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From Dull to Dreamy: A Beginner's Guide to Landscape Design

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Do you want to turn your dull outdoor space into something beautiful?


Every homeowner wants to live in a home with a gorgeous outdoor space. You know…the kind that make neighbours slam on their brakes to see as they drive past your home. The good news is that your dream landscape is achievable with quality landscape design services.


Here's what you need to know…


Professional landscaping services will take any outdoor space from blah to breathtaking. Not to mention landscape design is an investment that pays for itself over and over.

What's Inside:

  • Why Landscape Design Services Are Important

  • The Basics of Landscape Design

  • Types of Landscape Design Services

  • Common Landscape Design Mistakes to Avoid

Why Landscape Design Services Are Important

Outdoor landscaping design isn't just for curb appeal.


Functional outdoor spaces are a wise investment that actually add value to any property. Research from UT Arlington discovered that homes with good curb appeal sell for 7% more than other homes within the same zip code.


That 7% equates to a massive ROI.


Let's say you have a $400,000 home. Adding value of 7% is equal to $28,000 dollars! Who knows how much your home could increase with the right landscaping work?


Your home value isn't the only reason landscape design services are important. Take a look at these perks of professionally landscaped properties:


  • Adds living space to your home: Simply put, landscaping creates outdoor rooms in your yard. These rooms are great for entertaining guests and providing areas to relax.


  • Save money on utilities: Shade trees can dramatically decrease air conditioning costs during hot summers.


  • Help the environment: Planting native species helps the ecosystem and requires little watering.


Demand for professional landscape design services has skyrocketed over the past few years. Landscaping has never been more popular across the United States. Homeowners that invest in professional landscaping in Pierce County know that quality landscape design services produce better results than DIY efforts.

The Basics of Landscape Design

If you've looked into landscape design…


You know that not all landscaping is created equal. But what makes a good landscape designer? More importantly, what are the basics every landscape should follow?


Let's dig in!

Balance

When most people think about balance, they picture perfect symmetry.


Balanced landscape designs do not necessarily mean everything has to be symmetrical on either side of the space. Balance is more about having visual weight evenly distributed throughout the space. Large tree on one side? Add some smaller shrubs to even it out. You want your eye to flow through the space evenly.

Focus

Alright so you have balance. What's the star of your landscape?


Maybe it's a unique tree? Could be a water feature or pond. How about an eye-catching sculpture? It can even be a brightly coloured flower bed. Focus areas are where you direct the eyes of anyone who views your landscape. Without this your yard will lack appeal.

Flow

Flow means how people will move through the space.


Will there be pathways to direct guests? Maybe surround a flower bed with grass as little hiding spots for people to stand. Flow uses pathways, plants, and hardscaping elements to dictate how people will move through your landscape.

Colour/Texture

Finally, what colours and textures did you use?


Landscaping isn't all green bushes. Professional landscape design services use a variety of colours and textures throughout the seasons. By mixing trees, flowers, and plants of different textures and colours you create interest all year long.

Types of Landscape Design Services

The style of landscape design you choose…


Will depend on a number of different factors. Size of yard, budget, climate and more will all play into what you decide to do with your outdoor space. Here are some popular landscape design services that you may want to consider.

Balance vs Symmetry

Symmetrical landscapes focus on mirroring objects on either side of your space.


Symmetrical landscapes split the space evenly down the middle. You'll often find symmetry at play in formal gardens and entryways.


Asymmetrical landscapes focus on opposite elements to create visual balance.


These landscapes don't split everything down the middle. Larger objects are paired with smaller ones to even out a space.

Organic Landscape Design

Organic landscaping pretty much explains itself.


Shapes and forms are used that mimic nature and tend to be…you guessed it organic. Trees, plants, flowers and other foliage will typically be left as nature intended with very little trimming or shaping.

Horizontal vs Vertical

Horizontal landscapes focus on horizontal lines.


Hardscaping elements such as rock walls, tiles, and wooden structures will lead the eyes of those viewing your landscape. Plants and flowers are typically simpler and smaller in scale.


Vertical landscape design uses taller trees and plants.


Flowers and plants become the focal point of your space. Hardscaping takes more of a back seat to emphasize your greenery.

Common Landscape Design Mistakes to Avoid

Landscaping goes wrong when you…


Skip the planning process. Sure you might get lucky and come up with the perfect landscape design in one try. But it's unlikely.


Avoid these common landscaping design mistakes:

Planting For Instant Impact

Plant material that looks great when you first buy it but...


Will grow to become a wild mess in no time. Take the time to understand how each plant material will look as it matures. You don't want to crowd your landscape.

Neglecting The Hardscape

Who doesn't love plants?


But your landscape isn't just trees and flowers. Hardscaping elements like rock walls, tiled walkways, decks, and patios are important to consider during the design process. Not only do they create structure and interest year round but they make your landscape functional.

Ignoring your climate

Plant material that will die because you didn't do your research.


Choose plants that will thrive in your hardiness zone and environment. Native plants will fair best as they're used to the weather conditions in your area.

Too Much Aviary Traffic

Small yards are great for many reasons.


But when you cram too much plant material, focal points, and walking paths you'll overwhelm your guests. Simple landscape designs typically create the best experience.


Remember these tips next time you plan to work on your landscape. Whether you hire a professional or take on some DIY projects yourself you should always spend time planning beforehand.

Conclusion

Turning bland landscapes into beautiful outdoor spaces is easy.


Once you understand these basic elements of landscaping you can apply them to any space. You'll be dreaming up your dream landscape in no time!


Remember, whether you're looking to spruce up your front yard or completely transform your backyard, these landscape design basics will set you up for success.


LANDSCAPE DESIGN SERVICES WILL PAY FOR THEMSELVES.


Don't believe us? Remember that landscaping increases your homes value. Love spending time outdoors? Your new landscape improves your everyday life.


Guests will notice your investment and you'll enjoy coming home more every day.


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