Planning Your Landscape   Back to Article Main

When planning your landscape, there are a few things to keep in mind when thinking about the layout.

The first step is to think of your yard in terms of a room. A good landscaping plan is developed in terms three dimensions.The first dimension consists of the ground as the floor, then the Property lines as the walls, and finally the ceiling as the canopy created by structures, tree plantings, and the sky.

It is also important to study the layout of your house including window locations and primary living areas of your house to establish a relationship between living and service areas in the house and similar areas out doors. The living areas tend to require extra attention in terms of landscaping as they are viewed more, as well as views into your Property from connecting spaces.

Your final landscape plan will depend upon your Property and the wind and sun orientation, your house plan, and the amount of time and money you have to spend on it. Incorporate all of the best natural resources that are located on your Property such as soil, trees, creeks, streams, rock outcroppings, turf, and ponds. Consider which are the good views and cover unattractive and objectionable views either by structures or by proper plantings.