Landscape Design

In the city, a client’s goals are usually more lofty and complex than those in open spaces. It seems most people want their own oasis to retreat to in the evenings and weekends, plus a soothing view from the rear windows. They don’t want it to feel crowded. With this in mind, we approach these projects with several strategies. Most city properties fit the stereotypical courtyard lay-out; they immediately make you feel “boxed in”. The goal is to get away from all the straight lines, straight walls, straight borders. By using curves in the walkways and retaining walls, we add a sense of flow and motion. Plus the different materials are a great way to add color and texture.

We also want to create different levels. This is accomplished with raised mulch beds and planting areas separated by ground-level brick or stone walking paths. Separating the courtyard into “rooms” is a way to create the illusion of space—this is done by using an arbor, a trellis, or plant screening. The city poses a multitude of obstacles for a landscaper. Before we can begin to design an installation we must take accurate measurements of all access points for plants, materials and equipment to get an idea of limitations. Proper plant selection is where the landscape designer ties it all together. Colors, textures, sizes, and shapes of the plants are the real flavor of the entire landscape project.