When we work with first-time landscaping clients at Olympus Landscaping, we’re proud to offer wide-ranging services that include comprehensive landscape design assistance. For many such clients who are new to this entire realm, going over some of the simplest tenets of landscape design approaches is a valuable little primer.
So, we figured, why not bring those same insights to readers on our website? In this two-part blog series, we’ll identify some of the simplest principles of landscape design, plus how you might consider each of them as you’re getting started with any kind of new landscape.
Balance
One of the single most common terms and concepts you’ll hear in landscape design is “balance.” This approach essentially involves creating an overall sense of equilibrium in your landscaping. That can manifest itself in a few different ways.
For one, you might achieve balance by planting an equal number of taller plants and shorter plants. Or, alternatively, you could tuck some larger rocks or statues into the landscaping, to complement the smaller plants and help create a sense of balance. You might also strive for balance in your landscaping by considering the “weight” of different areas. So, if you have a very dense grouping of plants in one corner of the yard, you might consider planting some lighter, more airy plants elsewhere to help achieve balance.
To be clear, “balance” is defined differently by various people — and may be more important to some than others. But it’s definitely something to keep in mind as you’re starting to think about your landscaping goals.
Contrast/Harmony
Two related terms that are often used in landscape design discussions are “contrast” and “harmony.” Contrast essentially involves creating a deliberate juxtaposition of different elements in your landscaping. So, you might plant some very tall plants next to some very short plants. Or, you might use plants with different leaf colors or shapes to create contrast.
Harmony, on the other hand, involves using similar elements to create a more cohesive look. So, you might use plants with similar leaf colors or shapes. Or, you might use plants of different heights to create a “tiered” look — where the shorter plants are in front, and the taller plants are in back.
Unity
One of the foundational concepts of landscape design is unity. This term essentially refers to the overall look and feel of your landscaping — and whether all of the different elements work together to create a cohesive whole.
There are a few different ways to achieve unity in your landscape design. For one, you might use similar plants or materials throughout the landscaping. Or, you might use plants of different heights to create a tiered look — where the shorter plants are in front, and the taller plants are in back. You might also use plants with different leaf colors or shapes to create contrast.
In part two of our series, we’ll go over some further themes to consider in your first landscape design. For more on this, or to learn about any of our landscapers or landscape design services, speak to our team at Olympus Landscaping today.