There’s something truly magical about gardens that play with levels, isn’t there? The way they create a sense of depth and intrigue can take your breath away and make you feel like you’ve stepped into a living work of art.
From charming terraces to dramatic hillside landscapes, these gardens invite exploration and wonder. I’ve gathered 39 stunning examples that showcase the beauty of varying elevations, each with its own unique flair. Let’s dive into this delightful journey through nature’s tiered masterpieces!
My Top 39 Gardens With Different Levels
I’ve pulled together an extensive collection of ideas for you to take a look at below. If you see one you love, make sure you save it to Pinterest:
1) Modern Rustic Multilevel Flower Garden
This design beautifully combines vibrant black-eyed Susans and soft lavender, creating a lively yet serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. To replicate this look, incorporate layered stone elements and cozy seating areas surrounded by a mix of perennials and ornamental grasses.
2) Rustic Woodland Retreat with Seating
The harmonious blend of vibrant flowers like pansies and bluebells with rustic log seating creates an inviting woodland escape. For a similar look, incorporate native plants and natural materials to enhance the organic feel of your garden.
3) Modern Tiered Hosta Retreat Garden
This modern tiered garden showcases lush hostas and ornamental grasses, creating a serene retreat with varying heights that add depth and interest. To replicate this look, use raised beds for plant organization and incorporate gravel paths for a clean, contemporary finish.
4) Tropical Retreat with Monstera Plants
Lush monstera plants create a vibrant, tropical atmosphere, beautifully complemented by natural materials like bamboo and stone, enhancing the serene retreat feel. To achieve this look at home, incorporate large leafy plants and cozy seating areas to invite relaxation and connection with nature.
5) Modern Minimalist Succulent Terrace Garden
This modern terrace garden features striking succulents like agave and vibrant yellow foliage that create a stunning visual contrast against the minimalist white walls. To replicate this look, use well-draining soil, arrange plants in clusters, and incorporate natural stones for added texture.
6) Tiered Garden with Allium Blooms
This tiered garden features elegant allium blooms, creating a stunning focal point against the lush greenery and structured hedges. To replicate this look, combine low-maintenance boxwood hedges with seasonal flowering plants, and include a cozy seating area for relaxation.
7) Modern Desert Succulent Staircase Garden
The sleek white staircase, adorned with vibrant succulents like agave and cacti, creates a stunning contrast against the minimalist backdrop. Incorporating gravel and strategic lighting enhances the serene ambiance, perfect for achieving a modern desert oasis at home.
8) Modern Multi-Level Flower Garden
This modern multi-level flower garden beautifully combines vibrant yellow daisies and pink petunias with natural wood elements for a warm, inviting feel. To replicate this look, incorporate raised beds and a mix of perennials for year-round color, while adding comfortable seating for relaxation.
9) Modern Desert-Inspired Staircase Garden
The striking combination of agave and cacti against a backdrop of warm wood creates a modern, inviting atmosphere perfect for desert landscapes. To replicate this look, use drought-tolerant plants and incorporate gravel for easy maintenance while adding visual interest.
10) Elevated Lavender Stone Terrace Garden
This design beautifully combines the calming hues of lavender with the earthy tones of stone, creating a tranquil outdoor retreat. To replicate this look, incorporate low-maintenance plants like lavender and ornamental grasses, and use natural stone for raised beds and pathways.
11) Mediterranean Terraced Herb and Olive Garden
This terraced garden features vibrant olive trees and aromatic herbs like lavender and rosemary, creating a serene Mediterranean atmosphere. To replicate this look, use terracotta pots and gravel pathways to enhance earthy tones and complement the greenery.
12) Desert Oasis with Succulents and Steps
This garden beautifully combines succulents like agave and vibrant pink flowers, creating a tranquil desert oasis. To replicate this look, use gravel for drainage and select drought-tolerant plants for easy maintenance.
13) Modern Tiered Succulent Retreat
This modern tiered garden features a harmonious blend of succulents and ornamental grasses, creating a serene retreat that invites relaxation. Incorporate concrete planters and cozy seating with decorative pillows to achieve a similar inviting atmosphere at home.
14) Tiered Vegetable and Herb Garden
This tiered garden showcases a harmonious blend of vibrant herbs and vegetables, such as kale and basil, framed by rustic stone pathways. Incorporate raised beds and varied heights to maximize space and create visual interest, while ensuring easy access for maintenance.
15) Tiered Floral Patio with Aspens
The tiered design beautifully incorporates vibrant blooms like petunias and marigolds, creating a stunning visual contrast against the natural stone steps. To replicate this look, consider using native plants alongside decorative elements like rustic seating and natural wood accents for a cohesive feel.
16) Contemporary Desert Oasis with Succulents
This contemporary garden features striking succulents and cacti, creating an inviting oasis with low water needs. Incorporate natural stone elements and a minimalist seating area to enhance the serene atmosphere.
17) Contemporary Succulent Terrace Garden
The design beautifully integrates a variety of succulents and cascading greenery, creating a serene oasis that thrives in a contemporary setting. To replicate this look, use low-maintenance plants like echeverias and string of pearls, and incorporate textured seating for a cozy touch.
18) Modern Succulent Terrace with Steps
The striking combination of agave, yucca, and vibrant orange planters creates a contemporary yet inviting atmosphere, perfect for a modern garden. To replicate this look, incorporate varied textures and colors while utilizing steps for visual interest and accessibility.
19) Modern Minimalist Terraced Garden Space
This modern minimalist terraced garden features soft textures and muted colors, showcasing lush grasses and elegant pillows that invite relaxation. To achieve a similar ambiance, incorporate low-maintenance plants like ornamental grasses and use neutral-toned seating for a cohesive look.
20) Modern Terraced Garden with Alliums
This modern terraced garden features striking alliums and lush boxwood hedges, creating a harmonious balance of shapes and textures. To replicate this look, incorporate layered plantings and a decorative bench for inviting seating.
21) Tiered Stone Garden with Foxgloves
The tiered stone structure beautifully showcases tall, elegant foxgloves, creating a stunning vertical display that draws the eye upward. Incorporate rustic stone elements and a cozy seating area with intricate metal furniture to achieve a charming, inviting atmosphere.
22) Modern Elevated Deck with Hostas
The harmonious blend of lush hostas and elegant hydrangeas creates a serene retreat, beautifully framed by warm wooden decking and soft lighting. To replicate this look, choose shade-tolerant plants and incorporate multi-level planters for added dimension and interest.
23) Modern Tiered Garden with Evergreens
This modern tiered garden beautifully integrates evergreens and soft grasses, creating a serene, layered effect that invites relaxation. To replicate this look at home, consider using boxwoods for structure and low-growing ground covers for lush greenery between levels.
24) Modern Tiered Garden with Daisies
This modern tiered garden features vibrant daisies and cheerful marigolds, creating a lively contrast against the natural wood planters. To replicate this look, incorporate layered planting with a mix of perennials and annuals for continuous color and texture.
25) Rustic Stone Terrace with Daisies
The rustic stone terrace is beautifully complemented by cheerful daisies, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxation. To achieve this look, incorporate natural stone elements and plant low-maintenance flowers like daisies alongside sturdy wooden seating.
26) Rocky Hillside Garden with Wildflowers
This hillside garden beautifully blends rugged stones with vibrant wildflowers like California poppies and forget-me-nots, creating a natural yet inviting aesthetic. To replicate this look, incorporate native plants that thrive in rocky conditions and use natural materials like wood for seating to enhance the organic feel.
27) Modern Tiered Garden with Boxwoods
This modern tiered garden beautifully combines structured boxwoods with soft, fragrant herbs like lavender, creating a striking contrast in colors and textures. To replicate this look, consider using dark wood materials for planters and pathways, and incorporate low-maintenance plants for a chic yet effortless aesthetic.
28) Modern Desert Oasis with Succulents
This garden features striking succulents like agave and barrel cacti, perfectly paired with soft gravel paths that create a serene oasis. To replicate this look, incorporate drought-tolerant plants and natural stone elements for texture and visual interest.
29) Rustic Stone Steps with Foxgloves
The charming rustic stone steps, adorned with vibrant foxgloves and delicate white blooms, create a welcoming transition into a serene garden space. To replicate this look, consider incorporating layered plantings with varying heights and a mix of colorful perennials for visual interest and seasonal appeal.
30) Modern Multi-Level Boxwood Garden
This modern garden features sleek black steps and lush boxwood hedges, creating a striking contrast that enhances the contemporary aesthetic. For a similar look, incorporate multi-level plantings and use durable materials like wood and stone for seating and pathways.
31) Serene Modern Rock Garden Retreat
This serene modern rock garden features lush ferns and ornamental grasses, creating a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Incorporate natural stone pathways and a simple wooden bench to achieve a harmonious retreat in your own space.
32) Modern Terraced Lavender and Stone Garden
The harmonious blend of lavender and stone creates a serene atmosphere, while the warm wooden bench invites relaxation amidst the lush greenery. To replicate this look, incorporate low-maintenance plants like lavender and choose natural stone materials for a modern yet timeless appeal.
33) Mediterranean Terrace with Olive Tree
This design beautifully incorporates a mature olive tree alongside fragrant lavender, creating a serene Mediterranean atmosphere perfect for relaxation. To achieve this look, use terracotta tiles and vibrant planters filled with colorful flowers for a lively yet harmonious space.
34) Elevated Contemporary Retreat with Pathways
The garden features lush greenery interspersed with native grasses and fragrant herbs, creating a serene, inviting atmosphere. For a similar retreat, consider using low-maintenance ground covers like creeping thyme and installing natural stone pathways to enhance visual interest.
35) Elevated Formal Garden with Alliums
This elevated formal garden showcases a harmonious blend of lush greenery and striking alliums, creating a serene and structured atmosphere. To replicate this look, incorporate neatly trimmed boxwood hedges and a decorative bench amidst flowering perennials for an inviting focal point.
36) Mediterranean Terraced Herb Garden
The warm terracotta steps beautifully contrast with lush herbs like lavender and thyme, creating a fragrant ascent that invites exploration. Incorporate rustic pots and a mix of ornamental plants to enhance the Mediterranean charm in your own garden.
37) Tropical Modernist Elevated Garden Retreat
The harmonious blend of lush tropical plants, like monstera and ferns, creates a serene retreat accentuated by warm wood tones and natural stone. To replicate this look, incorporate layered greenery and cozy seating, enhancing the space with ambient lighting for a magical evening atmosphere.
38) Modern Succulent Terrace with Seating
This modern terrace beautifully combines lush succulents and architectural seating, creating a tranquil retreat perfect for relaxation. To replicate this look, incorporate a variety of succulents and use comfortable cushions for added style and comfort.
39) Formal Boxwood and White Rose Garden
The elegant symmetry of boxwood hedges paired with the delicate white roses creates a timeless, sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for serene outdoor moments. To achieve this look at home, consider using compact boxwood varieties and mixing in white flowering plants for a fresh, cohesive palette.
Tips and Tricks for Gardens With Different Levels
You’ve seen my top Gardens With Different Levels, but here are some tips and tricks you’ll want to follow to achieve these looks:
- Embrace terracing: Create distinct levels in your garden by building terraces. This not only helps in managing steep slopes but also provides unique areas for planting various types of vegetation.
- Use retaining walls: Incorporate retaining walls to hold back soil and create a structure for different garden levels. Choose materials that complement your overall garden design, such as stone, brick, or timber.
- Incorporate steps and pathways: Design steps or winding pathways to connect different levels seamlessly. Using materials like stone, wood, or gravel can add texture and depth while ensuring safe navigation through the garden.
- Choose appropriate plants for each level: Select plants that thrive at different heights and conditions of each level. Use taller plants for higher elevations and shorter, ground-cover plants for lower areas to create visual interest.
- Utilize vertical gardening: Maximize space by incorporating vertical gardening techniques, such as wall-mounted planters or trellises. This can add dimension to your garden and allow for growing climbing plants.
- Integrate water features: Consider adding a water feature, like a fountain or pond, at a lower level to create a focal point. The sound of water can enhance the tranquility of the garden and attract wildlife.
- Incorporate seating areas: Create cozy seating areas at various levels to encourage relaxation and enjoyment of the garden. Use benches, swings, or even stone seating to complement different height zones.
- Implement lighting creatively: Use lights to highlight different levels in the garden. Consider solar-powered lights along pathways or spotlights on plants to create an inviting ambiance during the evening.
- Add decorative elements: Incorporate decorative elements such as sculptures, garden art, or decorative pots to enhance aesthetic appeal at different levels. These can serve as eye-catching focal points throughout the space.
- Consider drainage solutions: Ensure proper drainage on each level to prevent water pooling and erosion. Implementing drainage systems, like French drains or gravel beds, will help maintain the health of your garden.