Building your own outdoor paradise can be a daunting, yet rewarding project. Before you invest your time and money, it's a good idea to consider some components of a successful landscape project.

"Building a poorly designed landscape can cost just as much if not more than building a well designed thought through design in the short or long term," says landscape design expert Chris Slaughter. “We, at Scenic Blue Design, fully appreciate and respect that when you consider investing in your garden, this might likely be the first time you will have done this.” So it is imperative to create the outdoor living space or garden of your dreams. The cost savings in getting the design right is proven time and time again.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

AFTER

I would like to just give you some simple tips to consider as I wish everybody to avoid five of the common landscape design mistakes:

· Choosing the wrong size design to fit the space - How to avoid it:

There are many options when it comes to deciding what size say your entertaining space (patio) should be. Should you design one large patio or several smaller ones? Your goal should be to create an outside living area that, in effect, is an extension of your home. This means you should first determine what uses your space will serve. Most landscape designers will agree that several smaller spaces are more aesthetically appealing. Consider this: When you're hosting a party, isn't it true that most people congregate in small groups? Your patio should reflect how it will be used. Creating inviting areas where a few people can gather to chat or dine is a great way to approach the design of your patio. Also consider the size of your patio's dimensions working with your concept patio furniture arrangements. If you're crunched for space, consider different furniture options, or creatively adjust your surfaces to add space behind the areas where chairs will be placed.

· Creating a disconnect between indoors and outdoors - How to avoid it:

Consistent use of colours, materials and even plants between your patio and adjacent indoor space can make your patio seem like an extension of your home. Design consistency makes each place seem bigger and more useful when your patio doors are open. After all you’re outdoor space is just a form of room.

· Inconsistent outdoor design - How to avoid it:

Piecemeal design can occur when you take on one project without thinking about it’s long-term impact on your outdoor space as a whole. For this reason, it can be helpful to sit down and develop a flexible master plan for your outdoor space, which will allow you to complete your ultimate design goals in phases without compromising the look and feel of your yard. Appointing a professional landscape designer will provide you with help in ensuring this.

· Plants that don't fit your space - How to avoid it:

Choosing plants that will fit in a designated space when they reach maturity can help ensure your yard and patio doesn’t become overgrown. Plants that need to be trimmed to fit their spaces often don't look as beautiful as a plant that's allowed to flower and flourish. Choosing plants that survive well in your climate will also save you time and effort.

· Misunderstanding the importance of good design

It's exciting to tackle an outdoor project, but when you forget to think about the big picture, the project can sometimes turn out to be less than you had hoped. If you don't have the time to learn the basics of landscape design yourself, I cannot stress the benefits in seeking the help of a professional landscape designer. They should be able to show you a portfolio of projects he or she has worked on so you can get an idea of whether their work is compatible with your desires. In addition, they should demonstrate verbally their understanding of constructability techniques in ensuring the design is compliant to standards where necessary.

This being said, if you are considering a new garden space and not sure how best to tackle it, we would be very happy to discuss your wishes to find the most positive way forward for you.

You can contact us on 0405 663222 or email chris@scenicbluedesign.com.au

After all, here at Scenic Blue Design it is our wish to help you harness your imagination.

Chris Slaughter

www.scenicBLUEdesign.com.au