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Sunken Garden Backyard featuring recessed design, terraced walls, sheltered space - garden design ideas and inspiration

The primary outdoor living area behind the residence for recreation and relaxation

Last Updated: November 28, 2025
3 min read

Key Sunken Garden Backyard Design Elements

Sunken Garden design brings recessed beauty, terraced walls, and dimensional interest to your backyard. This garden style creates a versatile outdoor living area that perfectly balances aesthetics with functionality.

Plant Palette: Cascading plants, terraced plantings, varied heights
Hardscape Materials: Natural stone, pavers, quality outdoor furniture
Style Features: recessed garden design, terraced retaining walls, sheltered microclimate
Essential Backyard Elements: spacious layout, open area, lawn space, entertainment zones
Color Scheme: Cool Slate, Warm Stone, Emerald Green
Maintenance Level: Moderate

How to Achieve the Sunken Garden Backyard Look

1

Start with Structure

Begin with hardscape elements like Natural stone. This creates the bones of your sunken garden backyard before adding plants.

2

Choose Plants Wisely

Select cascading plants that thrive in your climate. Sunken Garden design emphasizes quality over quantity.

3

Layer Your Design

Create depth by layering plants at different heights. Start with groundcovers, add mid-height perennials, and anchor with taller specimens appropriate for your backyard.

4

Consider Seasons

Plan for year-round interest by selecting plants with different bloom times and evergreen structure. Sunken Garden gardens should look beautiful in every season.

5

Add Finishing Touches

Complete your backyard with lighting, seating, and decorative elements that enhance usability and ambiance.

Sunken Garden Backyard Inspiration

Sunken Garden garden design has become a popular landscape style and has become increasingly popular for backyard spaces. This style emphasizes Recessed Design and Terraced Walls. When designing your sunken garden backyard, focus on creating harmonious plant combinations, thoughtful hardscape placement, and attention to detail while respecting the functional needs of your backyard.

**Perfect for**: Backyard spaces seeking sunken garden character

**Works well with**: complementary garden styles and modern outdoor living spaces

**Best climate**: adaptable to most climates

**Water needs**: Moderate

Sunken Garden Backyard Budget Guide

Budget-Friendly

$3,000 - $8,000

Essential plants, basic hardscape, DIY installation. Focus on native plants and repurposed materials.

Mid-Range

$8,000 - $25,000

Quality plants and materials, professional design, partial DIY. Includes irrigation system and good hardscape.

Luxury

$25,000 - $75,000+

Premium plants, custom hardscape, full professional installation. Includes lighting, water features, and premium materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Sunken Garden Backyard Landscape Ideas & Photos (2025) | StagePro AI | StagePro AI