Your landscaping gives you a functional outdoor living space while boosting your curb appeal. As you work with your contractors to create a space, consider the seven principles of landscape design. They will help you create the perfect design.

The Landscape Design Principles

1. Unity

Unity involves using the same elements throughout your space for a cohesive feel. The colors, shapes, sizes, textures, and themes should all work together for a unified landscape. For example, use landscape boulders, a certain color plant, or lighting.

2. Simplicity

Prevent the landscape from becoming cluttered or visually overwhelming. This involves using a limited amount of textures, curves, colors, and shapes. Two or three colors, for example, are ideal.

3. Balance

Choose either a symmetrical or asymmetrical balance. Symmetrical creates a mirror image where both sides of your yard have the same layout, plant groupings, and colors. This is best for formal gardens. Asymmetrical balance is different on either side and creates more of a relaxing, natural ambiance.  

4. Focalization

Each area of your garden needs a focal point, which immediately draws the eye. Everything else is built around it. In your front yard, the focal point will likely be the home’s front door. In a more massive yard, you may have a fountain, tree, art, or something else.

5. Rhythm & Line

Use lines throughout the landscape with a repeated interval to draw people into it. For example, you can use flower beds or walkways with defined edges. Straight lines create a geometric and formal design, while curvy ones are more natural and relaxed.

6. Proportion

All elements should be appropriate in their size. Choose smaller objects for smaller gardens and more extensive features in bigger yards. Large gardens can have minor focal points to create miniature “areas” within the space, such as seating around a fire pit.

7. Color

Color adds dimension and interest. Bright ones stand out first and bring items closer to the eye. Cool hues are set further back, while neutrals are used in a landscape. Use color to draw the eye to your focal points while creating unity.

The landscape contractors at Montana Gardens use all the principles above to create a visually appealing and functionally enjoyable space for you. Their full service includes everything from design to routine maintenance throughout the entire Flathead Valley. Learn more on their website or by calling (406) 250-4950.