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current design trends vs. timeless design?

  • Writer: ElizabethFribush
    ElizabethFribush
  • May 8, 2021
  • 3 min read

Updated: Nov 22, 2021


Updated design concepts

showcased on home improvement TV and in magazines often involve clearing mature trees, installing large areas of lawn, installing horizontal board fencing around the perimeter, and adding a few non-native evergreen trees to screen the fence.. Although this style may seem like an easy formula for landscape design, it may be the least sustainable option and may not be the best design for your property!


What is it about this current design trend that is not sustainable, or may not be the best design for your yard?

  • repeating a cookie-cutter design anywhere in the country does not create the sense of community identity which has historically been created by enhancing the architecture and natural context. The landscape and hardscape design should be an extension of the architecture and the natural setting, whether for example it is a site in a contemporary desert community, a neighborhood near an ecosystem with dense vegetation and high rainfall; a traditional street of colonial homes, a neighborhood block of 1930's bungalows; or the modern geometry of townhomes in an urban setting.

  • removing mature trees is not sustainable because it removes one of the most effective means of reducing our carbon footprint and it removes a source of shade that reduces our need for electricity for cooling. Removing a native tree may eliminate existing food source and habitat for native birds and wildlife.

  • removing an indigenous tree can reduce the visual quality of the property. A native tree visually ties in with adjacent woodland so helps tie your yard into the community setting.

  • removing mature trees lowers the value of your property - see link under Read More below

  • adding areas of lawn is not sustainable because it means there is less area of native plants and perennials that can attract pollinators and add seasonal color. Lawn requires significant watering and often requires use of herbicides and pesticides. Lawn areas create more surface run-off than planted areas which can result in erosion and excess volume of water flowing into streams.

  • there is little connection to nature. The concept of this current design trend is to essentially remove nature and create an outdoor room or series of outdoor rooms. I would suggest that we can instead have hardscapes and landscapes that allow for all of the same functions and uses; while still allowing you to enjoy nature with its autumn foliage, its changing colors of flowering plants, the possible harvest of vegetables or edible berries, and the chance to observe song birds and wildlife.

  • design trends do not last. Design trends will go out of style, but classic design is timeless and does not go out of style. Timeless design involves creating functional outdoor use areas while still reflecting the architecture of your home, the neighborhood setting, and the natural context


What are some characteristics of timeless design?

  • both the hardscape and landscape design reflect the geometry and style of architecture. The design is an extension of the architecture into the site. The design style and plant selection reflects the character of the surrounding community.

  • existing mature trees are saved where possible and incorporated into the design.

  • native plant species are used where possible to allow the site to fit in with the overall natural context and to provide for sustainability.

  • the design provides for seasonal interest and change.


But what if this current design trend is still exactly the style and look you want for your yard?

No problem! A beautiful design for your property can be developed that uses the concepts used in current design trends or the style and materials that you prefer. The hardscape and landscape design can be customized to create a landscape that responds to the site, the architecture, and the adjoining setting; while using the design look, styles and materials you prefer! Although I hope you would consider using elements of a sustainable, timeless design; of course the ultimate goal is to create a hardscape and landscape that fits your style and that you love!


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