Japanese Zen Gardens And Water Feature Ideas

Have you ever noticed how a clutter-free room or area instantly makes you feel at ease? The clean lines and open space, with everything neatly tucked into its rightful place, has a certain zen quality about it. And you can extend this feeling to the design of your garden as well.

WATCH: Charlie and Graham's zen garden makeover

Zen gardens are minimalist by design. To achieve a minimalist look, it's important to pare back the elements and include only the necessary details. Adding only what is needed and removing the rest has always been the focus in traditional zen gardens, so the fusion of these two styles is a natural step.

Zen garden makeover details

Sue Ferris

Sue Ferris

Want more zen garden inspiration? Here are nine design ideas to steal from a tranquil garden in Sydney.

Philodendron, zoysia and agave planted in a zen garden in Sydney

Phil Aynsley

1. Choose a focal point

You don't need to crowd a space with plants and ornaments to create a scene. Here, the circular lines of the metal sculpture and surrounding topiary balls provide a striking visual contrast when viewed with the straight and narrow bamboo stems.

Phil Aynsley

2. Embrace potted succulents

Succulents top the list when it comes to plants with bold forms and intriguing textures – ideal for minimalist gardens.

Try planting in pots and grouping together for maximum impact.

Succulents in various different garden pots

Phil Aynsley

3. Plant a fast-growing bamboo privacy hedge

A bamboo hedge is perfect if you need a privacy screen quickly.

Try Slender Weavers bamboo – it's fast growing and can reach up to 6m.

Fast growing privacy bamboo hedge next to a lawn

Phil Aynsley

4. Select a plant palette

Minimalist gardens call for a simple plant palette. Select a few and repeat them throughout the design.

Look for plants with attractive foliage shapes or patterns, like agave and philodendron.

Phil Aynsley

WATCH: Graham visits Cowra Japanese Garden

5. Install an open screen

For a sense of privacy without compromising the view of the garden, consider an 'open screen'.

In this design, a series of custom-made lampposts enclose the entertaining area, while providing more than a glimpse of the sculpture garden and beautifully manicured lawn.

Phil Aynsley

6. Consider plant silhouettes

Keep plantings simple and purposeful.

Here, the architectural silhouettes of philodendron, agave and monstera complement the clean lines of the paving and adjacent deck.

Agave and philodrendron planted in a zen inspired garden

Phil Aynsley

7. Don't forget vertical lines

There's beauty to be found in simplicity. A single feature tree, like Gleditisia 'Sunburst', underplanted with mounds of fine-leafed Zoysia tenuifolia, provides the courtyard with an enchanting vertical accent.

It also creates a balance of positive and negative space, to help inspire a sense of quietude.

Phil Aynsley

8. Pavers and ground covers are match made in heaven

Even pavers can be turned into a feature by planting a row of low growing grass like Zoysia tenuifolia along the edges. Try varying the patterns and lengths of plantings for added appeal.

Zoysia grass growing between concrete pavers

Phil Aynsley

9. Colour

A pop of colour makes a strong focal point in a space of white and green.

This fabulous zen-inspired minimalist garden was designed by Art in Green.

Phil Aynsley

Gardener's tips

Set yourself boundaries and don't overlook them, especially when it comes to the use of colour in the overall design. You will need to limit your palette, so choose wisely. Neutral colours work best, like white, charcoal, brown and green, as they are calming and understated.
Limiting the number of hardscaping materials will help achieve a simple, clean look. The juxtaposition of these materials, like a timber boardwalk against concrete pavers, will create visual impact.
Ensure all lines are well defined, whether it's garden edging or clipped hedges. There's no room for poor workmanship as it will detract from the minimalist effect.
Choose plants with bold forms and intriguing textures – agaves, clumping bamboos, frangipanis and succulents.

Charlie Albone

Charlie has worked internationally and in Australia for the past 17 years, designing and building gardens that are timeless, inspiring and enjoyable to spend time in. In 2015 and 2016, he was awarded two Silver gilt medals for his own gardens at the world's most prestigious flower show The Chelsea Flower Show.