Front Yard Landscaping Ideas

Landscaping Lessons – Simplicity As A Principle of landscape Design

Simplicity, believe it or not, is one of the basic principles of landscape design. It not only is a principle of landscaping, but also of all art forms. And it is just as the word implies. Keep it simple. At least to begin with.

However, simplicity doesn't imply that your landscaping should be totally without character or be simplistic so to speak. It just means to stick with the other major principles such as balance, repetition, unity, and harmony.

A big mistake that many do it yourselfers and homeowners make is in placing too many objects, plant varieties, and too many varied elements in their initial design. This can lead to confusion and a distorted perception of the outcome or finished design. Keeping the design simple in the beginning will help keep things clear, in perspective, and make it easier to design. You can always add more later.

The best example I can think of is in plant selection and color combinations. Plant selection is usually a big obstacle for most people simply because they don't have a knowledge of the many different plant varieties. And even with this in mind, most people will go to market and pick out several varieties of mismatched plants to place in their landscaping. And this in itself can throw the entire landscape design out of balance.

So how do you keep it simple?

While most folks don't have a large knowledge of plants, most people are familiar with one or two varieties or can see what is working well in their neighbors landscaping. And this is where you should start. You can get more impact from a simple selection of a few varieties and color combinations and repeating them throughout the landscape than you will from a large mix match of different plants.

In simpler terms. Pick two or three varieties, shades, or hues and repeat them throughout the landscape or garden. Repetition is also a principle of landscape design.

Here's a neat design "trick" to try:

If you want make a bold statement and create a lot of impact, try building a few beds or borders using several different shades of the same color. Do this using several different species and you'll also create a contrast of texture. And once again, contrast and variation of texture are also principles of design and art.

This principle applies to all areas, shapes, decor, hardscapes, and elements of your landscaping. Not just plants.

Keep your landscaping simple to begin with. It will make it easier to design and you can always add more later if need be. Every good garden design or landscaping project displays the principle of simplicity.