Not all landscape design ideas are suited for every type of yard. In fact, some yards will require a great deal of planning and adjusting to get just the right look from a landscape design. Whether you’re working with limited space or difficult grades, there are a variety of landscaping tips and ideas that can help you make the most of your outdoor space.
Garden Wall Design
Walls can be used for privacy, protection, seating, or simply for beauty. Varying heights, depending on the wall’s purpose, and angles or curves to suit your garden style make these hardscape features a great addition to any type of landscape design. Bricks, stones, or other materials that complement the rest of your outdoor space is a great way to blend your landscape with your home.
Retaining Walls
Retaining walls are a unique type of garden wall, designed to offset slopes and enhance curb appeal. Like most hardscape designs, planning and constructing a retaining wall requires special attention to accuracy. Drainage, erosion, and other issues must be addressed as well. Landscape designers can typically create and build a retaining wall that works well with your yard.
Landscape Design for Slopes and Grades
Retaining walls are just one technique for landscaping hillside garden areas. Slopes and grades can become beautiful parts of your outdoor space with the right landscaping. Appropriate drainage and irrigation systems are recommended to maintain all of the following ideas for hillside landscaping:
- Rock gardens
- Functional decks
- Wild flower gardens
- Natural areas with unique ground covers.
Landscape Design Ideas for Terraces
From secluded sitting areas near the master suite to expansive patios for entertaining, garden terraces are beautifullandscaping techniques that create harmony between your outdoor and indoor living space. Use patterns, colors, and materials that complement your overall design. You can add more functionality to your terrace and patio by integrating covered areas, railing, and other custom touches.
Landscape Design Tips for Small Yards
Limited outdoor space does not mean you are limited with design ideas. Small yards have become quite common and there are plenty of ways to create a beautiful garden with a tiny amount of space.
- Integrate proportionate outdoor accessories. A large garden pond, for instance, would overpower a small yard and leave little room for living.
- Plant small trees, including fruit trees and ornamentals, rather than large shade trees.
- Choose colors that make your yard appear larger.
- Certain textures can create a feeling of openness as well.
- Opt for slender fencing that adds to the open feeling.
- Plants that grow vertically, like vines and climbers, can also add more dimension to a small yard.
No matter what obstacles you may face because of the natural characteristics of your yard, a beautiful outdoor space is never impossible. A landscape contractor can ensure a design that complements your home and reflects your personal tastes, but there are a number of simple landscape design ideas that you can create on your own.
