CLASSIC GARDEN - harmonious, lush and idyllic
The classic garden is something you likely recognize as soon as you see it, as many associate it with childhood summers. In contrast to the more modern and sleek Nordic garden, it has a more romantic and soft appearance – think of a Norwegian archipelago idyll.

Designing a classic garden is about balancing tradition and romance. This garden stands out with its timeless beauty and ability to adapt to the specific conditions of the local environment.
Elements like water, perhaps in the form of a small pond, contribute to a sense of peaceful tranquility.
How to create a classic garden
To achieve the classic style in the garden, you can start with a base of natural materials, light colors, and traditional plants. Plan the garden to be the perfect place for long, bright summer evenings. Include comfortable seating and soft lighting elements.
- Outdoor furniture and materials
Furnish with white and beige garden furniture in wood or rattan. Add accents of blue in cushions and throws.
- Paths and stairs
An important part of the classic garden is stairs and paths. These should be well-defined, preferably with edging stones or low hedges.
- Seasonal adaptation
Choose plants and flowers that alternate through the season and can withstand the Nordic climate. Geraniums are an excellent choice as they are true classics and bloom beautifully all summer.
- Pots
Planting in outdoor pots suits the style, and it also makes it easy to reorganize and bring plants inside when the cold arrives.
- Water in the garden
If the garden faces a lake, you automatically get the feeling of a summer idyll. However, if you don’t have access to water, you can create a garden pond or add a fountain to create a cozy atmosphere.
- Aesthetics and functionality
Combine practical elements such as planting boxes, sunshades over the patio, or composting solutions with aesthetically pleasing design to create a garden that is both beautiful and functional.
By integrating these elements, the garden will not only be a retreat for relaxation but also a natural extension of the Norwegian landscape.

Popular plants in a classic garden
Here are some examples of plants that fit well in a classic garden:
- Geraniums
Classic summer flowers that bloom beautifully throughout the season.
- Roses
The symbol of romance, perfect for a classic garden.
- Lavender
Offers a fragrant, calming effect and adds beautiful blue-purple tones.
- Peonies
Large, colorful flowers that are a favorite in many gardens.
- Hydrangeas
Known for their large flower clusters and ability to change color depending on the soil’s pH.
- Delphinium
Tall plants with spectacular flowers, ideal for creating height in the garden.
- Clematis
A climbing plant that can grow on fences or pergolas.
- Tulips
A must-have for spring, available in many different colors.
- Lilies
Elegant and colorful, with impressive blooms.
- Foxglove
Tall spikes of flowers, suitable for the back of flower beds.
- Lilac
Produces beautiful flowers and a lovely fragrance in spring, great as a free-growing hedge.
- Bleeding heart
Charming, heart-shaped flowers that create a romantic feel.
- Hosta
Ideal for shady areas, with beautiful foliage.
- Aquilegia
Low-maintenance plants that often self-seed.
- Chrysanthemums
Bushes with large, white flower clusters with perfectly round flowers.
- Hardy chrysanthemums
A late-summer favorite in classic gardens.
- Honeysuckle
A fragrant climbing plant perfect for creating lovely garden corners.
- Echinacea
Vibrant flowers that attract butterflies and bees.
- Catmint
Easy to care for and gives a relaxed feel with its lavender-like flowers.
These plants are timeless and popular choices that help tie the style together.

Colors and shapes in a classic garden
The classic garden is characterized by a light color palette. White and beige tones are combined with blue accent colors to create an inviting atmosphere. The natural green shades from plants and trees provide the perfect backdrop.
The shapes are often symmetrical, straight, and organized to give a sense of structure. Round shapes in ponds or flower beds can soften and add a romantic touch.
Combine various materials and textures to create depth. Classic white-painted wooden furniture or pieces made from natural-colored rattan, along with stone elements, provide a rustic feel. At the same time, soft textiles add comfort and invite relaxation.

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