better homes and gardens home plans

Defined by clean lines and an overall uncluttered aesthetic, modern landscaping is the organic embodiment of "less is more."

Perfect for contemporary property layouts or as a welcome contrast against a more traditional home structure, the modern landscape is one that strives for symmetry and balance above all else, whether that is a perfect or asymmetrical balance.

Unlike standard landscaping, which concerns itself primarily with flora & fauna, modern landscaping relies on additional components as well. Wood and stone accents, minimalistic patios, streamlined walkways, and even metal implements all play a crucial part in modern outdoor project planning.

In terms of materials and ornaments, modern landscaping design favors the industrial over custom earthenware; raw concrete or angular tiles are ideal. Rather than grouping one's greenery in circular plots, plants are placed in geometric schemes that guide the inhabitant in a straightforward, almost chessboard-like pattern, as opposed to a more romantic flower-lined roundabout.

The lawn itself is not the key player in modern landscaping but is instead designed to flank and frame gravel-filled beds and path routes. When selecting certain plants and flowers for a modern yard, Asian varieties such as bamboo and boxwoods, as well as ferns and laurels, offer elegance and simplicity, and are relatively easy to maintain.

Some may think of modern landscaping design for the back yard or front yard as the work of a rigid heart or inorganic soul; on the contrary, it's the mark of a truly poetic man, the man who gives thought to his personal space and surroundings. The foundation of modern landscaping lies in philosophy and geometry: how do the plants, furniture, and various walkways all fit together in your landscape project?

Are they unobtrusive, perhaps even zen-like? Do they enhance the house and draw the viewer's eye to deliberate focal points, rather than distract with peripheral clutter? These are the questions that the modern landscaper asks himself, and the answers come in the form of an updated and all-inviting Eden.

You can unlock your inner talented landscape designer with this article as we'll walk you through some great landscaping designs ideas for your big project. Get ready to be inspired!

1. Landscape or Hardscape?

One of the first questions that you need to ask yourself is whether or not you are looking for more of a landscape or a hardscape. A hardscape is a garden that is more dominated by stone and concrete. This can include a mix of pavers, boulders, stone, and other stone structures.

The benefit to this is that it can be easier to maintain and some prefer its cleaner appearance. Most people either prefer a mix of green and grey whereas others will want their garden to be as green as possible. Think about what you'd prefer.

2. Choosing the Right Greenery

Trees

Trees come in all different shapes and sizes but they often dominate the space they are in. That makes them a good idea for larger gardens. You can, of course, get some smaller trees which are great or lining a boundary.

Trees can be used for alternate purposes too such as blocking the view of your garden from neighbors and adding more privacy. Before you plant a tree, think of how much the sun it's going to block out from your garden.

Succulents

Succulents cover a wide range of plants that have thick, fleshy leaves and don't usually take up much space. There are many different types of succulents such as agaves, aloes and aeoniums, among others.

They require minimal maintenance, have a wide color range and are great for decorative landscaping.

Shrubs

If you wanted to add some volume to your garden, then adding shrubs are a great idea. They are good for setting a border or dividng up the space in your garden.

You can choose to let them run wild but many like to manicure their shrubs into flat or round shapes, which can look fantastic. It can take more maintenance but the results can be very good.

Wildflowers

For those wanting to add a bit of color, flowers are always going to be a great idea. When it comes to landscaping, it's good to note how they will change throughout the year before planting them. If you are relying on your flowers to dominate a space then your garden may look a little lifeless in the winter when they aren't in bloom.

Wildflowers are perfect when used in addition to a well landscaped garden. You can remedy the color issue by planting flowers that are going to look great all year around. You can also plant pollinators to support local wildlife.

Grasses

Grasses are often overlooked when it comes to landscaping a garden. They are a perfect way to add a splash of green to a concrete landscape.

You get the additional benefit of them being easy to maintain and are usually green all year round. Grasses come in many forms as some can grow very tall and be a unique garden feature.

3. Modern Landscaping Ideas

Stone tiles

Large stone tiles are a great way to create a pathway through your garden. They are highly functional while still looking great. When you add some greenery around them, they can be eye-catching and much better than a paved or stone path.

Artificial grass

Maintaining a lawn can be a pain. This is especially true if you only have a small patch of grass. Artificial grass is easy to lay down and it looks and feels more realistic than over. You'll get a lush green lawn that never needs caring for and allows you to have minimal landscape maintenance.

Pebbles

When it comes to the space around your plant material, you usually have three choice of bare soil, mulch or pebbles/stone. Pebbles are a great option as they are probably the most aesthetically pleasing and can come in a wide range of colors. They are also good for natural irrigation.

Wall lighting

If you have a dominant wall in your yard, it can look a little out of place if left bare. Wall lighting is a great way to bring it in as a part of your landscaping design. It'll give your home some great curb appeal at night.

Lighted pathways

Another clever way to use light is to illuminate your pathways. These also help with that curb appeal as your home is going to be beautifully lit. You also get the practical benefit of your garden being more accessible after sunset.

Green patio

Some patios can appear quite lifeless and drab. A great way for you to remedy that is by having greenery on either side of your patio entrance. This makes it much more inviting and gives your home a warmer feel. It's better than having a naked and cold patio.

Low walls

Having different areas or levels in your garden can help to make it look special and unique. A great way to do that is with a low wall. These can be an essential part of your landscape plan and allow you to have clean lines and well defined sections.

Flower beds

We've just talked there about how having well defined spaces can give your backyard a fantastic look and another way to do that is with flower beds. You'll be able to perfectly curate each one to your needs.

Shade

If you live in a particularly hot area then you'll probably want some shade. You can do this by installing a structure that is going to block off the sun or perhaps you can plant a shade tree and have protection under its leaves.

Ornaments, Sculptures and Statues

Another way to add to your landscape architecture is with a piece of garden art. You'll be able to pick up many pieces from your local garden center or perhaps you'll be looking for something bespoke. Either way, they can be great talking points of your garden design.

Boulders

A landscape architect may also suggest using boulders in your yard. These are great for filling up space but also look great. You can utilize them as a part of your hardscape or place them beautifully in the middle of your backyard.

Wooden deck

When architects talk about landscape design, they will mostly mention the greens such as a shrub or perennials or different forms of hardscape. Involving wood into the color mix can really help the contrast and bring your landscape design to life.

Tiered garden

If you fancy yourself as a professional landscape designer then you can create a tiered garden. There is no doubt these look amazing. It can be a huge landscape project but for a homeowner that wants to create something special, the results can be fantastic.

Grass tiles

A different way to create a pathway is with lawn tiles. You can either use live grass here or opt for something artificial. Either way, having that lawn color in contrast to the concrete can make your garden look more alive.

4. Choosing a Focal Point

If you want a custom landscape design then you may way to create a focal point in your garden. This is a landscaping idea that will draw the eyes attention. You have a few great options for your area and we look at a few of them here.

Swimming pool

There's no more impressive focal point than a swimming pool. When balanced with professional landscape design and clever plant selection around it, it can add up to your own little paradise

Fire pit

A fire pit in your outdoor space or area is a perfect spot for socializing. You and your friends can crowd around it on those colder days. Even for those at aren't interested in social landscape design, a fire pit is also a beautiful feature and one that will add aesthetic appeal to your design.

Fountain

If you don't want fire, how about water? Or even both! Fountains are a beautiful addition to any area as you not only get the beautiful designer feature but also the peaceful sound of running water. A fountain may require expert installation but the results will be well worth it.

Outdoor living area

Why have a beautiful backyard if you're not going to use it? An outdoor living area allows you to enjoy the beauty and serenity of your bespoke space. It's a great idea to include some seating in your landscape designs.

Trees

As we mentioned earlier, trees can dominate a backyard and you can use that to your advantage by planting one in the middle of your garden. You can buy pre-grown trees and that can be an quick way to completely change the look of your outdoor area.

Brian Cornwell founded Next Luxury in 2007 as a magazine for modern gentlemen.

Brian Cornwell founded Next Luxury in 2007 as a magazine for modern gentlemen.

better homes and gardens home plans

Source: https://nextluxury.com/home-design/best-modern-landscape-design-ideas/

Posted by: dunnfamenter87.blogspot.com

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