What Is Holistic Landscape Design?

Holistic landscape design is an approach to outdoor space design that considers the context and environment of the site. It is a way of looking at a property as an integrated system and then designing it to be in harmony with its natural environment. This approach can be used for residential, commercial, or public spaces, as well as for large-scale projects.

The holistic landscape design process starts with an analysis of the existing conditions of the site. This includes looking at factors such as terrain, topography, climate, soil type, existing vegetation, and hydrology. With this information in hand, designers can then develop a plan that takes into account the ecology of the area and works to preserve and enhance it.

The next step is to create an overall vision for the project that takes into account both human needs and ecological needs. This includes things like providing access to nature while minimizing impacts on wildlife habitat; taking advantage of natural features such as water resources or views; creating attractive outdoor spaces; and using sustainable materials and methods in construction.

Once the vision has been established, designers can begin selecting plants and other elements that will help bring the design to life. This could include trees, shrubs, grasses, flowers, rocks or other hardscaping elements. It’s important to select plants that will thrive in the local climate and soil conditions; this will ensure they are low-maintenance and reduce water usage over time.

Finally, designers should consider how people will interact with their landscape design. This could include implementing pathways or seating areas throughout the space so people can enjoy it more easily. It may also involve using native plants in order to attract wildlife such as birds or butterflies.

Conclusion:

Holistic landscape design is a thoughtful approach to outdoor space design that considers how people use it while also preserving its natural environment. It involves analyzing existing conditions on a site before creating an overall vision for the project that meets both human needs and ecological needs. The final step is selecting plants and other elements that will bring this vision to life while enhancing rather than damaging the ecology of the area.