Maximalism has reigned supreme in landscaping for several years, championing a ‘more is more’ philosophy filled with dense flowers, unruly grasses, and wild plants. As people began outfitting their patios like cluttered living rooms, the aesthetic started to feel a bit overwhelming. Now, as the fresh energy of spring 2026 takes hold, Zooey Deschanel and Jonathan Scott’s backyard offers a refreshing, pared–back alternative.
We spotted their minimalist garden in the background of an Instagram post, showcasing a space that feels perfectly suited for the crisp air and new growth of the season. The design features a tidy brick patio flanked by small hedges, while strategically placed trees provide both shade and privacy as the days grow longer.
Article continues below
Shop the Relaxed Minimalism Garden Edit
Conrad Indoor/Outdoor Pillow
Elegant and thoughtfully detailed with intricate stripes and tassels, this pillow brings a warm, inviting feel to your relaxed patio. Soft to the touch yet durable enough for both indoor and outdoor use, it blends resilience with effortless style.
Wayfair is my favorite place to shop for outdoor furniture for its great quality and deals, and this piece is no exception. This piece offers a modern, modular approach to relaxed living, with a solid acacia wood frame and a low-profile silhouette that complements contemporary patios and decks beautifully.
Haviland Outdoor Lounge Chair with Perennials Taupe Stripe
At first glance, it feels simple, but the deep, weather-resistant cushions on this lounge chair feature a subtle taupe stripe that adds a refined layer of pattern to your outdoor seating.
The rattan and blue detailing on this beautiful outdoor chair feel effortlessly stylish and fresh. It makes a relaxed yet stunning accent piece, perfect for adding charm to a gazebo or patio (just like Zooey’s).
Marisol Indoor/Outdoor Dining Chair (Set of 2)
Offering a more boho aesthetic than previous outdoor drops from the brand, these handwoven all-weather wicker chairs will complete any patio. Also available as matching counter stools, these are a star piece in the collection.
Wood Caning Stackable Patio Chair Brown
This solid wood chair is a fantastic value, with woven cane details that add texture and visual interest. Stackable for easy off-season storage, it’s a stylish and practical choice (but be quick, looks like there’s just four left).
Design expert Shelley Cochrane explains: ‘Minimalism and neutral hues are defining the garden furniture trends. This is a natural evolution of our growing desire for calm spaces that evoke a connection to nature.’
This gardening style aligns perfectly with the increasing interest in planting for mental health, transforming the yard into a restorative sanctuary just in time for summer relaxation.
‘Minimalist design, with its clean lines and pared–back forms, creates a sense of visual serenity,’ Shelley states. ‘Outdoor spaces have become our sanctuary, and minimalist style supports that feeling of peace. It’s all about creating spaces that feel open, grounded, and effortlessly stylish. This trend isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about fostering a feeling of tranquillity through considered, uncluttered design.’
Even with the restrained planting seen in Zooey and Jonathan’s space, the gazebo and brick patio ensure the area remains a stylish hub for seasonal entertaining. The goal is not to abandon outdoor furniture entirely, but to select intentional pieces that blend into the landscape.
Shelley recommends using unobtrusive colors and shapes, noting: ‘Neutral tones – think soft greys, warm beiges, and muted greens – offer a timeless elegance that allows the beauty of the garden itself to take center stage. The furniture complements, rather than competes with the landscape.’
Minimalist gardens are the definitive look for 2026, requiring a keen eye for intentional styling that celebrates the quiet beauty of empty space. In modern backyard design, more is certainly not always more.
If you enjoy our celebrity news, then why not sign up to our newsletter so you never miss the latest stories?
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.homesandgardens.com ’
