Landscaping Design - What is it and when do you need one?

Creating your ideal landscape requires detailed planning before you break ground to assess your property’s conditions, the local environment, your budget, and how much maintenance your landscape will require. Read on to learn more about landscape design and how having one can elevate your outdoor renovation experience. 

Questions to ask before you invest in a landscape design

It’s important to ask yourself a few questions before you embark on your landscape design process:

1. What are the conditions of your property? Is there plenty of sun or mostly shade? Is your yard flat or does it have some slopes you’ll need to contend with?
2. How do you plan to use the space? Are you a cook who envisions an outdoor kitchen? Do you want your outdoor space to be a place to relax, entertain, or both? If you have children, will you want a playground? Do you need a fence to keep the dog in?
3. Do you enjoy tending to a garden, or would you prefer a low-maintenance landscape? If garden work is not something you enjoy doing in your free time, you might consider a landscape that requires minimal maintenance.
4. Which landscape style best suits your home and lifestyle? Landscape design is personal. Take your time to curate the style that complements your home and lifestyle.

Landscape design is a major task that’s made easier by working with professionals. When you choose to work with a Zones Landscape Designer, you’ll have help throughout the entire process. Learn more about our Waitakere Landscape Designers and how they can help you transform your outdoor space.

Tips and advice for landscape design

In order to reap all of the benefits of your property, you’ll want to create an outdoor space that you can enjoy. And when you’re ready to sell your home, remember that beautiful outdoor spaces create curb-appeal. So you’ll want to make sure that your landscape design complements your home instead of detracting from it.

Before you dive into your landscape design project, be sure to spend some time in your current outdoor space. Walk around the area and get clear about what needs improvement or what you’d like to add. Sometimes clients skip this step and jump straight into the project, which can rob them of the time to get familiar with what it is they really want for their space.

Working with a professional landscape designer is a worthwhile investment, as they can help take a lot of the guesswork out of the process. They are experts in your area when it comes to local flora, council requirements, and helping you envision what’s possible for your budget.

How do I know I need a Landscape Plan?

No matter whether you’re considering an overhaul of your current yard or only adding a few finishing touches, you’ll want to have a plan in place that reflects your goals. Landscaping in West Auckland can pose particular challenges due to the area’s sloping terrain and water conservation requirements. 

Learn about the benefits of using Zones Landscape Designers for your project by reading our FAQ page here.

Different types of landscape design

Your Waitakere garden landscape design will depend on several factors, including your lifestyle, budget, and property. If you’re doing renovations, chances are you have some hard landscaping already in place. You’ll still have a lot of options when it comes to the design, but your current landscape gives you parameters to work within. If you have a new build, you’re starting with a clean slate! Garden landscaping for new builds is an exciting opportunity to start from scratch and make the space your own. Let’s explore a few styles for your landscape design:

Minimalistic: This style prioritises simplicity and functionality for a clutterless, modern look and feel. Think clean lines, open spaces, and a limited variety of plants. In a minimalist garden, emphasis lies on high quality materials that act as the focal point of the landscape.

Xeriscape: These sustainable designs use as much as 50% of household water for the garden. They’re filled with plants that don’t require much watering and design features that help retain water.

Tropical: Tropical landscape design plans are filled with lush, exotic plants to emulate a tropical paradise.Think plenty of greenery, bright coloured flowers, and water features like ponds or fountains. These vacation-inspired designs often have a resort-like feel with the addition of a pool or hot tub.

Japanese: Japanese gardens incorporate evergreen plants and rocks for a calm and peaceful environment. These nature-centric gardens offer a space to relax and meditate in your own backyard.

Read more about creating a functional landscape design that suits your lifestyle and property.

How much would a landscape plan cost?

Every landscape plan is unique, but a good place to start is to look at our previous projects to get an idea. Worried about how much a landscape designer would cost? At Zones, our local Landscaping Consultants have strong purchasing relationships with subcontractors and suppliers to make sure you get the best price.

Ready to take the first step toward your dream Waitakere landscape?

Then it’s time to talk to the West Auckland experts! Our Landscaping Consultants can help you map out your landscaping design. Contact Zones today to arrange a free, no obligation consultation.