Starting out
Your dream garden may be formed from the remains of a previous owner's ideas or from the ruins of your own efforts. Or, if you've just moved into a newly-constructed house, you may even be starting with a blank canvas.

Whatever your starting point, you need to decide what you want from your new garden. The first step is to make a scale drawing of your plot. The next stage will be choosing the planting and decorative styles. These days, there are a vast number of options, encompassing everything from a traditional cottage-style garden to an ultra-modern layout of hard landscaping. You also need to think about how you'll use the space. Do you long for lazy afternoons, sitting in the sunshine? Then make sure there's somewhere comfortable to sit. Do you have energetic kids? Then include an area where they can let off steam. Do you like to potter? Then maybe a greenhouse will be right for you. See Laying a Patio for more practical advice.

Adapt and improvise
Unless you are moving into a new-build, you'll have to decide what to do with plants and features already in the garden. It's tempting to raze everything to the ground and start afresh but be prepared to adapt what's already there. For example, a straggly group of shrubs might provide a much-needed note of maturity in your new planting scheme, once they've been properly pruned.

Private lives
For many of us, the garden is a place to get way from it all. And that means privacy. High fences will keep out prying eyes but they will cut down on natural light, too. Shrubs will form a softer boundary than fencing but, if they're not evergreen, remember that they won't be nearly so bushy in winter months.

Personal touch
Remember, it's your garden, so it needs your own touch. Visit public gardens, keep your eyes open while you're out walking, steal ideas from family and friends, hang out at the local garden centre: soak up inspiration wherever you find it.

Feeling inspired to indulge your patio further? Read Hot Patio Heaters for a review of the best patio heaters. For advice and inspiration on improving the great outdoors see Perk Up Your Patio, Stylish Outdoor Living and Repairing Paths, Drives and Steps.

For more information before you start, see the Marshalls website which is packed with tips and advice on revamping your garden. And don't forget to try the Patio Calculator if you're thinking about creating a patio or extending the one you've got!