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We instinctively recognize aesthetic design in an object or scenery. However, explaining why it is visually appealing becomes difficult for most people. There are, however, underlying principles that provide an opportunity to elicit human appreciation for beauty. We refer to these principles as design principles.

Landscape architects in Orange County, California, base their projects and presentations on these principles because they have a sense of cohesion and beauty. When you practice these design solutions, you can push your skills to achieve even the most outrageous ideas. The following is a discussion of these principles which can help your landscape project progress.

Seven Principles of Landscape Design that Benefits the Environment

Design principles can be found anywhere, not just in computer-aided design or drawings. The basic regulations of design can be found in the environment, roads, parks, clothes, and even the average brush you use for your hair.

In all states, landscape and building architects are influenced by these design principles for their education programs and firm services. The following principles are what make a landscape design not only beautiful but also balanced.

1. Unity

A sense of unity is created when different elements of a design come together to form a whole. The idea is that different elements of a landscape are supposed to complement one another in order to create a cohesive whole.

A variety of methods can be used to achieve unity in landscape design. A great way to achieve this is to position plants according to their shape. You can consider uniformly shaped trees and shrubs in your yard and around your lawn. 

2. Balance

In terms of visual weight, balance refers to how objects, colors, textures, and spaces are distributed. Simply put, it’s all about creating a sense of equality, which boosts the visual appeal of locations. In addition to the more commonly known symmetrical (formal) balance, there is an asymmetrical (informal) balance as well.

When the landscape is in symmetrical balance, the two sides are mirror images of one another. An example is a tree lying left of the symmetrical line that is identical in size to a tree adjacent to it on the right. In landscape design, taking this approach requires constant maintenance in order to maintain an identical appearance on both sides.

An asymmetrical balance, on the other hand, allows for a more chaotic arrangement of objects. Therefore, it provides more freedom. Their landscape composition consists of different elements that are balanced by their imaginary weights.

3. Simplicity

In design, simplicity consists of minimizing and refining details. Its characteristics are to keep landscapes simple, not cluttered or fussy. However, simplicity does not imply that complex features should be avoided. 

It is common to find complex landscaping materials, such as water features, extensive lighting features, and complex architectural designs in your gardens. In planning your restoration work, your goal should be to avoid overusing colors, shapes, curves, and textures in structures. It all comes down to balancing things out for a more cohesive aesthetic.

4. Proportion

The proportion describes the relationship between parts of a design and their overall size. Your landscape needs to be proportionately sized in terms of buildings, plants, space, and decorative elements. As a result, vertical, horizontal, and spatial relationships demand to be considered.

By keeping proportion in mind, landscape architects take the size and shape of the space into consideration. Larger homes with larger backyards benefit from landscape elements that fill them out so that everything appears cohesive rather than out of place.

5. Focalization

In any good landscape architecture, the clients’ eye is drawn to a focal point. Consider a fountain surrounded by bushes, for example. Fountains are focal points since they draw viewers’ attention to the centerpiece.

It is common for viewers to notice features such as bright colors, complex shapes, statues, high-tech features, etc. Landscape designs generally have one main focal point and several minor focal points located in various parts of the landscape. If this principle is overused, the opposite can occur.

Focus is achieved by defining a focal point in your environmental design. The focal point for any landscaped area should naturally draw attention when viewed, whether it’s your garden area, the area surrounding your pool, or the area adjacent to your front or back entrance.

6. Rhythm

Layman’s terms describe a rhythm as something repeated in areas at a standard interval. You can do this by lining up plants, benches, or lamp posts at equal intervals. Using this principle in your construction plans, a landscape’s sense of movement can be soothing to the soul, thereby attracting people to it.

It is essential to take rhythm into consideration when designing a landscape field, as it is a key component of the overall design. For instance, a landscape architect could put an equal distance between each plant in a garden featuring beach pebbles. The edges of pathways or walkways can also be cradled by bushes or flowers that form defined lines.

7. Contrast

The study of contrast benefits from the juxtaposition of opposing elements to create visual interest. The arrangement of color on your land features can be transformed into a strikingly fresh and appealing scene by alternating colors.

It is also possible to use contrast in landscape design to create perspective. Some warm color like orange or red, for example, makes an object stand out and look closer to you. Cold colors, such as green and blue, make objects appear further away.

Partner With Calimingo’s Top-Rated Landscape Architects in Orange County

Landscape design principles will enhance the appearance and value of your urban property. Additionally, people of all ages can enjoy many opportunities from this enjoyable and rewarding recreation. Make sure you research and plan your project carefully before you begin landscape gardening.

Having professional supervision over your properties would ensure your landscape projects receive the best treatment. At Calimingo Pools, our team of landscape architects in Orange County strives to reach your standards by creating sites that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. 

Need to know more information about landscaping management and construction projects? Contact us today at 714-235-3294 or connect@calimingo.com to schedule a consultation session!

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