Why Is a Thoughtfully Planned Landscape Design Important?
The landscape which surrounds your Kansas home or business is your own unique piece of the world, and the manner in which you choose to design or develop it sends a message to each person who visits or passes by. Although the aesthetics of great landscape design matter, there are a number of other significant reasons why a thoughtful design is important!
The Basics of Landscape Design
Landscape design is about more than just a lawn, trees and shrubs, and some strategically placed flowers. In order to achieve an aesthetically pleasing, sustainable, functional outdoor environment, there are a number of key elements to keep in mind:
- Plan ahead – Account for growth when selecting and planting items throughout your landscape. Ensure you will retain access to key areas around your property and that there is no danger of damage to your home or other structures from limbs, roots, or overgrowth.
- Create focus – Determine the focus of your landscape design, whether it is a hardscaping element such as an outdoor fireplace or arbor, or softscaping, such as a raised garden bed or towering tree. Once you’ve defined the focal point, you can plan the rest of your design accordingly.
- Consider your surroundings – Your landscape design should complement the exterior of your home or commercial building rather than competing with it.
- Scale your design – Start with the basics with several key plantings and let your design develop organically from there.
The Benefits of a Thoughtfully-Planned Landscape Design
There is no question that landscaping can enhance the beauty and value of your property, but achieving the proper design is the key to maximizing your investment and satisfaction with the end result. In order to obtain the correct balance of materials, ensure growth, and increase value, it’s important to consider a number of factors which can contribute to the success or failure of your design:
Energy Efficiency
Strategically placed plantings and hardscape elements can help to reduce heat gain during the summer months, lessening your reliance on air conditioning to stay cool. During the winter months, these same plants can provide a windbreak and act as a form of insulation to reduce heat loss.
Drainage
Improper or inadequate grading can direct water towards your foundation and contribute to deterioration or flooding. Proper landscaping practices account for grading to ensure the ground slopes away from your property to protect your belongings. Poor drainage due to soil conditions, roots, or uneven sloping can cause water to pool and result in significant damage.
Safety
Elements of design such as outdoor lighting, pathways, retaining walls, and more help to ensure the safety of all who visit your property.
Usability
Maximize your investment in your home by making the most of your outdoor space. As an extension of the indoors, a well-designed landscape can enhance the beauty and functionality of your home or business with additional elements such as seating, patio or deck space, outdoor lighting, fire and water features, shade structures, and more.
Air Quality
Do your part for the environment by planting a variety of oxygen-producing greenery throughout your landscape.
Value
Proper landscape design can increase the value of your property. For businesses, added value can mean attracting more customers to your facility and standing out from the competition.
Curb Appeal
Your home will stand out as one of the most finely manicured landscapes on the block!
Schedule Professional Landscape Design Services in Topeka, KS
The team of skilled, experienced professionals at Topeka Landscape has been providing expert services to homes and businesses throughout the Topeka, KS area for decades. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule professional landscaping in the Topeka area!