CIR536

Basic Principles of Landscape Design

Gail Hansen2

a n d s c a p e d e s i g n e r s w o r k on a canvas
that is distinctly different from other art forms.
The art is always changing as the plants grow,
environmental conditions change, and people use the space.
For this reason, landscape designers use a design process
that systematically considers all aspects of the land, the
environment, the growing plants, and the needs of the user
to ensure a visually pleasing, functional, and ecologically
healthy design.
Elements and Principles
The design process begins by determining the needs and
desires of the user and the conditions of the site. With this
information, the designer then organizes the plants and
hardscape materials, which are collectively referred to as
the features. The features can be physically described by
the visual qualities of line, form, color, texture, and visual
weightthe elements of design. The principles are the
fundamental concepts of compositionproportion, order,
repetition, and unitythat serve as guidelines to arrange or
organize the features to create an aesthetically pleasing or
beautiful landscape.

Line

Line in the landscape is created by the edge between two

materials, the outline or silhouette of a form, or a long
linear feature. Lines are a powerful tool for the designer
because they can be used to create an infinite variety of
shapes and forms, and they control movement of the eye
and the body. Landscape designers use lines to create
patterns, develop spaces, create forms, control movement,
establish dominance, and create a cohesive theme in a
landscape. Landscape lines are created several ways: when
two different materials meet on the ground plane, such
as the edge of a brick patio meeting an expanse of green
turf; or when the edge of an object is visible or contrasts
with a background, such as the outline of a tree against the
sky; or by the placement of a material in a line, such as a
fence. Figure 1 shows common landscape lines, including
bedlines, hardscape lines, path lines, sod lines, and fence
lines. Lines can have one or more characteristics, such as
those described below, but they typically serve different
purposes.

Knowledge of the elements and principles of design is

essential to designing a landscape and working through
the design process. This publication describes each of the
elements and explains the principles and their application.

Elements of Design
The elements of composition are the visual qualities that
people see and respond to when viewing a space. Visual
qualities can illicit many different emotions and feelings,
and the more positive those feelings, the more likely people
are to enjoy and use a space. Perhaps the most common
element in a composition is line. Line creates all forms
and patterns and can be used in a variety of ways in the
landscape.

f i g u r e 1 . Lines in the landscape

 is document is CIR536, one of a series of the Environmental Horticulture Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and
Th
Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Original publication date July 2010. Visit the EDIS Web Site at http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu.

 ail Hansen, assistant professor, Environmental Horticulture Department, Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University
G
of Florida, Gainesville FL 32611.

Informal, naturalistic forms include meandering lines,

organic edges, and fragmented edges. Plants create form in
the garden through their outlines or silhouettes, but form
can also be defined by a void or negative space between
plants.

Properties of Lines
The properties of lines determine how people respond to
the landscape, both emotionally and physically.

Straight lines
Straight lines are structural and forceful; they create a
formal character, are usually associated with a symmetrical
design, and lead the eye directly to a focal point. Diagonal
lines are straight lines with an intentional direction.
Straight lines are most often found in hardscape edges and
material.

Geometric Forms
Circular form
Circles can be full circles, or they can be divided into half
circles or circle segments and combined with lines to create
arcs and tangents. Figure 2 shows the use of circle segments
for hardscape and lawn panels. Circles can also be stretched
into ovals and ellipses for more variety and interest. Circles
are a strong design form because the eye is always drawn to
the center, which can be used to emphasize a focal point or
connect other forms.

Curved lines
Curved lines create an informal, natural, relaxed character
that is associated more with nature and asymmetrical
balance. Curved lines move the eye at a slower pace and add
mystery to the space by creating hidden views.
Vertical lines
Vertical lines move the eye up, making a space feel larger.
An upward line can emphasize a feature and has a feeling
of activity or movement. Vertical lines in the landscape
include tall, narrow plant material, such as trees, or tall
structures, such as an arbor or a bird house on a pole.
Horizontal lines
Horizontal lines move the eye along the ground plane and
can make a space feel larger. Low lines are more subdued
and create a feeling of rest or repose. Horizontal lines can
spatially divide a space or tie a space together. Low lines are
created by low garden walls, walkways, and short hedges.
Lines are used to draw forms on a plan. In plan view, they
define plant beds and hardscape areas. Lines are also
created by the vertical forms of built features and plant
material. There are three primary line types that create
form in the landscape: bedlines, hardscape lines, and plant
lines. Bedlines are created where the edge of the plant bed
meets another surface material, such as turf, groundcover,
gravel, or patio pavers. Bedlines connect plant material to
the house and hardscape because the eye follows the line,
moving the gaze through the landscape. Hardscape lines
are created by the edge of the hardscape, which delineates
the built structure. Line can also be created by long and
narrow materials, such as a fence or wall.

f i g u r e 2 . Circular forms in hardscape and lawn panels

Square form
Squares are used for a variety of features, including
stepping stones, bricks, tiles, and timber structures, because
they are an easy form to work with for construction. The
square form can also be segmented and used repeatedly to
create a grid pattern. Unlike circles, squares are stronger
on the edges, which can be lined up or overlapped to create
unique patterns and more complex forms.
Irregular polygons
Polygons are many-sided forms with straight edges.
Triangles, for example, are three-sided polygons. The angled
edges of polygons can make interesting shapes, but they
should be used cautiously because the forms can become
complex; simplicity is best.

Form

Shape is created by an outline that encloses a space, and

form is the three-dimensional mass of that shape. Form
is found in both hardscape and plants, and it is typically
the dominant visual element that spatially organizes the
landscape and often determines the style of the garden. The
form of structures, plant beds, and garden ornaments also
determines the overall form theme of the garden. Formal,
geometric forms include circles, squares, and polygons.

Naturalistic Forms
Meandering lines
Meandering lines often mimic the natural course of rivers
or streams and can be described as smooth lines with
2

deeply curved undulations. Meandering lines (Figure 3)

work well for pathways, plant bedlines, and dry stream
beds. Meandering lines can add interest and mystery to a
garden by leading viewers around corners to discover new
views and spaces.

f i g u r e 5 . Fragmented edges: stepping stones in pathway

Plant Forms
Form is the most enduring quality of a plant. Common
plant forms are well established and standardized, as form
is the most consistent and recognizable characteristic of
plants. Form can also be created through the massing of
plants, where the overall mass creates a different form
than an individual plant. A strong form that contrasts with
the rest of the composition will have greater emphasis
within the composition. A highly contrasting form must
be used with careone or two work well as a focal point,
but too many create chaos. Natural plant forms, rather
than over-trimmed forms, should establish the bulk of the
composition. The relevance of overall form is more or less
dependent on the viewing perspectivethe form of a tree
can appear quite different to a person standing under the
canopy versus viewing the tree from a distance in an open
field. Vertical forms add height; horizontal forms add width.
Plant forms also create and define the void or open spaces
between the plants, creating either convex or concave forms
in the voids. High-arching tree branches typically create
a concave open space under the branches, and a round
canopy with low branches fills the space to create a convex
form in the open space under the tree.

f i g u r e 3 . Meandering lines in the landscape

Organic edges
Organic edges mimic the edges of natural material, such
as foliage, plant forms, and rocks, and can be described as
rough and irregular. Organic lines can be found in rock
gardens and along dry creek beds or purposely created on
hardscape edges.

Tree forms
Common tree forms (Figure 6) include round, columnar,
oval, pyramidal, vase shaped, and weeping. Different
tree forms are used for visual appeal, but the form is
also important for function. Creating a shady area in
the garden requires a round or oval tree, while a screen
usually requires a more columnar or pyramidal form, and a
weeping tree form makes a good focal point.

f i g u r e 4 . Organic edges: irregular edge of rock garden

Fragmented edges
Fragmented edges resemble broken pieces scattered from
the edge, such as stones or pavers, and are often used to
create a gradually disappearing edge on patios or walkways.

People can often perceive a form when only a portion of it is

visible. Familiarity and the suggestion of a form is enough
for the eye to fill in the rest. Repetition of form is essential
to the creation of pattern, which is the basic organizational
structure of the landscape.
Form is also the primary determinant of a formal or
informal garden. Geometric forms with straight edges are
typical of formal gardens that are based on an established
style, such as contemporary or Italian gardens. An
informal garden has more naturalistic, organic forms
that are normally found in gardens that mimic nature.
Form compatibility is also a major component of unity in
designone or two strikingly different forms are good for
contrast and emphasis, but generally all other forms should
have some similarities for a unified look.

f i g u r e 6 . Tree forms

Shrub forms
Shrub forms (Figure 7) include upright, vase shaped,
arching, mounding, rounded, spiky, cascading, and
irregular. Choosing shrub forms often depends on whether
the shrub will be used in a mass or as a single specimen.
Mounding and spreading shrubs look best in a mass, and
cascading and vase-shaped shrubs do well as specimen
plants.

Texture

Texture refers to how coarse or fine the surface of the

plant or hardscape material feels and/or looks. Texture
is used to provide variety, interest, and contrast. The
plants foliage, flowers, bark, and overall branching pattern
all have texture. The size and shape of the leaves often
determines the perceived texture of the plant. A plant can
generally be described as having a coarse, medium, or fine
texture. Coarse texture is more dominant than fine and
also tends to dominate color and form, while fine texture
is more subordinate to other qualities and tends to unify
compositions. Coarse-textured plants attract the eye and
tend to hold it because the light and dark contrasts of the
shadows provide more interest. Fine texture exaggerates
distance and gives the feeling of a larger, more open space.
Rough texture minimizes distanceplants appear closer

Groundcover forms
Groundcover forms (Figure 7) include matting, spreading,
clumping, sprawling, and short spikes. Almost all
groundcovers look better in masses because they are
typically small, ground-hugging plants that have very little
impact as individual plants.
Properties of Form
Form is very powerful because people can often recognize
and identify a feature based on an outline or silhouette.

f i g u r e 7. Shrub and groundcover forms

and the space feels smaller, or enclosed. Texture is also

found in the hardscape, including on buildings, patios,
walls, and walkways.

space feel smaller, place the coarse textures along the outer
perimeter and the fine textures closest to the viewer. The
detail of the coarse texture makes the plants appear closer
and makes the space feel smaller. The perceived texture of
plants can also change with the distance from the plant.
Plants that are coarse close-up can look fine textured from
a distance. Bold colors increase the contrast and make
the texture appear coarser, while muted colors can flatten
texture. Hardscape with a coarse texturesuch as very
rough rocks and bold, large timberstends to make all
plant material appear more medium textured. Designers
often develop a texture study (Figure 8) on paper to help
decide the arrangement of plant materials. The drawing
mimics texture by using different line weights and spacing
to represent fine, medium, and coarse textures.

Coarse texture
Plant characteristics that create coarse texture include
large leaves; leaves with very irregular edges; bold, deep
veins; variegated colors; thick twigs and branches; leaves
and twigs with spines or thorns; and bold, thick, and/
or irregular forms. Each leaf of a coarse-textured plant
breaks up the outline, which gives the plant a looser
form. Examples of plants with coarse texture include
philodendrons, agaves, bromeliads, hollies, palms, and
hydrangeas. Hardscape with coarse texture includes roughcut stone, rough-finished brick, and unfinished wood with
knots and a raised grain. Aged or old construction material
that maintains a weather-beaten surface is often coarse in
texture.
Fine texture
Characteristics that create fine texture include small
foliage; thin, strappy leaves (grasses) or tall, thin stems; tiny,
dense twigs and small branches; long stems (vines); and
small, delicate flowers. They are often described as wispy
and light or with a sprawling, vining form. Fine-textured
plants sometimes have a stronger form because the small
individual leaves are densely packed (e.g., boxwoods)
to create a solid edge. Plants with a fine texture include
grasses, ferns, Japanese maples, many vines, and junipers
with fine needles. Hardscape with fine texture includes
smooth stone, wood or ceramic pots, and glass ornaments.
Smooth water, such as that found in a reflecting pool, or
water with a very fine spray is considered fine textured.

f i g u r e 8 . Texture study

Color

Color in plant material and hardscape adds interest and

variety to the landscape. Color is the most conspicuous
element in the landscape and is usually the focus of most
homeowners; however, it is also the most temporary
element, usually lasting only a few weeks a year for
individual plants. The use of color is guided by color theory
(use of the color wheel) to create color schemes. A simple
description of the color wheel includes the three primary
colors of red, blue, and yellow; the three secondary colors
(a mix of two primaries) of green, orange, and violet; and
six tertiary colors (a mix of one adjacent primary and
secondary color), such as red-orange. Color theory explains
the relationship of colors to each other and how they should
be used in a composition. The basic color schemes are
monochromatic, analogous, and complementary.

Medium texture
Most plants are medium texture, in that they cannot be
described as having either coarse or fine texture. They are
characterized by medium-sized leaves with simple shapes
and smooth edges. The average-sized branches are not
densely spaced nor widely spaced, and the overall form is
typically rounded or mounding. Medium-textured plants
act as a background to link and unify the coarse- and
fine-textured plants. Plants with medium texture include
agapanthus, ardisia, camellia, euonymus, pittosporum,
and viburnum. Hardscape with a medium texture includes
standard flagstone pavers, broom-brushed concrete, and
finished woods.

Monochromatic scheme
A monochromatic color scheme uses only one color. In
landscaping, this usually means one other color besides the
green color in the foliage. A garden that is all green depends
more on form and texture for contrast and interest. One
color can have many light and dark variations, which can
add interest. An example of a monochromatic scheme is a
white garden with white flowers, white variegated foliage,
and white garden ornaments.

Properties of Texture
Texture affects the perception of distance and scale. To
make a space feel larger, locate plants so that the fine
textures are along the outer perimeter, the medium textures
are in the middle, and the coarse textures are closest to
the viewer. The small size of the fine texture recedes in the
landscape and is perceived as being farther away. To make a

Analogous scheme
Analogous (sometimes called harmonious) color schemes
are any three to five colors that are adjacent on the color
wheel, such as red, red-orange, orange, yellow-orange, and
yellow, or blue, blue-violet, and violet. The colors are related
to each other because they typically include two primary
colors mixed to form a secondary and two tertiary colors,
which means they share common properties.

amount of intense color has as much visual weight as a large

amount of a more subdued or weaker color. Color schemes
in the garden can change with the seasons. Summer colors
are usually more varied and bright with more flowers, while
winter colors tend to be monochromatic and darker with
more foliage. Color is also affected by light quality, which
changes with the time of day and time of year. Brighter,
more intense summer sun makes colors appear more
saturated and intense, while the filtered light of winter
makes colors appear more subdued. When choosing a color
scheme, consideration should be given to the time of day
the yard will be used. Because color is temporary, it should
be used to highlight more enduring elements, such as
texture and form. A color study (Figure 9) on a plan view is
helpful for making color choices. Color schemes are drawn
on the plan to show the amount and proposed location of
various colors.

Complementary scheme
Complementary colors are those that are opposite each
other on the color wheel. They tend to have high contrast
between them. The most common sets are violet and yellow,
red and green, and blue and orange. Complementary colors
are often found naturally in flowers; a common pair is
yellow and violet.
Color in Plants and Hardscape
Color is found in the flowers, foliage, bark, and fruit of
plants. Foliage typically provides the overall background
color for flower colors. Green foliage in all its various shades
is the dominant color by quantity, but other colors capture
attention more readily because of their high contrast to the
color green.
Color is also found in buildings, rocks, pavers, wood, and
furniture. Most colors in natural materials, such as stone
and wood, are typically muted and tend to be variations
of brown, tan, and pale yellow. Bright colors in the
hardscape are usually found in man-made materials, such
as painted furniture, brightly colored ceramic containers or
sculptures, and glass ornaments.
Properties of Color
Color is an important element for creating interest and
variety in the landscape. Colors have properties that can
affect emotions, spatial perception, light quality, balance,
and emphasis. One property of color is described relative
to temperaturecolors appear to be cool or warm and can
affect emotions or feelings. Cool colors tend to be calming
and should be used in areas for relaxation and serenity.
Warm colors tend to be more exciting and should be used
in areas for entertaining and parties. The temperature of
colors can also affect the perception of distance. Cool colors
tend to recede and are perceived as being farther away,
making a space feel larger. Warm colors tend to advance
and are perceived as being closer, making a space feel
smaller.

f i g u r e 9. Color study

Visual Weight

Visual weight is the concept that combinations of certain

features have more importance in the composition based
on mass and contrast. Some areas of a composition are
more noticeable and memorable, while others fade into
the background. This does not mean that the background
features are unimportantthey create a cohesive look by
linking together features of high visual weight, and they
provide a resting place for the eye. A composition where all
features have high visual weight often looks chaotic because
the eye tends to bounce between the features. High visual
weight usually comes from a group of plants with one or
a few of the following characteristics: upright or unusual
forms, large size, bright colors, bold texture, and diagonal
lines. Low visual weight is found in low horizontal lines,
prostrate or low forms, fine texture, and subdued or dull
colors (Figure 10).

Color can also be used to capture attention and direct

views. Focal points can be created with bright colors. For
example, bright yellow, which has the highest intensity, also
has a high contrast with all other colors (often described
as a pop of color) and should be used sparingly. A small

Proportion in hardscape
Features are most functional for people when they fit
the human body. Benches, tables, pathways, arbors, and
gazebos work best when people can use them easily and feel
comfortable using them (Figure 11). The hardscape should
also be proportional to the housea deck or patio should
be large enough for entertaining but not so large that it
doesnt fit the scale of the house.

f i g u r e 1 0 . Visual weight by mass and contrast

Principles of Design
Design principles guide designers in organizing elements for
a visually pleasing landscape. A harmonious composition
can be achieved through the principles of proportion, order,
repetition, and unity. All of the principles are related, and
applying one principle helps achieve the others. Physical
and psychological comfort are two important concepts in
design that are achieved through use of these principles.
People feel more psychologically comfortable in a landscape
that has order and repetition. Organized landscapes with
predictable patterns (signs of human care) are easier to
read and tend to make people feel at ease. Psychological
comfort is also affected by the sense of pleasure that a
viewer perceives from a unified or harmonious landscape.
Users feel more physically comfortable, function better,
and feel more secure in a landscape with proportions
compatible to human scale.

f i g u r e 1 1 . Proportion in plants and hardscape

Proportions in voids
Human scale is also important for psychological comfort
in voids or open spaces. People feel more secure in smaller
open areas, such as patios and terraces. An important
concept of spatial comfort is enclosure. Most people feel at
ease with some sort of overhead condition (Figure 11) that
implies a ceiling. The enclosure does not have to be solid;
in fact, an implied enclosure, such as tree branches, serves
as a good psychological enclosure that still allows light and
views of the sky.

Proportion

Relative proportion is the size of an object in relation to

other objects. Absolute proportion is the scale or size of an
object. An important absolute scale in design is the human
scale (size of the human body) because the size of other
objects is considered relative to humans. Plant material,
garden structures, and ornaments should be considered
relative to human scale. Other important relative
proportions include the size of the house, yard, and the area
to be planted.

Order

Proportion in plants
Proportion can be found in plant material relative to people
(Figure 9), the surrounding plants, and the house. When all
three are in proportion, the composition feels balanced and
harmonious. A feeling of balance can also be achieved by
having equal proportions of open space and planted space.
Using markedly different plant sizes can help to achieve
dominance (emphasis) through contrast with a large plant.
Using plants that are similar in size can help to achieve
rhythm through repetition of size.

Symmetrical balance
Symmetrical balance is achieved when the same objects
(mirror images) are placed on either side of an axis. Figure
12 shows the same trees, plants, and structures on both
sides of the axis. This type of balance is used in formal
designs and is one of the oldest and most desired spatial
organization concepts. This is because the mind naturally
divides space by assuming a central axis and then seeks an
even distribution of objects or mass (visual weight). Many
historic gardens are organized using this concept.

Order generally refers to the spatial layout or organization

of the design and is most often achieved through balance.
Balance is the concept of equal visual attraction and weight,
usually around a real or imaginary central axis. Form,
color, size, and texture all affect balance. Balance can be
symmetrical, asymmetrical, or perspective. Order can also
be achieved by massing features or elements into distinct
groups and arranging them around a central point.

Perspective balance
Perspective balance is concerned with the balance of the
foreground, midground, and background. When looking
at a composition, the objects in front usually have greater
visual weight because they are closer to the viewer. This
can be balanced, if desired, by using larger objects, brighter
colors, or coarse texture in the background. In most cases,
either the foreground or background should be dominant.
Mass collection
Mass collection is the grouping of features based on
similarities and then arranging the groups around a central
space or feature. A good example is the organization of
plant material in masses around an open circular lawn area
or an open gravel seating area.

Repetition

f i g u r e 1 2 . Symmetrical balance around an axis

Repetition is created by the repeated use of elements or

features to create patterns or a sequence in the landscape.
Repeating line, form, color, and texture creates rhythm
in the landscape. Repetition must be used with caretoo
much repetition can create monotony, and too little can
create confusion. Simple repetition is the use of the same
object in a line or the grouping of a geometric form, such as
a square, in an organized pattern.

Asymmetrical balance
Asymmetrical balance is achieved by equal visual weight
of nonequivalent forms, color, or texture on either side
of an axis. This type of balance is informal and is usually
achieved by masses of plants that appear to be the same
in visual weight rather than total mass. Figure 13 shows
groupings of trees and structures that are approximately
equal in visual weight on either side of the axis. The mass
can be achieved by combinations of plants, structures,
and garden ornaments. To create balance, features with
large sizes, dense forms, bright colors, and coarse textures
appear heavier and should be used sparingly, while small
sizes, sparse forms, gray or subdued colors, and fine texture
appear lighter and should be used in greater amounts.

Repetition can be made more interesting by using

alternation, which is a minor change in the sequence on a
regular basisfor example, using a square form in a line
with a circular form inserted every fifth square. Inversion
is another type of alternation where selected elements are
changed so the characteristics are opposite the original
elements. An example might be a row of vase-shaped plants
and pyramidal plants in an ordered sequence.
Gradation, which is the gradual change in certain
characteristics of a feature, is another way to make
repetition more interesting. An example would be the use
of a square form that gradually becomes smaller or larger.
Repetition does not always create a pattern; sometimes it is
simply the repeated use of the same color, texture, or form
throughout the landscape. Figure 14 illustrates repetition of
a square form in an entry courtyard, lawn panels, a patio,
and a water feature.

f i g u r e 1 3 . Asymmetrical balance around an axis

an important feature. The ability of an object to capture

attention usually depends on contrast with adjacent objects.
A typical example for a garden would be a very brightly
colored ceramic pot among green foliage.
Dominant features that capture attention are called
focal points. Focal points are used to draw attention to a
particular location, move the eye around the space, or guide
circulation. Emphasis is created through contrast in size,
color, form, or texture.
Plants that draw attention are often called specimen plants.
These are plants with a unique form, size, or texture that
stand out from the surrounding plants. Ordinary plants
can also be used for emphasis by isolating the plant in a
container (Figure 15) or an open space. Purposefully placing
plants in this way draws attention to the plant. Specimen
plants are usually used to draw attention to entrances,
pathways, or statuary. Garden ornaments also work well
to attract attention because they are often dramatically
different from plant material. Form and color are usually
the characteristics that contrast the most with plants.
Sculptures, planters, and furniture have forms that are
easily recognizable and distinguishable from plants.

f i g u r e 1 4 . Repetition of square form

Repetition in plants and hardscape

Using the same plant repeatedly in a landscape is simple
repetition. A grass garden is a good example of subtle plant
repetition. Gradation can be achieved with a gradual change
in height or size (e.g., using small grasses in front, backed
by medium grasses, and then large grasses). A more obvious
gradation is plants that transition from fine to coarse
texture, or from light green to dark green.
Material can be used repeatedly throughout the yard for
unity, but interest can be created by slightly varying the
size, texture, or color of hardscape material. Repetition
and pattern can be made most obvious in the hardscape
because duplication is easiest with built materials that are
manufactured to exact dimensions.

Unity

Unity is achieved by linking elements and features to

create a consistent character in the composition. Unity
is sometimes referred to as harmonythe concept of
everything fitting together. By comparison, scattered
groupings of plants and unrelated garden ornaments are the
opposite of unity. Unity is achieved by using dominance,
interconnection, unity of three (described below), and
simplicity to arrange colors, textures, and form. Although
hardscapes and plants can be unified by the blending of
similar characteristics, some variety is also important to
create interest. The simplest way to create unity is through
the use of a design theme or a design style. Design themes
and styles have a well-defined set of features that have
maintained their popularity over time because they are
visually pleasing to many.

f i g u r e 1 5 . Emphasis by isolation of plant material in a container

Unity by interconnection
Interconnection, the concept of physical linkage (touching)
of various features, is present in all designs. Although all
features are linked to other features, the key is to make the
linkage seamless so that the features blend or fit together.
Hardscape is important to interconnection because it
typically serves to organize and link spaces in the garden.
Continuation of a line, such as a path, the edge of a built
object, or a defined edge of a plant bed, can create unity
through interconnection.

Unity by dominance
Dominance or emphasis is the property of a plant or
object that attracts and holds attention, making the object

Unity of three
Features that are grouped in threes, or in other groups of
odd numbers, such as in groups of five or seven, feel more
9

balanced to the eye and give a stronger sense of unity. Odd

numbers allow for staggered variations in height, such as
small, medium, and large, that provide more interest. Odd
numbers are often seen or perceived as a group and are not
as easily split or visually divided as even numbers.

to look for interesting and appealing plant groupings. Note

the type of microclimate for each group to determine if it
will work in your yard. Because these gardens are designed
for your area, you can use the exact combination of plant
material, as long as it fits the sun and shade requirements.
Ask about growing and maintenance requirements
to determine if the plants will fit your needs. At local
nurseries, you can gather and arrange several potted
plants to see how they look together. Although they are
small, you can still get a good idea about texture and color
composition.

Unity by simplicity
Simplicity is the concept of reducing or eliminating
nonessentials to avoid a chaotic look. This brings clarity and
purpose to the design. Many designers achieve simplicity
by thoughtfully removing features from a design while still
preserving its integrity.

Another way to identify your personal style is to look

through magazines and books for ideas. Study the images
and note the details. What do you like about the design?
Will it work in your space? You will not be able to duplicate
the exact design because your site will be different in
location, size, and shape, but there are often many features
you can adapt to your site. Appropriate hardscape materials
and plants for your region can be substituted for those in
the sample design by choosing materials and plants with
the same characteristics. Try to picture how the features
will look in your yard and where they might be placed.
Several different ideas may be knitted together to create
a final design. It is important to keep in mind that the
gardens and yards you see in magazines and books are
chosen because they are outstanding examples, and they
are typically gardens that are cared for by people with
extensive gardening knowledge. Keep in mind your (or
your contractors) maintenance abilities and knowledge and
adjust the design appropriately.

Applying the Principles and Elements

of Design
While it is useful to know the elements and principles
of design, it is sometimes difficult to understand how to
apply them to your ideas for your yard. Each site presents
challenges and opportunities for individual design and
expression and requires unique application of the elements
and principles. Studying how the elements and principles
have been applied in an existing design that appeals to you
is a good place to start. The best way to create a good design
is to borrow ideas from designs that you find attractive and
adapt them to your particular site conditions.
Personal Style and Sense of Place
To discover and identify your personal style, think
about other yards or landscapes you enjoy. Observe the
landscapes in your neighborhood and other neighborhoods
in your community. Study those that appeal to you and note
the features and types of plant material. Also try to identify
the elements of design, such as color, texture, and form, and
determine how line is used in the landscape. Study the view
and try to determine how balance and rhythm are created.
Also, look for dominance and try to figure out how unity
is produced. Studying landscapes in your neighborhood
and community is important because most people feel
more comfortable when they fit in with their neighbors.
There is often a strong social desire to feel like part of the
community and contribute to the neighborhood fabric. The
concept of fitting in is referred to as genus loci, or having
a sense of place. Sense of place also refers to the regional
contextthe surrounding landscapes, both natural and
planned, that have an influence on the design and plant
materials to be used.

Site Conditions
How do you know if a design you like will work in your
yard? First, compare the architectural style of the houses
and try to find similarities between your house and the
sample house. Study the hardscape materials in the sample
design. Do the same colors and materials work with your
house? If necessary, what substitutions could you use and
still retain the desired look? Imagine your house with the
same or similar plant materialsremember that the plants
can be arranged differently to fit the dimensions of your
yard. For more information on plant selection, see Right
Plant, Right Place: The Art and Science of Landscape Design
Plant Selection and Siting (http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/EP416).
Second, look at the shape and size of the footprint (outline)
of your house in relation to your lot size and shape. For this
you will need an official boundary survey that shows the
exact footprint, with dimensions, and its location within
the property boundaries. This will tell you if you have
room for the features you desire and where those features
can be located. Pay particular attention to the shape of the
spaces or voids between your house and the property lines.
These are the areas where your features will be located and
will help determine the potential form or shape for those

Other sources of inspiration include demonstration gardens

or landscapes, local botanical gardens, and displays at local
nurseries. Avoid the large national chain store nurseries,
as their plants are not often grown locally, and their plant
selection may not be as suitable to your area. They can be
good, however, for buying temporary annuals for small
areas. Visit demonstration gardens and botanical gardens
10

features. For example, a rectangular yard may look best

with rectangular shapes in the hardscape. The shape of the
house will also provide clues as to the type of shape you
should use in the yard. If the house has diagonal walls or
hexagon shapes, this could inspire a diagonal or hexagon
shape in the landscape. Designers will often draw lines on
the plan that extend from the house edges or corners to the
property lines. Figure 16 illustrates lines used to delineate
the shape of spaces and locate the patio and focal features.
These are called regulating lines because they help regulate
space and define forms that extend from the house or
between the house and the property lines.

seating area (patio or deck) is typically located adjacent

to the house for convenience and physical comfort. Other
features, such as dog runs and vegetable gardens, are often
located on the side of the house to hide them from view,
and play or recreation areas are often located in full view
of the kitchen or family rooms so that parents can watch
children at play.
Spatially dividing a yard into separate uses is often
referred to as creating outdoor rooms (Figure 17) and
is a fundamental concept of outdoor design. Logical
arrangement of the rooms creates a functional and
aesthetically pleasing landscape. Spaces can be delineated
through the use of different materials, such as the edge
of a stone patio against a lawn panel; through a change
in elevation (steps); through the use of a form, such as a
square lawn panel; through the use of a feature, such as a
low garden wall or small trees; or through the use of plants
to create implied walls and ceilings. The elements and
principles of design are particularly useful when creating
rooms because they help to define spaces, add interest,
and create a unified, functional, and aesthetically pleasing
landscape.

f i g u r e 1 6 . Regulating lines from house walls and doors

Third, thoroughly understand your site and how you want

to use the space. Begin with a site inventory and analysis.
Note all the conditions of the space and analyze how the
conditions might affect your design. Each condition can be
seen as an opportunitya positive condition that will help
achieve your designor a constrainta negative condition
that might impact your design, but could possibly be turned
into an opportunity. Examples of opportunities and/or
constraints include land forms, such as slopes and flat
areas, and natural features, such as trees and rocks, or built
features, such as swimming pools and fences. Depending on
the desired design, each could present an opportunity or a
constraint.

f i g u r e 1 7. Outdoor rooms for separate uses

Color and texture can also be used to differentiate spaces

by making each area visually unique or distinct. The
hierarchy of spaces or rooms can also be delineated through
the use of visual weight. Areas of high importance can
include features and elements that give them high visual
weight and attract attention. Scale and proportion are also
useful principles for spatial organization and hierarchy. A
space with a distinctly different size relative to the other
spaces tends to assume more importance because of the
contrast. Scale is also very important in determining the
type of features that can be used in the landscape; different
uses require different square footage to be functional. For
example, features such as swimming pools, dog runs, and

Locating Features and Defining Outdoor

Rooms
Once you have determined the architectural style, the shape
of the yard spaces, and the opportunities of your site, you
can begin to locate the features and give them form. Most
features will have a logical location based on the use or type
of feature and the site opportunities. The yard is typically
considered an extension of the house, and it makes sense
to locate the most heavily used features of the yard close
to backdoor entrance. For example, the outdoor dining/
11

Summary

vegetable gardens have a minimum required size, and a

patio has a minimum size depending on the number of
people expected to use the patio at one time.

The fundamental concept of landscape design is problem

solving through the use of horticultural science, artful
composition, and spatial organization to create attractive
and functional outdoor rooms for different uses. The
elements (visual qualities)line, form, texture, color, and
visual weight, and principles (guidelines) proportion,
order, repetition, and unity of design are used to create
spaces, connect them, and make them visually pleasing to
the eye.

Spaces can be connected through the use of lines, such

as pathways, or they can be visually connected through
the use of emphasis (focal points) that captures attention
and leads the eye, or through repetition of elements
that connects spaces through similar objects. Another
important concept of outdoor design is direction or
physical movement within a space. Movement or circulation
can be controlled through the use of different materials,
spatial organization, focal points, and intentional marking
of pathways. Using all of the elements and principles will
tie the entire landscape together in a unified, functional
manner.

A previous version of this publication by Dewayne L. Ingram has been permanently archived. Please visit http://www.uflib.
ufl.edu/ufdc/?b=IR00000113&v=00001 to view the archival copy.

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) is an Equal Opportunity Institution authorized to provide research, educational information and other
services only to individuals and institutions that function with non-discrimination with respect to race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation,
marital status, national origin, political opinions or affiliations. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida, IFAS, Florida
A. & M. University Cooperative Extension Program, and Boards of County Commissioners Cooperating. Millie Ferrer-Chancy, Interim Dean

12