Landscape design has a commonality with letter writing. Both activities follow a set of principles that can result in something cohesive with a clear flow from one section to the next. Done properly, specific design principles create gorgeous landscapes that please the eyes and the senses throughout the seasons. How to make it happen? Look for landscape professionals who can apply the following concepts to transform your Long Island, NY, property into your personal oasis.
Order
Not surprisingly, landscape design principles rest on mathematic principles, as these fundamentals establish a beautiful finished product. People tend to be most comfortable in a landscape that provides order and balance. There are two ways to accomplish this: symmetrical and asymmetrical design.
Symmetrical means that what has been planted on one side of an outdoor area is mirrored on the opposite side. They often take advantage of geometric shapes to bring a sense of order (think of the roundness of a fire pit and the sharp edges of a solidly built retaining wall). Asymmetrical means that the sides are not exact mirrors, but one side might be more structured while the opposite side is more free flowing.
Proportion
Proportion refers to the size of plants, trees, and shrubs in relation to the overall outdoor space. Most well-planned landscapes have some focal points, or visually interesting elements, to anchor the eye. This might be a tall, mature tree, a trellised wall, or a row of vibrant bushes. The proportion should emphasize the horizontal, vertical, and spatial relationships among all of the plants.
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Repetition
Repeating a grouping of shrubs, intervals of flowering trees, or even garden statues can bring repetition to the landscape. Wood fencing that is anchored by rock pillars brings repetition to the outdoor living space, while providing a definition to a specific portion of the landscape. This rhythm of repeating elements draws you in with its order.
Color
As critical as mathematic principles is the element of color in a landscape. The color wheel is referenced for the right mix of reds, yellows, blues, greens, violets, and oranges, to create the foundation of color for the landscape. Combining these colors is not done haphazardly. Color choices can influence how you feel as you enjoy different parts of your yard. Warm colors create a sense of calm and can make a large space seem more intimate, while cool colors bring contrast and definition. A range of greens can add depth and texture, while maintaining a monochromatic look especially complementary to a modern home.
Sound and Fragrance
Some landscape experts overlook the importance of sound and fragrance in the design. The tinkling of wind chimes brings a sense of happiness and simplicity in a landscape. A waterfall, or the sound of a nearby stream, can do the same—helping its listeners remember to enjoy the simple pleasures. Add the sweet aroma of flowering bushes and trees, and you have a true oasis.
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Unity
Unity brings the entire landscape together with a mindfulness of planning and structure. Your landscape should bring a sense that everything is delicately connected. Taken as a whole, the landscape can be breathtaking. Ultimately, you want a sense of harmony among the plants, colors, textures, and repeating features that draws you into your yard and encourages you to move deeper and deeper into the landscape.
Reviewing these design principles might seem overwhelming at first. The right landscape professionals use them as a matter of course and rely on them to transform properties. Your landscape could become something you have only dreamed it could be.
