Making Plans This Year with A New Landscape Design

Existing landscape reflects a great deal of what remained post construction, less material that had either outgrown its place or declined in health and was removed. Some minor changes had already been made such as the addition of crushed brick to dress the beds and efforts to get seasonal color with annuals. The largest obstacle to achieving success with flowering plant material is the deer that call this neighborhood home.

“Before”

Design Intent

Create a new design that elevates the landscaping a notch to give it great appeal, functionality, and aesthetics. The backdrop to the front foundation is a second story deck with the underside of it visible. Selecting a plant that would conceal this, be able to be maintained beneath the height of the upper deck, and provide a lush green backdrop was a starting point in the construction of a plant palette.

Layering within this landscape is important particularly where the element of height is involved. Vertical accents were added with Crape Myrtles that will also serve as a beautiful feature to illuminate with low-voltage landscape lighting. The placement of three of them carries height across the front of the property broadening the landscape beyond just the foundation.

Another aspect introduced in this design was the addition of more “green” with turf breaking the plane between the driveway and planting beds on either side. The narrow strip of existing turf between the bed and sidewalk will wrap around and soften the hardscape elements by providing a green visual spacing.

The selections of other shrubs and perennials were done with the need for deer resistance in mind. Brought in to the plan were a variety of textures, seasonal color, and structure. The Boxwood hedges add a touch of formality while supporting grade changes as a “wall” affording transitions down the steep slope. They will also serve as a backdrop to the bright display of perennials and seasonal annual color rotations.

Keeping the existing walk in place we worked around it with more economical, yet still impactful changes.

In Progress

The design is still in the process of obtaining final approval while working with the homeowners to ensure their satisfaction with all the details of the design. As we finalize plans, we will work through completing the process and scheduling an installation.