North-facing garden ideas – 24 ways to make the best of a shady spot

A tapestry of green planting adds long-lasting interest and makes a very restful combination. On first appearance, a dark corner might appear gloomy and unwelcoming, but when filled with lush foliage it’s transformed into a calm and inviting space.

‘Shade loving plants like lush green ferns, Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra) and tree ferns (Dicksonia antarctica) are a great solution for shady spaces,’ says garden designer Tom Massey. ‘Green foliage and white flower tones generally work well in shady areas too, helping to brighten the gloom.’  

This compact north-facing garden by Tom flows out from the Crittall doors of a Petersen brick clad extension, opening onto a polished concrete terrace and pathway through lush planting. Grasses and ferns spill out of bespoke Corten steel planters, a verdant and exotic feel achieved with the use of large tree ferns.