As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it seems that horror is in fashion.
According to independent foresight researcher and strategist Elodie Marceau, the trend of “Coping Horror” is rapidly gaining traction.
This phenomenon captures a cultural zeitgeist where, under the right conditions, fear can serve as a coping mechanism. It allows us to escape the mundane realities of our everyday lives.
From the rise of Apocalypsewear and Doom Dressing to the emergence of icons like Julia Fox as the “queen of Avant Apocalypse,” horror is influencing everything from fashion to entertainment. Popular media, including horror and true crime stories, tap into this paradox, transforming recreational fear into a means of confronting our realities.
A Vision of Our Future: Hope After Humanity
This year, Gemma Haigh’s project “Hope After Humanity“ at the RHS Chelsea Houseplant Studio encapsulated the essence of this trend.
Set in the year 2099, the installation presented a chilling vision of a future shaped by climate change, with temperatures projected to be 4 degrees Celsius hotter by the century’s end. In this evocative space—created from Malvern Garden Buildings—visitors were invited to reflect on the harsh realities of climate change.
The studio featured moody design elements inspired by apocalyptic narratives found in video games like “The Last of Us,” films such as “I Am Legend,” and novels like “Day of the Triffids.” The juxtaposition of serene surroundings against a backdrop of environmental decay serves as a powerful reminder of what we stand to lose.
Our Love Affair with the Occult
In 2024, the garden media trends report indicates that our culture’s fascination with the occult has moved to the ”It’s Serious” phase of the relationship. Investigations into darkness retreats and decaying places have captured the attention of all generations, particularly Gen Z. This demographic is driving viral content inspired by memorable scenes in shows like Netflix’s “Wednesday.”
With hashtags like #Gothgarden(ing), #VictorianGardens, #Halloweengardens, #Steampunk, and #Tombstonetourism gaining traction (over 430k posts collectively), our obsession with the macabre is flourishing. In fact, in 2024, we’re taking our fascination to the grave, exploring cemeteries as spaces for connection and creativity.
Upping the Allure of a Garden Escape
With the rise of horror-themed aesthetics and installations, why not transform your own garden space into a mini scarefest? Here are some tips to create an atmospheric garden escape that pays homage to the horror genre while serving as your personal refuge:
Choose the Right Ambiance
Opt for dim lighting with warm undertones to create a haunting atmosphere. Incorporate fairy lights or lanterns to evoke a mysterious glow, reminiscent of flickering candles in horror films. For inspiration, check out how this Breeze House has been transformed in the style of Harry Potter, complete with floating candles that cast an enchanting light—perfect for eerie storytelling or intimate gatherings.
Incorporate Eerie Décor
Think old furniture, cobwebs, and vintage props that echo the aesthetic of classic horror settings. Be inspired by this Stephen King deck and peacock chair styled by Paul Holt of N1 Garden Centre back in 2021 for the RHS Chelsea Houseplant Studios—the only year the show has taken place in the autumn.
Go Dark with Planting
Incorporate plants with darker hues to evoke a sense of mystery and enchantment. Varieties like ’Black Prince’ Snapdragon, Blood Red Sunflower, Black Peony Poppy, Black Cherry Floribunda Rose, and Hellebores ‘Pine Knots Select Strain’ offer an eerie aesthetic. Don’t forget about black tulips to complete the look!
Create a Themed Experience
Use your garden for seasonal scares! Halloween is becoming as big a celebration in the UK as it is in America, making it the perfect time to transform your outdoor space into a frightful wonderland. Set up a Halloween haunted house experience or host a horror-themed garden party. Your garden building could serve as a cosy retreat where guests can relax with hot drinks and discuss their favourite horror flicks.
Outdoor Scarefest
Use your garden for seasonal scares! Halloween is becoming as big a celebration in the UK as it is in America, making it the perfect time to transform your outdoor space into a frightful wonderland. Set up a Halloween haunted house experience or host a horror-themed garden party. Your garden building could serve as a cosy retreat where guests can relax with hot drinks and discuss their favourite horror flicks.
The Perfect Hideaway at the Bottom of the Garden
Interestingly, a recent survey reveals that one in three Brits believe garden sheds are the perfect spots to escape from partners or unwanted guests. These humble structures are sanctuaries for those seeking solitude—a place to enjoy peaceful moments, scroll through social media, or simply have some “me time” away from the hustle and bustle of home life.
In fact, Danny Robins uses a garden building to create his spine-tingling Uncanny podcasts. So why not transform your own garden building into a cosy horror hideaway?
After all, when life gets too scary, it’s good to have a little sanctuary at the bottom of the garden to escape the horrors—both real and imagined!
