In landscape design, choosing a design theme is a big choice to make that will directly affect the feel of the space on the day the project is complete, and for decades afterward. Here are our tips for picking a design theme from scratch for next year’s landscape design and landscaping in Glen Cove, NY.
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Starting from scratch can be the most fun of all, because you get to put your unique stamp on your outdoor living spaces without having to compromise on style. No matter your budget, starting from scratch can give you exactly the space you envision, that’s true to you.
Identify Your Needs
Begin by getting clear on exactly how you want to use the space. Do you need a chic space where you can entertain? Do you want a serene place to relax away from the stresses of the world? Do you need space for kids and a dog to run around? Do you enjoy gardening or do you want a low-maintenance landscape? Is there a view you want to emphasize? Are you designing space for a large family?
Ultimately, a well-designed landscape will be a beautiful combination of function and aesthetics. But before you start decorating the space with materials and plants, you want to be sure that your design will meet your physical needs.
Your landscape also has to meet your emotional needs. Go with how you want to feel when you’re outside: for example, do you want your outdoor space to feel more like a rustic retreat or a luxury spa? Do you feel happy in a formal space with clearly defined shapes such as neatly trimmed hedges and straight walkways - or would you feel more at ease in a natural setting that is more relaxed?
Your physical and emotional needs will ultimately drive the direction of your landscape’s design theme. For example, if you fell in love with the manicured gardens of a French chateau, you may dream about recreating that look in your landscape. But does that aesthetic suit your actual needs? Do you have the patience and energy for the upkeep of a formal landscape?
If a design theme of your dreams doesn’t quite mesh with your lifestyle, don’t despair! You can always incorporate design elements that will delight you, without applying them to the entire landscape. For example, a formal fountain at your entryway could be just the thing to remind you of that French chateau - but the rest of your landscape could be a low-maintenance reflection of how you really live.
Use Your Home as Inspiration
Your outdoor living spaces and landscape should harmonize with the home. You’ll get the most pleasing outcome if your landscape design reflects the architectural style of the home. For example, a mid-century modern home will have a different design aesthetic than a victorian or a bungalow. Many contemporary homes don’t always have a defined style, however. This can make it more challenging to choose a style but the good news is, it also gives you more options.
You can up-level your landscape with sophisticated touches like a combination of a teak hot tub deck next to a paver patio, and monochromatic plantings reminiscent of a luxury spa. Or, you can add a relaxed vibe to a very formal home with tumbled pavers and a more freeform English garden-style aesthetic.
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