What do we mean, by definition, when we say softening the view?

We mean that we soften the view of other structures, buildings, and homes, with plant material, bamboo, shrubs, and other kinds of plants. It also involves training trees and shrubs into forms that lend organic sense to the Houston landscape and separation between homes and businesses

What neighborhoods in Houston are so crowded that they need this service?
Typically, we are talking about Upper Kirby, Bellaire, West U, Southside Place, and Rice Village. All of these areas have magnificent homes but very small lots.

How can clients benefit from this style of landscaping?
It helps them feel they are in more private space and more open space at once. It is private in that other elements of the Houston landscape are obscured from view. It is more open because with a new sense of enclosure, a smaller yard looks larger.

What structures must be built to create a softer view?
We normally create visual barriers out of some sort of organic wall. This does not need to be a total barrier, just a partial barrier.

What specific types of hardscapes, including patios and walkways, work well here?
Gravel is a great material to soften connection between ground covers and hardscapes. We do not want concrete everywhere. Sometimes, we may even plant in gravel to blur distinction and merge inorganic and organic elements. The standard depth we aim for is about 10 inches of gravel in a bed, then plant trees within that gravel to create a natural screen from the surrounding Houston landscape

Are there ways to alter hardscapes to make them appear “softer”?

Other types of vegetation can be planted in gravel just like smaller trees can. With concrete patios, you can leave cutouts and plant tropical plants, flowers, trees, or bushes in the cutouts.

What softscape elements are needed to soften the view of the Houston landscape in a crowded neighborhood?
It is always a good idea to line borders of hardscapes with grass and boxwoods. Small hedges and grasses no taller than hip high can often be all you need to soften harsh exterior of neighboring homes and buildings.

Does outdoor lighting play a role in this process, and how?
Lighting is integral to the aesthetic of the Houston landscape. One of the great thing about light is you do not have to light anything that you do not want emphasized. At night, all that you need to do to control the eye is to up light or feature light such elements as planters, screen walls, architectural walls.

Outdoor lighting also gives you control of the view of garden.

What water features, including pools, are most common in these projects?
Small swimming pools and reflecting pools are very popular in tightly knit Houston neighborhoods. Custom fountains and all fountains help to break up sounds of traffic, commercial life, neighbors.