With everything happening around the world, our yards are becoming powerful antidotes to modern stress. This year's landscaping trends reflect a growing consciousness about the role our outdoor spaces play in both our personal well-being and ecological health. The good news? Creating a yard that serves these dual purposes is more accessible than you might think. Let's start with one that might be closest to your heart:
1) Creating a space for connection
Most of our recent projects have involved creating dedicated gathering and entertaining spaces. We are seeing a surge in requests for dedicated gathering spaces – from fire pits encircled by comfortable seating, dining patios nestled among gardens, and lounging areas surrounded by lush plantings, which have become top priorities for homeowners.
At its heart, this landscaping trend captures our longing for authentic connection in spaces we can truly call our own. These spaces offer a welcoming, budget-friendly alternative to meeting friends and family at a restaurant. A simple yet effective space might feature a gravel surface with thoughtful seating, while more elaborate designs incorporate outdoor kitchens and pergolas, all enhanced by strategic plant positioning.
2) The Return to Natural Garden Forms
Gone are the days of the perfectly manicured look, with its demanding upkeep of shaped hedges and strict borders. Instead, homeowners are embracing more organic, flowing landscapes. This change reflects our busy schedules, which leaves little time for intensive maintenance and a deeper appreciation for natural beauty. Gardens are becoming less about showcasing control and more about creating authentic and welcoming spaces.
3) Beauty with Purpose: Native Plants & Sustainable Lawns
Native plants thrive naturally in local conditions, reducing maintenance while creating essential habitats for bees, birds, and butterflies. This transition doesn't have to require a radical change. You can start small, adding native plants gradually to create a garden that serves both your aesthetic preferences and the local ecosystem.
The shift toward sustainability extends to lawn alternatives as well. The resource-intensive nature of conventional turf grass—with its constant demands for water, chemicals, and labor—has prompted the exploration of alternatives. Whether through expanded garden beds or the adoption of microclover and fine fescue (these plants maintain a lawn-like appearance without having to be mowed, watered, or fertilized), homeowners are finding ways to maintain beautiful green spaces without the environmental cost.
As we've explored these trends, one thing is clear: creating a meaningful outdoor space isn't about perfection – it's about progress. You also don't need a massive budget or endless free time to start. You can start with what speaks to you, whether it's creating a cozy gathering space, letting your garden take on a more natural form, or including native plants that support your local ecosystem. What matters most is simply taking the first step, knowing each choice builds momentum towards an outdoor space that you can be proud of.