Landscape Design Principles: Unity

In my last blog post I listed the eight principles of landscape design. The principles included unity, color, natural transition, line, proportion and repetition. This blog will discuss the first principle, unity.

Unity in a landscape design uses repetition and consistency and should be one of your main goals. Repetition can refer to similar plants, similar plant groups or elements such as boulders. Consistency refers to the elements, that some or all the elements of the landscape design fit together to create a whole. A good way to see if your design has unity is by covering up a section of the plan and seeing if the design is impaired. If it isn’t, that part is unnecessary and most likely destroys the unity of the design. Also important is being able to detect the absence of unity in a design. The whole must interrelate. That includes the design, paths, beds and borders. A common mistake is putting too much emphasis on small groupings of plants as individual tiny pieces. These small groups tend to get lost in the overall design. Again if these groups of plants don’t strengthen the design then discard it. A qualified landscape design company will be able to apply the principle of unity.

The awareness of unity in plant selection for a design is important. Too many plants in too small of a design doesn’t create unity. You don’t want to create a collection. Begin by creating a list of plants based on soil type, sun exposure and your likes. Then use this list of plants masses or groups of plants and repeat in parts of the design. Amongst these groupings focal points are added. For example, benches, arbors, trellises, fountains and specimen plants. In the principle of unity, simplicity is key.

Personally I love doing swimming pool designs for swimming pool builders. I love creating an outdoor living space the entire family can enjoy. Having a swimming pool of my own is the best investment I ever made. Relaxing under the cabana, grilling on the outdoor kitchen or just relaxing in the pool. And with the lush gardens around the pool something is always in flower. I love watching the butterflies on the butterfly bushes and the hummingbirds on the Monarda. And at night the landscape lighting extends the use of the outdoor living space.

Principles of Landscape Design & Hardscape Design

Over the upcoming weeks I will be discussing the principles of landscape design and hardscape design. The difference between a landscape that looks professional instead of that of a homeowner comes down to implementing 8 principles. The principals include unity, color, natural transition, line, proportion and repetition.

Realize however that not every principal has to apply to every design. When thinking about the 8 principles it is important for the landscape and hardscape to be functional, aesthetically pleasing and compatible with the existing environment. Most important the design should enhance your quality of life.

Professional landscape design considers the placement and arrangement of plants based on characteristics. For example, size, form, color and texture. Largest plants are positioned first, smaller trees and shrubs are located next and finally perennials and ground covers. Focal points or ornamental plants with unique characteristics are also important. Deciding the background plants, visual balance and dominant elements make up a professional landscape design. Some plants are used for vertical edges, or to create a privacy screen, or provide shade. Some plants acts as a ground cover while other have a round growth habit, while others are weeping or columnar. A professional landscape company will have a degreed horticulturalist on staff to design a landscape plan that considers all there options.

Hardscaping also considers material characteristics. Again size, form, color and texture come into play. Paving bricks come in a variety of colors, textures and sizes. Patterns include modular, running bond, linear, herringbone and parquet. Flagstone and travertine pavers also have their own unique characteristics. Flagstone is a natural material with a traditional and classic look. Travertine pavers are also a natural material that is great for swimming pool decking and patio installation because it stays cool to the touch even during those hot summer days.

Choosing the right landscape company and hardscape company with experience, educated and certified personal on staff will make your property the envy of your neighborhood by utilizing the 8 principles of design. The first principal to be discussed will be unity. Check back soon!