Wow a clean slate
so many ideas
I would look through some books and magazines to find my style
make a list of what you like colors? types?
Start with some focus or hardscape
path, fence , birdbath , tree,
then plant around the focus
plan one or two garden areas the first year , as you learn plants you will learn what you like
Cottage gardens have almost no rules
start a journal
good luck good gardening
