What Are the 7 Principles of Landscape Design?

The 7 Principles of Landscape Design are fundamental aspects of the art and science of landscape architecture. Essentially, these principles dictate how to best create a functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space. While it is possible to design a landscape without adhering to these principles, doing so can often lead to an undesirable end result.

The 7 Principles of Landscape Design are: unity, balance, form, scale, texture, color and repetition.

Unity is achieved when all elements in a landscape come together harmoniously to form one cohesive design. Balance is achieved when the elements of the landscape are arranged in an aesthetically pleasing way that provides visual equilibrium. Form is how the individual elements in a landscape relate to one another in terms of shape and size; scale refers to the size relationships between elements in a landscape; texture is the surface quality or “feel” of objects; color refers to how light reflects off of objects and can be used to create focal points or draw attention to certain areas; and repetition refers to repeating certain elements throughout a design in order to create a unified look.

Unity is perhaps the most important principle as it ties all other principles together into one cohesive design. Balance is also very important as it helps create visual equilibrium that can provide a sense of peace and orderliness.

Form helps define relationships between elements while scale helps determine their sizes relative to one another. Texture adds dimension and interest while color can be used for emphasis or contrast. Finally, repetition helps unify disparate elements into one cohesive design.

In conclusion, the 7 Principles of Landscape Design are essential components for creating an aesthetically pleasing outdoor space that will function properly over time. Unity ties everything together while balance provides visual equilibrium.

Form dictates relationships between elements while scale determines sizes relative to one another. Texture adds interest while color can be used for emphasis or contrast.