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Creating the perfect outdoor space is not something that homeowners take lightly. Cutting your grass weekly is a good start, and incorporating Matt Blashaw’s outdoor lighting tips is also a step in the right direction.
DIY Network TV host and landscape designer Sara Bendrick. Image courtesy of STIHL
But what else can you do? Well, the National Association of Landscape Professionals has released its top 2019 landscaping trends. And landscape designer Sara Bendrick, host of DIY’s “I Hate My Yard,” author of “Big Impact Landscaping: 28 DIY Projects You Can Do on a Budget to Beautify and Add Value to Your Home,” and a STHIL spokesperson, provides insight regarding the NALP’s report – and adds a few of her own landscaping trends.
Multi-functional designs are beautiful and practical. Image: Werner Muenzker/Shutterstock
Trend #1: Two-in-one landscape design
Gone are the days of an either/or landscape. “Many people have limited space, so creating a landscape with multi-purpose features can add substantial property value, in addition to being a conversation piece,” Bendrick says. For example, a retaining wall can also double as seating, and instead of just a privacy fence, consider an edible garden on a trellis. “A fun example is creating a corn hole game on a back deck by building in corn hole boards flush to the deck with hinges. You can lift them open to play and put them back down when finished,” Bendrick says.
You have better things to do than mow your lawn. iMOW Robotic Mower. Image courtesy of STIHL
Trend #2: Automated lawn and landscape maintenance
Spending more time outdoors doesn’t necessarily mean spending more time working outdoors. And homeowners are looking for tools to make lawn care more convenient. “The latest in innovation includes smart sprinklers and robotic lawn mowers – but I recommend having a servicing dealer to do the initial install,” Bendrick says. “While it is great that so many landscape jobs are being automated, getting your hands dirty in the garden will never go out of style,” she says. However, you can incorporate technology while also feeling connected to your space.
Pergolas are versatile and practical. Image Spiderstock/Getty Images
Trend #3: Pergolas
“Pergolas are always on trend in my book. I love them for many reasons, but primarily because they bring scale, detail and shade to a space, making it more interesting and inviting,” Bendrick says. And because they’re so versatile, she says more people are seeing the value of adding them in their landscapes. “Incorporate amenities to make them more comfortable for longer, such as misters, fans, space heaters, lighting, adjustable louvers, and pull-down shade screens.”
Add pops of color with pink. Image: Peter Turner Photography/Getty Images
Trend #5: Pretty pink
Pops of color add pizazz to any landscape. Bendrick admits that pink traditionally leans feminine, but thinks colors, in general, are being seen as more gender neutral. “I expect to see pink used in both masculine and feminine designs,” she says. “A great way to incorporate pink would be to create a modern landscape with all white flowing plants, green foliage, charcoal concrete, a steel I-beam water feature and a pink accent wall.” Another trend is to use pink roses, hibiscus, petunias, and zinnias in flower beds to add pops of color.
Stainless steel would look good in your backyard. Artisan Fire Pizza Oven. Image courtesy of Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet
Trend #6: Mesmerizing metals
“I love using raw materials, specifically metal in landscape design. They add a sense of permanency and strength,” Bendrick says. She recommends using metal panels for decoration, as well as function, such as a privacy screen. Other trends include using metals in furniture and water features. “While I am a big fan of metal, it does jump up the price of the landscape as it’s typically more expensive than wood or plastic alternatives,” she says.
Gardening is fulfilling and provides beauty and nutrition. Image: Irina Fisher/Shutterstock
Other landscaping trends
Bendrick is also noticing other trends and considerations in landscape design.
Organic gardening
“People are becoming more and more interested in what they are eating, where it came from, and how it was harvested, leading them to more traditional methods of gardening.” Bendrick says.
Going local
“Sourcing local materials and incorporating native plants are trending as people are trying to be more resourceful and reduce their footprint.”
Landscape updates increase property value
Never underestimate the power of curb appeal. Set the stage for buyers. “It’s easy to imagine yourself relaxing at a home with a well-maintained landscape, outdoor space and a full garden,” Bendrick says. And she recommends creating a landscape that complements the home. Also, don’t just design for summer use. For example, fire pits and outdoor fireplaces can help you entertain in the fall and winter months.