Landscape renovations or renewals are similar to home renovations but with a focus on outdoor spaces.
As we approach the first official day of spring, it’s time to consider what that means for you and your Oklahoma outdoor living spaces. Most homeowners like to get to know their property before investing in substantial upgrades.
That’s smart thinking because landscaping improvements have one thing in common with interior upgrades. Contractor mobilization and standard site work costs typically amount to 5-15% of the total project cost. So, it makes sense to combine small upgrades into one project to maximize your budget.
In landscaping terminology, we use the term site work to describe everything that must be done to ensure the integrity of the visual and functional enhancements. This may include installing underground drainage, irrigation, or lighting system infrastructure, removing overgrown or declining plantings, or amending the soil to ensure new plantings will thrive.
Most people like to think of functional landscaping changes as renovations, with renewals more accurately describing aesthetic improvements that enhance the overall design and curb appeal.
Here are ten landscape renewal ideas that can inspire Oklahoma homeowners to move ahead with landscaping renovations and renewals.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Developing areas for relaxation, dining, or entertaining, can transform what was a yard into functional living spaces that integrate with the living space of a home. Patios and decks, pergolas, or even an outdoor kitchen are all among the top-rated outdoor living improvements.
In addition to elevating your lifestyle, functional outdoor living spaces typically return the original investment plus a tidy profit when it comes time to sell the home.
Native Plant Gardens
Utilizing native plants not only ensures adaptability and lower maintenance but also supports local wildlife. It’s a sustainable approach to creating breathtaking interest in gardens that offer year-round color, texture, and habitat interest.
It turns out that many residential landscapes use few native perennials and ornamental grasses. In addition to their extended and sometimes repeating bloom cycles, these natives have elegant winter interest that complements traditional ornamental plantings.
Water Features and Elements
Introducing moving water to outdoor spaces adds an element of calm. Adults and children alike are attracted to the sight and soothing sounds of water that also serves as a habitat for birds.
Reflecting ponds and more natural ponds with waterfalls are homeowner favorites. However, if you prefer to keep your water features tidy and simple, the more elegant fountains or bubblers with basalt or granite stone elements may be just right.
Fire Pits and Features
Fire pits or fire features provide a cozy gathering space, especially during cooler evenings. They often become a central focus for social gatherings or a quiet, relaxing night outdoors.
Properly designed, fire pits can provide year-round interest and utility. Just as indoor fireplaces serve as natural focal points, so do outdoor fire features. They provide warmth when ignited, yet many fire tables also transform into architectural light features for use during warmer months.
Vegetable and Herb Gardens
Vegetable and herb gardens are not just about growing food; they’re about creating a space that encourages interaction with nature, provides a sense of accomplishment, and can even act as a therapeutic retreat.
Incorporating composting areas within or adjacent to the garden can promote a sustainable cycle of nutrients. Water conservation can also be addressed through drip irrigation systems or rainwater harvesting, making the garden both eco-friendly and functional.
Lighting for Ambiance and Safety
Outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in transforming the ambiance of outdoor spaces while ensuring safety during evening hours. This includes adequately illuminating pathways, steps, and level changes, as well as entry points to the home.
This can be achieved through a mix of lighting types, including soft landscape lighting, architectural path lights, and strategically placed accent lighting to create dramatic shadowing. Accent lighting can also highlight specific features like trees, sculptures, or water features, adding depth and interest to the landscape.
Pathways and Walkways
Well-designed pathways not only improve the accessibility of the outdoor spaces but also add an element of charm and organization to the outdoor space.
The choice of materials for pathways should complement the home’s architecture and the landscape’s style. Options range from natural blue stone and brick pavers to manufactured pavers of varied dimensions, material textures, and colors for design flexibility.
Seasonal Color with Perennials and Annuals
Incorporating plants that bloom at different times of the year ensures that the garden remains vibrant and colorful throughout the seasons. Yet, many homeowners struggle with this because they fail to properly prepare the soil.
There’s a saying among landscape professionals: Put a $1.00 plant in a $5.00 hole. This expression is intends to emphasize the importance of amending, and sometimes, replacing the existing soil with fresh, loamy soil that will nurture tender plantings.
Each of these ideas can be tailored to fit various styles, budgets, and space considerations. Personalization is particularly effective for making your landscape renovation or renewal one that is truly your own.
Proactive Landscaping: Helping Oklahoma Homeowners Enjoy Outdoor Living
Our top priority is creating living spaces that are right for you. We pride ourselves on working with you from concept to construction to create the right landscape for your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation to explore your next landscaping project.
