When used in the proper setting with the right plants, garden arbors and benches can take outdoor living to a whole new level. View and print a larger version of this design.

Every home gardener deserves a quiet, restful place to sit and enjoy the beauty they’ve created. While anyone can pull up a folding chair on the patio, just imagine having a gorgeous seating area that’s actually part of your garden design.

Garden arbors and benches are as beautiful as they are functional. And when used in the proper setting with the right plants, they can take outdoor living to a whole new level.

It’s no secret that an arbor brings great vertical interest to the garden, helping to define an entryway, path or walkway, as well as serving as an attractive focal point in the back yard (as shown in this design). Add a climbing rose or flowering vine, and you have more than just architectural interest – you have a way to grow to new heights! A simple garden bench placed directly underneath your arbor allows you and your guests to rest or reflect in this enchanted garden space.

Planting screening trees next to and behind a decorative arbor adds privacy to your intimate seating area, as well as helps block unsightly views, like that of the compost bin, utility boxes or pool equipment. (And because privacy in the garden is one of the top three criteria home buyers and realtors look for in a landscape, such a design can help the overall look of your yard, as well as your property value!)

Consider adding a stepping-stone pathway or some attractive pavers that lead to your arbor and garden bench. This extra touch helps further define your space, and offers nice variety to an otherwise ordinary grassy yard. (Avoid straight paths when possible. Curves or unique patterns create more interest to a garden design.)

Even if your property isn’t large enough to include all the plantings in this particular plan, you can still create a gorgeous sitting area using containers and a few smaller plantings around a garden bench. As long as the plants you select are ones that fit the appropriate function in the design and will thrive under your particular property conditions (drought-tolerant plants for your drought-tolerant area, sun-loving species for sun-loving locations, etc.), you’ll be set to relax in an enchanting outdoor room surrounded in peaceful splendor.

Remember, when you shop for plants, pick the ones you like that match the functions identified on the plan!