Unique Landscape Design

What is a unique landscape?

Unusual, not expected, sensational, inspiring, this is our definition of a unique landscape or landscape beauty that elicits a mental/emotional response. Not only beautiful, a unique landscape should fulfill and exceed the requirements and dreams of the client, the site and the home. Design experience, understanding, knowledge of materials and construction methods as well as experience in the execution and maintenance of landscape gardens are what one should look for in a great landscape designer that has the ability to create a unique landscape.

What makes for great design?

The homes relationship with the property and the properties relationship to surrounding homes, easements, streets and trees are the site context. These are the spatial relationships of use areas to include future wants and needs and the sequence of spaces from inside the home to the outside of the home. What is the walk experience from the street to the front door? Is there a clear distinction of spaces or rooms in the back yard and does the space tell you what its use is? Great architecture should articulate space meaning “tell the perceiver were to go and how to travel through the space.” This statement couldn’t be more true for landscape designers in creating a unique landscape.

What does great space have to do with selecting materials and building a garden?

Choosing appropriate hardscape and landscape materials to define space and the garden is were the actual unique garden is created. Materials can have a wonderful blend with architectural materials or contrast them creating a complimentary effect with the home. There are three components of selecting hardscape; patio or deck materials which are scale, color and texture. In regards to scale, you need to know what uses you are intending to accommodate. Color can be used to either compliment the finishes inherent in the home or contrast with it similar to material selection discussed above. Texture is the final detail selection in the hardscape. Textural details can accent back to the architecture. This is done by contrasting materials which define spaces and as a finishing touch add warmth and intimacy. In designing the landscape planting we also utilize the same elements of scale, color and texture. Laying out landscape planting is done much like a painting arranging plantings in groupings and masses with contrasting colors and textures.

Should the landscape style match the style of the house?

The landscape style does not have to be an exact replica of the homes architectural style it can reflect other styles while still being sympathetic to the homes architecture and entries. Regardless of the architectural style the use of space should reflect today’s lifestyles which include integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces. Often times even a classical landscape design or formal landscape design will have a contemporary approach in terms of how the spaces are utilized for today’s busy lifestyles i.e. low maintenance and cleaner finishes. A modern home with its sleek lines often times is not carried out into the garden and the update may include the integration of a true contemprary landscape design. Also a modern home may not take full advantage of the many possibilities to display sculptures and opportunities which are true to the home and its style.

Creating a Unique Landscape Takes Design and Construction Understanding

A unique landscape takes the experience and knowledge of design theory and implementation throughout the selection of materials. It requires an understanding of architecture, design principles, hardscape materials, landscape materials, their installation and construction methods as well as knowledge of landscape maintenance over time. The understanding of site context, the architecture of the home, the client’s wants and needs and the execution of these fundamental elements creates the unique landscape.