Landscape Design is a critical component of any project development as it not only perfectly frames the area, but also extends your liveable or functional space to the outdoors. To effectively execute on it, proper consideration has to be given to the setting and layout of the site, proposed hardscapes plus softscapes as well as the placement of the intended furniture and/or accessories. With this in mind, lets now delve more into Landscape Design and the factors to consider when embarking on a Landscape Design project.
#1 Setting
When it comes to the Setting of the Landscape Design project, there are various things you’ll need to be cognizant of before any work on site can commence. For starters, what is the topography of the site, the type of groundcover, soil type and composition plus general weather conditions of the area? If the area is sloping for example, the hardscapes or softscapes that will be put in place should help deter further erosion from taking place. Also, perennially dry or cold areas will require plant life that can be able to withstand adverse weather conditions.
#2 Layout
The Layout in relation to Landscape Design refers to the placement of various elements within the area. Also known as a Site Plan, this Layout should be done on-plan before any actual work can begin, as this enables numerous revisions and changes to be made. In going about it in this order, the sequence allows the project budget, timelines and approved scope to not be interfered with once the actual build work starts. Once everything is set, you can now move to site to start the work.
#3 Hardscapes
Hardscapes as the name implies, refers to the “hard” elements of Landscape Design. Here hard refers to the inanimate, structural and built components that when put together, really bring the project to life. Items like pavers and slabs that make up the footpaths, cabro paved driveways, concrete planters, picket fences, pergolas, gazebos, decks and sunrooms plus architectural light fixtures, garden bridges, swimming pools, ponds, water fountains and rock features. With all these items in place, the area is now ready for the next course of action.
#4 Softscapes
Softscapes as you already guessed, refers to the “soft” elements of Landscape Design. Here the living things take centre stage and are literally the icing on the garden cake. It encompasses all plant life like trees, shrubs, flowers, hedges and grass, and by extension, other living elements like soil, water and groundcover. Extra care and consideration needs to be taken in identifying, sourcing and maintaining these elements lest it’ll only be a matter of time before you are either stuck with an overgrown garden or have little to show for it altogether.
#5 Furniture and Accessories
Finally comes the Furniture and Accessories that crown your Landscape Design project. Anything from garden benches to bird feeders, installations and swing sets, when properly placed, will be the game changer you didn’t see coming. Seeing as it’s outdoors, this placement should be a balance between shaded or screened sections and open ones, with the most conducive Furniture and Accessories for each section set accordingly. This will make for easier maintenance, all while increasing the number of places to sit at and enjoy the work of your hands.
That said, I hope you are now more knowledgeable on matters Landscape Design and are thus ready to embark on your Landscape Design project. Should you however, need us to further expound on something or help you come up with the most ideal layout or site plan for that outdoor space that needs taming, feel free to reach out and we’ll gladly work our magic; after all, we are in the business of transformation.
Till next time…Baraka Tele
