When I was a little girl one of the most fun things to do aside from yearning for a puppy, was to create special spaces where I could occasionally hide away from the world and read, plan and dream. They usually occurred outdoors and often took the shape of a fort or hut. Kids are naturally drawn to a place where they can control their own worlds. Ever ask how much they love treehouses, tents or blanket forts. Created is a zone where for a bit of time they are alone and are in control of their environment. The outdoors is perfect for this. Hopefully all of us never lose that childlike sense of wonder. As grownups, we still have that need for a private space and again – out in nature is an excellent locale.

Fittingly, Secret Gardens would provide a strong sense of enclosure and separation from the rest of the world, you know, Secret! Beyond that requirement, the reasons can be many — an area to meditate, read, practice yoga or just be. They become the perfect opportunity to utilize little used areas or create an ‘Outdoor Room’. What a great chance to enjoy and observe nature. But perhaps you want yours for relaxation or napping? How about a separate space for hot tub? Or could be your choice is a special vegetable or herb garden or doing yoga or all three!

Maybe, just maybe, you want to create an exclusive front courtyard that is only visible if someone comes right to your main door.

Whatever your reason for a Secret Garden, I highly Secret Gardens recommend having at least one place in your yard developed as a separate room that ideally cannot be immediately viewed upon first seeing your yard.

Consider any site that is under-utilized, seldom seen, or a nook you’ve used as a catch-all for junk. It could even be where all your gas & electrical meters are congregated such as a side yard. How about a space between a garage or shed and a house or a fence or even behind a garage or shed?

Maybe you’ll want to create a berm or raised area either natural or utilizing soil and or boulders, or manmade using bricks. A side yard slope terraced to allow for raised vegetable beds. Use the berm to act as a border or camouflage for a secret garden or both.

-Denise Balcaen