HOW TO DESIGN THE PERFECT LANDSCAPE FOR A MODERN HOUSE

IN THIS BLOG POST WE’LL SHOW YOU HOW TO DESIGN THE PERFECT LANDSCAPE FOR A MODERN HOUSE

How do we use design elements to really make the front yard complement the house? It’s important to consider the architectural characteristics that define modern homes.

These landscapes showcase an approach to designing that supports the clean lines and geometric aesthetic of these unique homes.

 

LOOK TO YOUR EXTERIOR FOR DESIGN DETAILS

Modern house architecture features a repetition of minimal shapes that form dynamic exteriors. The architecture often feels industrial with flat walls clad in steel, glass, and concrete. The ornamentation, if any, is very subtle and chosen with an interest in being eco-friendly. A combination of expansive hardscaped areas and mostly evergreen plants will provide the foundation for a distinctive landscape design. Modern homes may at first glance seem compartmentalized but take a closer look – the entire site is unified with monochromatic colors, a repetition of shapes and linear, orderly lines.

 

USE THE INTERIOR OF THE HOME FOR INSPIRATION

The interior details of a modern house can be found in the clean geometric lines that create a spacious open floor plan. Color schemes are often monochromatic and evoke a sense of peace, inviting a sense of relaxation and renewal for the mind, body and spirit.

The same design process can be applied within the landscape by keeping it simple and organized. For example, a vast lawn provides a place for the eye to rest. Every detail should be purposeful, including the connection between a driveway and front pathway that uses the same material. Landscapes are typically comprised of a limited plant palette and rely on shape, structure and texture rather than color and blooms. Repetition, patterning and a “less is more’ approach will evoke the same sense of calm as the interior to create the perfect landscape for a modern house. Landscape lighting enhances the structure of a modern landscape design with modern fixtures and soft washes of light.

 

PLANTS WE LOVE FOR MODERN STYLE HOUSES

Use a combination of plants and straight forward geometry to compliment the bold architecture of the house. Here are some of our favorites.

PLANTS FOR STRUCTURE:

Ilex Crenata ‘Sky Pencil’: Sky Pencil Holly

Juniperus ‘Pencil Point’: Pencil Point Juniper

Carpinus Betulus ‘Frans Fontaine’: Frans Fontaine Hornbeam

Ginkgo Biloba ‘Goldspire’ : Goldspire Ginkgo

Acer Palmatum: ‘Tsukasa Silhouette’

Prunus Awanogawa: Columnar Cherry Tree

Equisetum    Horsetail Rush

 

PLANTS FOR VISUAL IMPACT:

Yucca Gloriosa: ‘Adam’s Needle’ Yucca

Echinops Ritro: Globe Thistle

Acanthus Mollis: Bear’s Breaches

Fatsia Japonica: Japanese Fatsia

 

PLANTS FOR GROUND COVER :

Asparagus Aethiopicus: Foxtail or Asparagus Fern

Pachysandra Teminalis: Japanese Spurge

Ilex Glabra: Inkberry Holly

 

It’s all about unifying the landscape with the architectural style of your unique house. Now you have the inside landscape design tips to make it all come together.

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Content contributor: Emily Purdin | stonybrooklandscapedesign.com

Credit to photos from Google Chrome Images.