Creating an Ideal Localscape

• Make waterings efficient
• Simplify irrigation
• Lower property maintenance
• Build a design for Utah’s climate

Planning Out the Landscape

As we mentioned at the end of our last blog, when we begin the localization process to your current landscape, we want to make sure that your yards are as functional as they are delightful to look at. First, we’ll figure out your space priorities. What are you in need of? What types of activities are you likely to do outside? The key to creating the perfect yard is striking a happy balance between the highly popular albeit lawn-dominant landscape and that of a “zero-scape” house. Both offer either extremes of landscaping, one side reflecting a high-maintenance, lush space, and the other low-maintenance, but often drab. While either extreme has it’s pros and cons, using their positive attributes together makes for an exciting and useful space.

Step 1:

Starting with an Open Space

Used as a core element for any yard, creating an open space for a traditional yard enables you to bring in other elements around a central point. Not only will this make your yards more appealing to look at from afar, but it generally draws one into the center.

Step 2:

Plan Out Areas for Gathering

Keep in mind the gathering areas you’ll need in your yards. This could be one large area in your backyard, or several smaller but well-planned spaces. Ideally, you’ll want at least an established area for seating in both your front and back yard. Never underestimate the area you design for social gatherings. If it’s a space you cannot easily utilize, you may never find yourself using it.

Step 3:

An Area for Activities

Different from a gathering area, an activity zone should be thought of as a genuine reason to get you and your family outside. This area may be anything from a children’s play area, to a designated garden space.

Step 4:

The Perfect Path

Designing harmony between the three above areas requires connective paths from space to space. From decorative gravel, concrete, or rock, there are countless ways to create safe, easy to use, and appealing walkways.

Step 5:

Planting Beds Irrigated planting beds can be used to fill out any leftover spaces. Using drips or bubblers in such areas can help you save even more water, and can decrease the potential for unwanted weeds setting in. Plantings can be added layer by layer, starting with trees and ending with shorter groundcover.

Starting Anew or Converting an Existing Space