Creating Your Beautiful Garden: A Simple Guide to Landscape Design Plan

Preparing a proper landscape design plan is a must if you want to enhance your outdoor spaces. With this, you can save time and money and also ensure the result is exactly what you have been wanting.

In this article, we are going to explore more about the components and benefits of a landscape design plan. In addition, you will see its future trends and which steps you need to follow to create it.

Future Trends in Landscape Design Plans

Whether it is for an elegant villa in Dubai, or the outdoor spaces of an apartment, a landscape design can create a beautiful area that reflects the luxury of the Dubai lifestyle.

However, most people look for a natural escape when it comes to their gardens, and they decide to opt for a green living. In the past years, landscape design has had a striking transformation that is shaping the focus on outdoor spaces.

The following are some of the future trends we expect to see when it comes to preparing a landscape design plan:

• Sustainability: eco-awareness is becoming the centre of many design projects. One of the future trends is to minimize water use by adding native plants and species that can withstand drought. This way, the place will look amazing without having to waste water by following the biophilic trends in the UAE.
• Desert scenery: given the unique beauty of Dubai, many homeowners are considering to implement desert-inspired gardens. Thus, you can see many elements like sand, rocks and native plants.
• Outdoor living spaces: one of the expected trends is to see indoor spaces replicated in the outdoors. For instance, outdoor kitchens or outdoor seating areas.
• Vertical gardens: when it comes to overcoming space limitations, vertical gardens are a great choice. By installing green walls, you can improve the aesthetic of the space and a touch of natural beauty.
• Smart technology: given the constant advancement of technology, it is expected to see more systems installed in outdoor spaces. For instance, lighting systems, smart irrigation to save water, and even robotic lawnmowers.

Benefits of a Landscape Design Plan

Just like when you are remodelling the interior architecture of your home you would need a plan, for redesigning your garden you also need a plan.

A landscape design plan is a way to give proper attention to all the details and elements you are considering adding. However, making a plan has more benefits than just refreshing the look of your outdoors.

The following are the additional benefits of making your landscape design plan:

• It helps you visualize your design ideas and make the best decisions.
• Allows you to create a space that allows you to connect with nature right at your home.
• By considering including native plants you are also protecting natural resources.
• It helps you use the area most prominently and take advantage of every corner of your outdoors.
• It decreases the likelihood of committing errors
• By taking into account the proper dimensions, you can wisely and carefully select the perfect objects you will add to your outdoors.
• It increases the value of your property, which is good if you are planning to rent it or sell it to obtain profit.
• With a good design, you and your family can enjoy time together and dwell in the natural habitat of Dubai.
• It is perfect for allowing your pets to have an extra space where they can roam around. Also, it is great for children as they have more space to play.

Keep in mind that to obtain all of these benefits, you need to partner with a great service provider. For this reason, you need to know how to choose the right construction company.

Components of a Landscape Design Plan

Before starting with landscape design planning, you have to take into account all of its components. Thus, this means you have to consider the following:

• Land: since you will be making the plan for your outdoors, you need to know the space. Learn about different factors, such as topography and climate, as well as the type of soil. This will help you determine which elements and materials you can use, and how to protect them.
• End-user: Another important component is the end-user. For instance, if you are an elderly couple, you may want to add relaxing areas. Or, if you have little children, you should consider security factors. If you are a young couple, you may want to gather with friends, and as such you such add sharing spaces.
• Theme: the theme you want to implement is also a key component. Some of the common themes are desert, contemporary, rock garden, etc.
• Materials: choose the materials like grass, flowers, plants, furniture, and many others according to the theme.
• Plants: plants are a key component as they give life to the design. In this regard, considering weather and soil, you have to choose plants that will thrive on your land.

Consider also how to plan the outdoor lighting as it is a crucial component for ensuring the place looks great even during the night.

Steps to Create a Landscape Design Plan

Creating a landscape design plan is not an easy task. However, if you want to simplify it, you have to follow the proper steps to achieve great results.

The design process is the following:

1. Measure your property to create the outline. You should know precisely the area in which you are going to make the design to choose the hardscape and components.
2. Add the existing features and the ornamental edges, as well as the building or house, poles, slopes, and any other. These features are those you cannot move. Consider also the sun and shades to plan accordingly.
3. Next, consider the moveable parts of your landscape. These are known as hardscapes and can be pavers, stones, rocks, decks, walls, driveways, and more.
4. Now, you have to think about garden beds and walking lawns as they add an aesthetic to the place. Thus, you have to consider which are the more relevant areas to add them.
5. Consider now elements like form, colour, texture, and scale to create the perfect balance between all the elements.
6. Find the spots for the shrubs and trees. Thus, you have to consider the space you have available. Keep in mind not to exceed with them as it can make your outdoors too overwhelming.

Once you have a plan, you need to review it constantly so you can determine if the elements you have chosen actually work or if you should make changes.

An innovative architecture firm can provide the support you need when it comes to creating your design plan.

Tips for DIY Landscape Design Planning

If you want to make your landscape design plan, you need to take into account several aspects to succeed. Consider following the next tips:

• Use an app or software for landscape design plans so it can be easier for you. These programs help you design easily, particularly if you do not have any experience.
• Use a measuring tape to measure your property and to obtain accurate measurements.
• Review your building plans if you do not know how to measure your land, as they have details about the outdoor space.
• Take pictures of your property to have with you when you are preparing the plan
• Consider requesting feedback from an architect to receive a second opinion about whether something will work or not.
• Keep in mind that your design plan may change as you work on it.

On the other hand, if you prefer to rely on experts, you can always look for ideal villa renovation contractors in Dubai.

FAQs for Landscape Design Plans

To prepare a landscape design plan you need to be highly familiar with the terms and steps to take. Since your goal is to achieve a harmonious outdoor space with the perfect balance between nature and the elements, then you need to solve all of your doubts before starting.

What is the planning process for landscape design?

The planning process involves the following:

1. Do a thorough analysis of the site, including making an inventory.
2. Determine the requirements and needs you have with your outdoor space.
3. Create diagrams where you can outline your ideas and visualize them.
4. Make a conceptual plan.
5. Draw the final plan.

How do I create a landscape layout?

To create a landscape layout, you have two options, either on paper or on your PC. In any case, consider the following:

• Create a base map that contains the perimeter of your property and exterior dimensions.
• Use the plot plan to have accurate measurements.
• Sketch the features that will not change regardless of the design, such as walls, walkways, fences, doors, pipes, and any other you will not move.
• Make several copies of your base map and start working on it.

Is there a free app to design landscapes?

There are several Apps and Programs for landscape design planning. Some of them are free while others are highly expensive. Nonetheless, it is possible to find cheaper options and even great solutions that offer great features and let you try them for a month or even for free.

How can I create a landscape design plan for my garden?

To create your landscape design plan, you need to consider the following:

• Understand the area you will redesign.
• The end-user and their needs.
• Desired style and/or theme.
• How to link elements.
• Environment and plants, and their interaction with the user.
• Layering
• Focal points and transition areas
• Colours, materials, and surface textures

What elements should be included in a landscape design plan?

In landscape design planning, the following are the most crucial elements to achieve a great result:

• Colour and composition of the softscape and hardscape.
• Lines that guide the design, both perceived and real.
• Shapes and forms of plants, trees and shrubs.
• Size of objects and their scale.

Can I DIY my landscape design plan, or should I hire a professional?

You can create your design plan by yourself, but keep in mind that you will obtain a better result if you hire a professional. In some cases, preparing it by yourself can be good, particularly for small areas or if you have a very limited budget.

However, if you really want a solution that matches the luxury and opulence of Dubai, then you need to find a professional well-versed in landscape design plans.

Hiring a professional will give you the following benefits:

• Professional-looking landscape.
• He or she will manage the landscape properly.
• Provide tons of ideas and different templates for you to choose from.
• Manage the expenses according to your budget.
• A professional can consider many aspects that you will not since they have greater attention to detail.

How do I choose the right plants for my landscape design plan?

To choose the right plants, you have to consider the following:

• Site conditions: light availability, water, exposure to weather, soil type, resistance to insects and diseases.
• Aesthetic considerations: the colour of bloom, season, texture, shape, longevity, growth habit, foliage colour, fall colour.
• Maintenance: low maintenance, high maintenance.

Keep in mind that it is best to opt for native plants, as they adapt better to the environment, and generally require lower maintenance.

What factors should I consider when designing a functional outdoor space?

When designing a functional space, you should take into account the following:

• Consider dividing the area into sections, if you separate them, you can take advantage of each space.
• Add elements that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, like an outdoor kitchen or a fire pit.
• Appropriate lighting choices will increase the functionality of the space, as you can use it in the evening too.
• Consider an indoor-outdoor connectivity to blend the lines and make it more functional.

Are there any budget-friendly options for implementing my landscape design plan?

When it comes to landscape design plans, there are many options you can choose from. If you want budget-friendly ideas, you can consider the following:

• To reduce costs, instead of buying plants you can purchase seeds and grow them. You can create a stunning landscape from scratch.
• Restore materials and recycle for a unique and eco-friendly design that would also be cost-effective.
• To create a unique focal point with a tight budget you can consider using vertical gardens.
• Use rocks to create natural borders as it adds a charming touch.
• Consider mixed plant beds as they give a lot of personality to the area and are less expensive.

How can I ensure that my landscape design plan is environmentally sustainable?

If you want to make your design sustainable, you do not have to do much. Just take advantage of what nature has to offer and avoid opting for contaminating materials.

The following are some of the resources you can use for an eco-friendly landscape design:

• Plant native species.
• Consider the existing vegetation to make areas for recreation if they give enough shade
• Install solar-powered lighting.
• Improve the soil of your land using natural substances/fertilizers.
• Integrate water bodies like fountains and ponds as a passive way to manage your water system.
• Consider smart water irrigation systems to decrease waste.

What are common mistakes to avoid when creating a landscape design plan?

If you want to obtain a great result with your design plan, you have to avoid doing the following:

• Not using your area wisely. Even though you have a small space, you can use walls for focal points and create raised garden beds for a space-efficient design.
• Overusing hard surfaces. Do not exceed with concrete or pavers, as your landscape will lack the softness plants can provide.
• Compromise design due to budget. Do not save money by using low-quality materials. It is best to prepare a design that is adapted to your budget to cut costs and obtain a mediocre result.
• Not paying attention to the soil. Assessing your soil is the first task you have to do. This will determine the type of plants you can use and if they can thrive.
• Ignoring boundaries. You need to know your limits well to avoid breaking rules or permits.

Where can I find inspiration for my landscape design plan?

Creating a design plan for your landscape may seem easy, but the truth is that you need to take into account your style and essence to reflect it. If you want to look for inspiration, check websites, social media, construction company’s ideas, and many more resources to get to know what to do next.

If you need additional assistance with your landscape design plan, you can always contact us. Here at LLA Interior Design, our priority is to make designs that are uniquely you, by envisioning all the details that are according to your essence.

With our innovation and authenticity, and as a top interior design company in Dubai, we can deliver a solution that exceeds your expectations.