Have you noticed that items that you would traditionally use indoors are finding their way into your garden?

Items such as wall ornaments, sculptures, benches, swings and unusual containers all create interest and a homey atmosphere. Outdoor decorations have to be of durable construction, so select displays of lasting metals, stone, baked clays or simulated woods to survive the elements.

Much outdoor interest is also generated through the landscape designs that often include vignette gardens full of unusual plants and ornaments displayed within easy view.

Some design Asian themed gardens with flowering plants, tropical foliage and brightly glazed containers. To capture even more attention, you might include a water feature of a carved stone mortar from Java that’s ideal for floating blossoms.

What types of items have you begun to use outdoors that you would never have thought of using outside 5 or 10 years ago?