden art, and more expensive containers are big sellers.

Romantic. Soft, feminine, even glamorous looks are hot. Big containers filled with roses will create the proper ambience.

Classics. In a return to classic accessories, shoppers are looking for products that reflect traditional styles that will last for years.

Ideal Gardens. Homeowners don't want the hassle of trying to create and maintain the perfect garden.

Clutter. Less is more. Gardens should be an oasis to escape from the daily routine.

Self-Serve. Consumers don't need to do all the yard maintenance themselves. It's okay to hire help in the garden.

Bargain Brands. Sales for low end items are flat. Consumers are looking for more upscale pieces to make a statement in their outdoor spaces.

Pedestrian. Plain is out. Americans want to make their living spaces, including the yard, more elegant.

Trendy. Homeowners are turning away from trendy items like plastic pots that need replacing regularly. Classic, long-lasting materials and styles are in.