Landscape Design Principle #1 – Order

Order is the way you organize your landscape design. Your features and elements should be arranged to give a balanced look. For instance, planting the same type and number of trees on both sides of a pathway.

However, it doesn’t mean your design must be in symmetrical order. Order can be achieved asymmetrically, as long as the features have the same visual weight. You can also arrange a feature around a focal element. For instance, planting flowers around seating areas.

Landscape Design Principle #2 – Proportion

Proportion refers to the relative size of your landscape features to each other and the human scale. Varying sizes can help emphasize dominance — for instance, a life-sized animal topiary surrounded by flowers.

Proportion is also considered in relation to the size of your yard. For instance, you shouldn’t place several small features in a small yard; it would only make the space feel even smaller. A prominent focal feature would work better.

Landscape Design Principle #3 – Repetition

Repetition involves creating patterns or sequences in your landscape design. You can repeat design elements such as line, form and color, or landscape features such as flowers, trees, and pathways.

However, take care not to over-repeat or under-repeat. Too much repetition will be monotonous, and too little will confuse. You can make it more interesting by alternating the design. For instance, arranging a vase-shaped plant, followed by a pyramidal plant, repeatedly.

Landscape Design Principle #4 – Unity

Unity ensures that every element and feature is connected. Unrelated features and plants that don’t fit together give off a scattered look. Hence, you have to choose your landscape elements carefully.

The principle also involves ensuring features are linked physically. For instance, designing a hardscape pathway that links different parts of your yard. You can also group features into threes or fives to give off a united look, as odd numbers are not easily split.

Bottom Line

With the knowledge of these landscaping principles, you can DIY your landscape design. You can also collaborate with a professional landscaper like Levy’s Lawn & Landscaping to transform your yard or garden into a stunning landscape.