Tag: planning and design

Unwanted noise can lead to a variety of health problems, including anxiety and hearing loss. Using plants, berms, and solid barriers together with water wise plants is an effective way to reduce unwanted sound.

Plants and other soft surfaces absorb and scatter soundwaves. Plants are also aesthetically pleasing. Using plants alone, however, is the least effective method for noise reduction in places with limited space.

Although expensive, if space is not a constraint, creating a natural or forested area might …

A planting plan is a construction document that shows the location, quantity, and other characteristics of vegetation to be planted in the landscape. It should be easy to read and understand.

Preparing the Planting Plan

Once the inventory, analysis , size and shape of use areas, paths and all other features have been determined,  the planting plan can be created. Specific plant species selection is the last element to be determined. Plans can be hand drawn or with simple residential …

Have you ever bitten off more than you can chew?  Creating or redesigning a landscape can feel overwhelming, particularly if the yard is large.

One way to avoid feeling overwhelmed when planning a landscape design is to dream big but start small. Think about what is needed right now; perhaps a fresh new entryway or a pleasant entertaining area.

 

 

 

 

 

Starting with a small area close to the house is a great way to start small. …

A hardscape is any area where materials such as concrete, asphalt, gravel, wood, or bark mulch are used. These hardscape areas can be aesthetically pleasing and provide a base surface or outdoor ‘floor’ that defines distinct areas in the landscape.

Using the right materials in the right place in conjunction with appropriate plants can minimize water use.

Materials such as asphalt and concrete, however, do not allow water to penetrate into the soil and can contribute to runoff. Pollution in …

Designing small spaces, whether in a residential or urban area, is not as hard as it may seem. A lot can fit into a small space if designed correctly.

Small, intimate spaces can be an ideal way to connect with nature or for a quiet getaway.  A few important strategies can be used to get started on designing small spaces in the landscape.

First, decide how many outdoor spaces or ‘rooms’ need to be created. What size will they …