Landscape Architect Articles

Top 10 List from Colorado05-30-07 | News

Top 10 List from Colorado

Skiing in the winter (slopes in background) doesn?EUR??,,????'???t mean landscapers don?EUR??,,????'???t keep busy for most of the year in Colorado. Photo: ALCC.

In May, the Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado (ALCC) released its top landscape and garden trends for 2007. Many apply across the country.

Sustainable Gardens - Homeowners are looking for landscapes that conserve water, use locally produced or recycled materials, and employ environmentally responsible maintenance practices.
Multicultural Style - Consumers are bringing their vacations home by incorporating landscapes influenced by other cultures (e.g., Italian, French, Mediterranean or Middle Eastern style gardens, courtyards and fountains) into yards.
Scraper Planning - The continued boom of scrapers and pop-tops in Colorado’s older neighborhoods creates the need for proper planning and planting to ensure the landscape is as functional and attractive as the new or remodeled home.
Melding Interior and Exterior Design - Outdoor living continues with a strong emphasis on creating a cohesive flow between interior and exterior spaces.
Big Impact for Small Spaces - The trend toward smaller yards causes homeowners to make the most of their small spaces by enhancing privacy, selecting plant material designed for small spaces and choosing designs that maximize functionality.
Attractive Xeriscape - Years of continuous drought raised awareness about water use and made xeriscape more than a passing fad.
Exterior Lighting - Homeowners want to extend enjoyment of outdoor spaces into after-dark hours.
Water Features - Trends include installing several water features throughout the yard, as well as pond-less features and fountains to enhance sight and sound.
Landscape Makeovers - The ?EUR??,,????'??Reality TV?EUR??,,????'?? craze to refurbish homes and landscapes has spilled into the mainstream. Consumers are looking at ways to refresh a dated landscape or start from scratch by incorporating new decks, patios and gardens.
Planning is in - More homeowners are looking at blueprints to help them design their landscapes by creating garden plans on their own or hiring professionals to create well-designed yards to fit their lifestyles and budgets.