Landscape Design…DIY?
Is there a process for designing a landscape? Is it possible for someone to DIY their own landscape design and achieve good results?
Our answer to both questions is Yes.
Whether designing a courtyard in the Philadelphia, a small front yard in Narberth, or a full residential landscape plan for a home in Malvern, there is a process we use that helps us develop a cohesive landscape design.
Create goals. We work to match a client’s ideal vision for their home and the way they use it regularly. Walking the space and listening to client goals is the start of any design.
Understand site conditions. While on site, we take notes of existing conditions like sun and shade, wet and dry areas, existing vegetation, existing and ideal circulation patterns. Assessing what is on site and should be preserved versus what can be removed sets the stage for the landscape design.
Develop a plan. Working through layers, the landscape design is created to be function, low-maintenance, and beautiful in all season. First we develop an evergreen layer of trees and shrubs to maintain “structure” year-round. After that, we work to develop winter interest with grasses, berry-producing plants, and those that have interesting stem color or structure in winter. The finals step is to fill in the herbaceous layer with grasses and flowering perennials.
By starting with client goals at the forefront, we work to make any design meet those dreams.
Whether your space is large or small, sunny or shady, open or private, creating a design for an outdoor space that fulfills your vision is possible.
If you feel comfortable following these steps, you are well on your way to a successful DIY landscape that you can be proud of.
If this seems like too much work or is way too complicated, we are always here to help!