Lush, dark green lawns with even lines and meticulous edging are certainly the ideal for many people, but when it comes to landscaping, grass isn’t the only element to consider. There are a number of other ways to consider when designing your modern landscape.
What is modern landscaping?
Modern landscape design is defined by a clean, minimalistic, uncluttered look. The use of straight, clean lines, neutral or subtle colors, and a deliberate mix of textures create a more aesthetically-minded design that remains more consistent throughout the seasons than a riotous array of colorful flowers and plants that only bloom at certain times of the year. It typically incorporates more architectural elements than vegetation, although plants are still used in moderation.
Modern landscaping materials
Unlike more traditional garden and landscape design which features a wide variety of plants, flowers, bushes, and trees in a rainbow of colors, modern landscaping tends to focus more on industrial-style materials. You probably won’t find pottery, ceramics, brick, or wood mulch in a modern landscape design. Instead, concrete is an especially popular choice due to its versatility – it can be used to make walls, walkways, steps, patios, and planters, all with straight angles and geometrical shapes. Corrugated metals, steel, rock, stone, wood, and fiberglass are also utilized to create visual interest through various textures and forms.
Plants for modern landscape design
While a cornucopia of brightly colored flowers and climbing ivy are classic, eye-catching choices favored by many traditional gardeners, they aren’t the kind of greenery you will see in a modern landscape design. Plants in pale or neutral colors are a common pick and typically a small variety are used throughout the whole landscape. They are placed in a thoughtful, symmetrical way to add small pops of color while softening the hard edges of the industrial materials that dominate a modern landscape. Minimalistic, low maintenance vegetation that provides visual consistency year round is preferred over plants that have to be replanted, pruned, or otherwise maintained. Popular plant choices include bamboo, ornamental grasses, succulents, Japanese maples, boxwood, agave, ferns, and certain types of herbaceous plants.
Sustainability
While aesthetics is a major part of modern landscaping, it isn’t the only important component. Sustainability and environmental responsibility are also elements incorporated into modern landscape design. Using plant species that are native to the area typically reduces the amount of water and chemicals needed to maintain them. Incorporating recycled or upcycled materials such as reclaimed wood and repurposed stone, along with locally-sourced materials, helps to diminish the carbon footprint and reduce waste. Modern landscape design also works to integrate features that provide solar power, use wind energy, collect rainwater, and reduce water runoff and erosion.
While modern landscape design isn’t for everyone, it is an ideal approach for certain people and specific climates. The focus on minimalistic and low maintenance design that also strives to be eco friendly and promote sustainability is especially great for warmer climates and busy individuals who want to add appeal to their yard while helping the environment.
