landscape design book

As mentioned in previous posts, our four-part master plan is the foundation we use for creating timeless landscapes. The four components of the master plan include the approach and arrival sequence; the hub; the perimeter; and passages to destinations. When each part is thoughtfully approached, a memorable landscape is the end result.

Last month, we placed our attention on the approach and arrival sequence, and now we’re turning our focus to the hub portion of the four-part master plan of landscape design. Focusing on the hub helps build the visual connection in your landscape design. The hub is the main feature of your property, usually your home, as well as where the most activity originates. It is also one of the first things you notice when you approach your property.

Optimizing the hub involves strengthening the connection between your home and its surrounding landscape, making the transition appear seamless. There are two major elements to consider when creating the perfect fit: hub identity and architectural composure and vistas and captured views. Hub identity and architectural composure addresses the environment and topography of the site, as well as the architectural style, size and mass of the house.

Hub identity involves the placement of the house on the site and how it’s situated on your property. Architectural composure refers to the style and size of the home, which is related to its placement on the site. Both of these factors should be considered when selecting plantings, trees, flowers, hardscapes and other landscaping elements for your home and property. For example, large scale plantings should be selected for grand homes.

Vistas and captured views also should be created and improved in your landscape. Vistas are scenic or panoramic views seen through a long, narrow opening between trees or buildings. Captured views refer to how your landscape looks from the windows and doors of your home. This can help build the connection between indoors and outdoors.

We’ll delve into the topics of hub identity and architectural composure and vistas and captured views later this month, so stay tuned for more information. You can also order Mary Palmer’s book “Timeless Landscape Design” for more information about building the visual connection in your landscape and the role of the hub in the four-part master plan.

If you’re ready to speak with a landscape architect about creating a four-part master plan for your own landscape, contact Dargan Landscape Architects.

One of the goals of creating a timeless landscape is to create memorable moments. When it comes to the approach and arrival sequence, memorable moments are visual images that occur at any point from the street to the front door. There are three areas in the approach and arrival sequence where you should focus on creating memorable moments. These include the drive portal and corridor, the parking court and the landing.

The drive portal, or entry node, consists of the apron, mailbox, plantings and drive surface. A memorable moment here could be a gate accented by plantings that frames a narrowing view of the corridor. Pay special attention to the apron, which is the interface between your private drive and the public road. Choosing a high contrast material to the public road for your apron creates a memorable moment.

The corridor is the drive between the portal and parking court. This also sets the tone with plantings, lighting, curves, etc. Offering a glimpse of your home along the drive increases anticipation. To jazz up your corridor, add bands and/or curbs in organic materials such as cobblestone.

A parking court is any driveway that brings cars to the front door. Think of it as a parking garden, a place with shady spots to park a car, textured pavement for visual interest, and flowers and pots for a personalized look. Soften large areas of pavement with islands of plant material. Above all, make it clear where to park.

The landing at the front of the house, which is the culmination of the approach and arrival sequence, should be designed to ease the transition from outdoors to indoors. Here, you can make a statement with the shape of the walk leading up to the walkway (straight or curved), as well as with a mix of materials to add texture to large expanses of pavement.

Whether you need help with your driveway or a master plan for your entire landscape, contact Dargan Landscape Architects. We’ll help you develop a plan that will transform your property and create memorable moments for all who enter.

For more information about creating a timeless landscape, order a copy of Mary Palmer’s book “Timeless Landscape Design” from our online store.

A fully expressed landscape begins at the curb and ends at your front door. Mary Palmer’s book, Timeless Landscape Design, outlines how homeowners can use an approach and arrival sequence in order to design an entry and front yard landscape that makes an indelible first impression.

This approach and arrival sequence has existed in landscape design for centuries. Traditionally, it consisted of a long drive, divided into sections, which led visitors to the front door. In a country home, this distance may consume several miles; in an urban development, it may only be a matter of yards. In either case, it serves as a portal, creating a beautiful and soothing transition from the public sphere to the private one.

Three Axioms to Make a Unique and Personal First Impression

Use the following axioms to guide the design of your approach and arrival sequence.

Axiom 1: Harmony of Materials. Select your color palate and hardscape materials from the outset and use them throughout the entire sequence to create a feeling of consistency, familiarity, and harmony. The architectural materials of the home and existing landscape should be incorporated into the new design as well.

Axiom 2: Seamless Flow. While you, the landscape designers and builders are aware you are creating a progressive experience, visitors and guests should feel as if it is a seamless, coherent whole – with one design element flowing effortlessly into the next.

Axiom 3: Modulate Space. Use your landscape to shape and mold the view, choosing plants for their particular visual interest in all seasons. Plants add shape, line, color and texture leading one through the sequence. Furnishings and hardscape features should be used sparingly.

The Anatomy of the Approach and Arrival Sequence

Your approach and arrival should be divided into three anatomical parts, designed to form a continuous body.

The anatomy of the approach and arrival sequence is comprised of:

• The Drive Portal and Corridor – This area should be treated so that it enhances “the personality of your approach with regard to color, mail collection, pots, paving and plant materials” to help express your property’s overall personality.
• Parking Court – Your parking court should be carefully planned so that it is large enough for your family and guests to use. To find the perfect arrangement for your property, use survey flags from your local hardware store and a tape measure to map it out.
• The Front Walk, Entry Node and Landing – This area will be your guests final welcome to your home. The walk should direct guests to your door with ease and, as a part of your landscape, can feature potted plants or color nodes to “reinforce its importance.” If this area has steps, consider landings every five or six steps to make it feel less steep.

Each of these areas should be thoughtfully considered as to how they comprise the whole. For more information on how to design a timeless landscape, pick up a copy of Mary Palmer’s book, Timeless Landscape Design, or contact Dargan Landscape Architects for professional assistance.