Great landscape design is always inspired. The question is… inspired by what? To help you design a landscape that meets your design aesthetics and needs, read our list of 10 sources of inspiration for your landscape architecture in Oyster Bay, NY.
Related: THE 7 MUST-HAVES FOR BACKYARD DESIGNS IN HUNTINGTON, NY
Color
For a fun and vibrant landscape, go for a variety of color. Flowers don’t have to be pink with a yellow center, and leaves don’t have to be green, and there are many choices if you want a landscape that’s completely unique.
For serenity, choose the simplicity of a serene monochromatic planting scheme along with neutral-colored outdoor living spaces.
Texture
Take a close look at the details of natural scenes you admire and how various textures work together: how the sunlight filters through the leaves, how plants are reflected in pools, the texture of bark, ornamental grasses and ferns, and the many shades of green. These details are what make a landscape magical. Remember, too, that landscape lighting helps accentuate textures after dark.
Perspective
Looking at your landscape from various perspectives helps to create a pleasing design. Everything you see at eye level looks completely different from a bird’s eye perspective. Successful design looks great whether you’re looking down to admire the texture of a paver, up at a leafy canopy, or straight ahead across the lawn to the trees beyond. Think of what’s at your feet as an outdoor “floor”; the plants around you as the “walls” and the sky and tree canopy above as the “ceiling,” and—with the help of your landscape designer—consider all of these elements when deciding what to plant, and where.
Opposites
Combine man-made elements with natural elements. Also consider the visual weight of objects and use opposites to create balance. For example, billowing ornamental grasses will help balance the visual weight of evergreen trees. Combine fire and water in a custom fire/water feature; smooth and soft (such as pavers set in a lush lawn); or the rough texture of a retaining wall with the smoothness of pavers.
Motion
Moving elements make your landscape fascinating. Water features, fire features, and leafy trees come to mind immediately, but don’t forget that natural landscapes also attract movement in the form of birds and wildlife.
Natural Objects
Your design does not have to center around plants. You can get inspiration from natural objects that are not plants. Gather inspiration from natural features such as jagged rock formations, smooth river rock, moving water and still water, or the subtle texture of beaches—all of which can be combined into a stunning water feature!
Shapes
Focus on shapes to create interesting silhouettes in varying light conditions. A broad tree with spreading branches invites you to sit in its shade; tall conical evergreens make a wonderful living privacy wall; and large boulders add a vertical dimension to a sea of green grass.
Light
The appearance of various landscape elements can change dramatically in different lighting conditions. Low light (morning and sunset) accentuate textures of horizontal objects as well as colors in the landscape. The combination of sun, shade, and partially shaded areas contribute to a landscape that welcomes you to use it no matter the time of day.
The Masters
Take inspiration from the great art masters. Monet’s gentle water lilies, Van Gogh’s vibrant colors and shapes, Millet’s pastoral countrysides, O’Keeffe’s bold flowers… a visit to your local art museum can yield amazing inspiration for your landscape!
Memories
Reflect on a place you love—whether a childhood memory, a favorite travel destination, or somewhere that’s always had a place in your heart—and bring those elements into your landscape. For example, if you have fond memories of Tuscany, you can create a wonderful Tuscan patio using tumbled pavers and terraced walls overflowing with colorful flowers or even grape arbors.
We create landscapes that speak to your heart. Share images, bring us your magazine clippings, tell us what’s on your wishlist, and together we will create a landscape that is uniquely you.
Related: 5 LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE IDEAS TO IMPROVE YOUR OYSTER BAY, NY, DRIVEWAY
