A landscaped site is a visual delight

THIS is the time of year to start transferring your lofty landscaping aspirations into reality. The returns are certain, both from an aesthetic and financial perspective. First impressions mean everything and often it’s the exterior of a property that’s noticed first.

A neat and well-maintained site surrounding a dwelling is the first thing someone will notice, which is why it pays to give landscaping and site care some attention.

Landscaping is a combination of creativity and practicality. Being able to blend the concept of design within existing landscapes is one that requires you to work with, not against, the natural surrounds.

For example, if drainage is a problem there’s little point in planting shrubs that require good irrigation. Likewise, a windy site first needs the practical input of shrubs and trees that will grow overtime to protect more decorative features and plants. Many people buying our building a house for the first time tend to get fixated on interior and relegate landscaping till last. But this is changing, as more householders now realise the visual appeal and added attraction of a well-manicured site.

But proper landscaping and design doesn’t just apply to manicured lawns and fancy hedges. Over the past decade or so a move towards Mediterranean style designs have focused on maximising the visual appeal and practical usage of smaller gardens. Smaller gardens work really well with attractive patio slaps and permanent concrete garden furniture that come in beautifully designed Roman and Greek themes. These can add a real sense of timelessness to a garden.

Landscaping is a multi-disciplinary artform incorporating engineering, mathematics, nature, and a personal philosophy. All designs invariably start on paper and if you have the means to see your concept out from start to finish, well and good. But once you’ve settled on a design it won’t do any harm to seek the advice of experts. There are plenty good landscapers out there with experience who can provide a consultation. So, make the most of your home, inside and out.