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The right greenhouse styling ideas can turn it into more than just a haven for plants—it can be a focal point in your garden too. Design-wise, it can be any style you like, but sometimes keeping it simple can be as magical as anything more elaborate. And we’ve got some practical tips to get you started.
Paint It, but What Colours Work for Wooden Greenhouses?
Wood is nice as it is—it has a natural charm, but a splash of colour can liven it up. When it comes to the shade, greens and creams are a favourite. But since we want the greenhouse to pop, stick to schemes beyond your garden’s palette.
Is your outdoor space filled with greenery, timber, and natural elements? If so, you’ll want an exterior paint that stands out without clashing, such as:
- Muted contrast colours: Sage green with grey tones, charcoal or soft black, or muted navy.
- Earthy but strong: Deep olive or moss green, terracotta or clay tones, or soft mustard or ochre.
- Light neutrals (for brightness): Off-white or soft cream, or stone grey or pebble.
Now, if it’s the other way around, opt for bold colours like navy blue or deep green. For something softer, try dusty blue, sage, or rosewood. Or go bright with sunshine yellow, just be careful not to overdo it.
Tips: Lighter paints reflect light and are perfect if your greenhouse isn’t in full sun. Darker finishes may absorb it, so they’re better for bigger or brighter spaces. Bright tones are fun but might be best as accents, especially inside, rather than all over.
Work On the Interior with a Few Touches
A few ways to make it work:
- Install greenhouse shelving: Use slim, open shelves to maximise space. You can place your pot collection or even smaller plants. Multi-tiered designs also work for vertical growing, like this galvanised steel shelving unit. Set up a few if the space allows, and you’ll have a spot to showcase your plants or organise your essentials.
- Hooks for hanging: Fix them on the walls or ceiling to hold hanging plants in baskets or pots. The hooks are also great for holding watering cans, garden aprons, or hats. On the other side, use them to mount your hand tools, such as trowels and pruners, for easy access.
- Natural materials for storage: The more, the merrier! Old wooden crates are handy for keeping seed packets. Wicker baskets also work nicely as decorative planters.
- Furnish with garden furniture: A small seat or stool can give you a place to sit, rest, or admire your hard work. But if you can, we recommend setting up a bench. You can always place it next to the greenhouse outside if it won’t fit inside. This should help draw attention to the greenhouse.
- Add soft lighting: Run battery-powered string lights along the roof frame or shelves. This will give you a warm, cosy glow on dull days or when you’re pottering around in the evening. But don’t stop there—extend it outdoors with solar ones this time. At night, it turns into a gentle light source for your outdoor space.
You might be surprised how a few simple changes inside can transform the whole space. And yes, the interior is as important as the exterior, especially if you have a full glass greenhouse. Since it’s easy to see inside, it’s best to keep things tidy and organised.
Note: These interior decor ideas work for all greenhouses.
A Simple Path Goes a Long Way
Place a greenhouse anywhere in your garden and it’ll just sit there. But add a path, and it connects it to the rest of the space and makes it feel more intentional. Here are some options:
- Stepping stones through gravel or grass: The in-between layout keeps it natural. This gives you a clean, spaced-out route without taking over the space.
- Brick or reclaimed pavers: Lay them in a pattern like herringbone or stretcher bond. This trick will add visual interest.
- Timber sleepers: Laid flat or a bit raised, they look rustic and work well with greenery.
- Compacted gravel: Simple, tidy, and easy to maintain. Edge it with metal, brick, or timber to make it more finished and keep it from spilling into beds.
- Curved or winding: A subtle curve adds a sense of movement and draws the eye. This is especially useful if you have a larger garden where the greenhouse sits deeper in.
You can do this DIY or consult with a landscape expert for advice.
Link Your Greenhouse with the Rest of the Garden
The goal is to frame the structure. Surround the greenhouse with flower beds, shrubs, or raised planters. Go for plants that match what’s growing nearby, or mix herbs and edibles to soften the edges.
Take a look around. What materials have you already used in borders, fencing, or other features? Try to mirror those on or around the greenhouse. Say you’ve used Corten steel edging or timber cladding elsewhere. Bring the same materials near the garden building, in a planter box, frame, or small structure.
Ground covers, mulch borders, or edging strips get the job done too. Consider slate chippings or bark, which can run from one area right up to the base of the greenhouse. It pulls everything together—all these methods do!
Stay on top of maintenance, from painting to path care, and your greenhouse will look its best and add character to your garden. If you need more greenhouse styling ideas, read this guide next: Garden Greenhouse Ideas for Growing a Plant Paradise
Excited about getting a new greenhouse? Check out our greenhouse buying guide to get you started on making a new purchase.
