Landscape Design Basics: Creating a Cohesive Outdoor Space

There are a few key parts of any landscaping process, and landscape design is one of the most important. What is landscape design, and what are some landscape design basics that you should be considering during this stage of the process?

At Wright Landscaping, we’re here to offer the very best commercial and residential landscape design and installation services around Salt Lake City, Layton, Mapleton, Eagle Mountain, Salem, Spanish Fork and nearby parts of Utah. Here are some landscape design basics that go into quality landscape design, plus some common mistakes to avoid and the value of working with professional landscapers during the design phase.

What is Landscape Design?

For those just learning about landscape design, it may seem like a simple concept – designing and creating an outdoor space. However, there is much more to landscape design than meets the eye.

Landscape design involves carefully planning and arranging elements such as plants, trees, hardscapes (patios, walkways, etc.), water features, and lighting in order to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space. It takes into consideration factors such as climate, soil type, sun exposure, and available space to create a cohesive and harmonious design.

Why Good Landscape Design Matters

There are a few key reasons why good landscape design matters and why it’s worth investing time and resources into creating a well-designed outdoor space.

• Enhances the Aesthetic Appeal: One of the most obvious reasons for good landscape design is to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property. A well-designed landscape can significantly improve the curb appeal of your home, making it more attractive and inviting. It also adds value to your property, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners.
• Creates Functional Outdoor Spaces: Good landscape design takes into consideration not just the visual aspect but also how the space will be used. By carefully planning out elements such as pathways, seating areas, and play spaces, a functional outdoor space is created that can be enjoyed by everyone in the household. This allows for more opportunities to spend time outdoors and engage in various activities, whether it’s hosting a barbecue, playing with children, or simply relaxing in a peaceful environment.
• Promotes Health and Well-being: Being surrounded by nature has been proven to have numerous health benefits such as reducing stress levels, improving mood, and increasing physical activity. A well-designed landscape can provide a tranquil and refreshing escape from everyday stresses, allowing for relaxation and rejuvenation. It also encourages physical activity through gardening tasks or outdoor activities like sports or games.
• Enhances Environmental Sustainability: With a growing focus on environmental sustainability, landscaping plays an important role in promoting eco-friendly practices. Native plants that require less water are better for the environment.

Common Elements of Landscape Design

While this is far from an exhaustive list, here are some of the broad elements that tend to comprise landscape design:

• Balance: A well-designed landscape has a sense of balance and symmetry, where elements are evenly distributed throughout the space. This can be achieved through repetition of similar plants or features on either side of a central axis.
• Proportion: Similar to balance, proportion is important for creating a visually appealing landscape. Elements should be appropriately sized in relation to one another and the overall space.
• Color: Color adds interest and variety to a landscape. Different color schemes can evoke different moods or feelings, such as warm colors for a cozy and inviting space, or cool colors for a tranquil and calming environment.
• Texture: The texture of plants and materials used in a landscape can add depth and visual interest. A mix of rough and smooth textures can create contrast and draw the eye to certain areas.
• Focal points: Every good landscape design needs focal points that draw the eye and create visual interest. These could be large trees, sculptures, water features, or even a unique plant arrangement.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

There are a few pitfalls to steer clear of when it comes to landscape design, and being aware of them can help you avoid making these common mistakes.

• Overcrowding: It can be tempting to want to include as many plants and decorative elements as possible, but overcrowding a landscape can make it look cluttered and overwhelming. Give your plants and focal points room to breathe and stand out.
• Lack of variety: Another mistake is using too many similar plants or materials in a landscape, resulting in a monotonous design. Be sure to mix up textures, colors, and sizes for a more visually appealing landscape.
• Ignoring maintenance needs: Before adding any plants or features to your landscape, make sure you understand their maintenance requirements. Choosing high-maintenance plants or features that you cannot maintain will only lead to frustration and a neglected landscape.
• Poor lighting: Lighting is an essential aspect of a well-designed landscape, but it is often overlooked. Incorporating different types of lighting, such as spotlights and pathway lights, can add depth and dimension to your landscape design.

Value of Hiring Professional Landscapers

When it comes to landscape design, it may be tempting to take a DIY approach and handle everything on your own. However, there are significant benefits to hiring professional landscapers for your project.

• Expertise and experience: Professional landscapers have the knowledge, skills, and experience to create a well-designed and functional landscape. They understand the various elements involved in landscape design, such as soil quality, plant selection, and irrigation systems.
• Time-saving: Landscaping can be a time-consuming task, especially if you lack the necessary expertise and tools. Hiring professionals allows you to focus on other important tasks while they handle all aspects of your landscape design.
• Cost-effective: While it may seem cheaper to do it yourself, hiring professional landscapers can actually save you money in the long run. They have access to wholesale nurseries and can get materials at a lower cost, and their expertise ensures that your landscape will last longer without needing costly repairs or replacements.
• Increase property value: A well-designed and maintained landscape not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property, but it also adds value to your home. This is especially beneficial if you are looking to sell your property in the future.
• Environmental benefits: Professional landscapers have a deep understanding of how different plants and trees can benefit the environment. They can design landscapes that promote biodiversity, reduce erosion, and improve air quality.

At Wright Landscaping, we’re here to help with all your landscape design basics and needs around Utah. Contact us today to learn more or get started!