Designing a landscape for you and your family is an exciting step to take. But getting to the final product can feel a bit… overwhelming.
Before starting on design, clarifying your vision for your landscape can help. One of the best ways to do this is to find out what sort of landscape design style you’re after. Determining this will help both you and your designers as they bring your vision to life.
Below are three categories of landscape designs and what you can expect from each of them. Use these keywords to search out other landscapes for inspiration. We’ve also included photos from our own portfolio to help you visualize them.
Rustic or Naturalized: “Wild” & Organic
A good phrase to describe rustic or naturalized landscapes is “organized chaos.”
More simply, the word “rustic” means “rural,” or “from the country” — these landscapes are inspired by all things natural and wild.
Rustic landscapes are relaxed in structure, using native plants and textured shrubs that reflect the randomness already present in nature. They often include edible and wildflower gardens. Hardscapes like pathways and pool coping are curvier and encourage both wandering and slowing down. Think meandering streams, contemplative ponds and fountains to attract wildlife.
A variation of rustic design might also be called “naturalized” design. These designs are focused on a natural look with native plant choices, but take it a bit further. They are low-maintenance and eco-friendly, including pollinator gardens and rain gardens. Often they are more meditative and zen — the perfect spaces for reflection and peace. No wonder they’re our favourite!
Naturalized Landscapes
Formal: Classic & Charming
Formal landscapes are trimmed, manicured and meant to look clean and presentable. Many include boxwood hedges, fountains and sometimes even sculptures. These beautiful landscapes are inspired by the traditional garden aesthetic of 17-century Europe.
Typically, there’s a clear structure in place, with a symmetrical layout that includes geometric shapes.
Formal Landscapes
Modern: Clean & Contemporary
Modern landscape design is easily recognizable. Just like modern architecture, it’s minimal, clean and makes excellent use of straight lines. There are often sharp corners and hard edges for contrast.
Incorporating a philosophy of simplicity and minimalism, the driving idea behind modern landscapes is the removal of unnecessary details. The old adage “less is more” is very true here!
In modern landscapes, form follows function, meaning that the landscape should be shaped based on its intended function or purpose. In practice, this means less ornamental plants and trees and a focus on “usability.” Features like patios, pools and walkways are all designed around their intended use — like lounging, dining or even pool parties!
Modern Landscapes
Connecting you to the beauty of the outdoors
While these three styles all have different aesthetic goals, they are all aligned with a single purpose — to create a beautiful landscape that can be enjoyed by its owners, their families and their friends.
Curious about the philosophy behind our design process? You can find out more about our mission and vision as a company here — or see our design packages here!