Landscape Design – How to Avoid a Kitsch Landscape

You can create a stylish landscape without turning it into a design disaster. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, “kitsch” is defined as “sentimentality or vulgar, often pretentious bad taste, especially in the arts.” The application of this term to the landscape can be quite different. It could involve unnecessary specific garden elements in the landscape or an overly dominant variety of plant species. Whatever the reason, here are some tips to keep your garden looking unique without being kitsch.

Simplify the landscape. Consider how you would like the space to be used. Will there be spaces for entertaining guests, family gatherings, play areas for children and pets, etc.? You may also want to xeriscape gardens or maintain specific plant varieties native to your region. Too much of a good thing can turn your landscape into a nightmare. Keep garden spaces simple and allow room for plants to mature. Gnomes and glass objects can be “fun” for some gardens, but they distract from a garden’s original purpose. Redefining the space will further clarify which plants will grow best in a thriving landscape.

Choose quality materials. Select hardtop or floor materials that maintain a sleek design and contrast that complements your planting choices. Consider changing your patio furniture with new materials. Use eco-friendly materials like eco-friendly decking or wood materials like ipe wood that last a while in harsh environmental conditions. Clutter up your landscape with unused materials or objects that you may have picked up along the way, but are really of no use in your yard.

Plants with quality and contrast. Choose plants that provide seasonal interest. They must also have a unique edge, such as color, texture, or shape. Make sure there is enough variety without choosing clashing plants. Maintain plantings that complement each other, throughout the landscape.

Turning on. This is an item that many homeowners tend to neglect. Proper lighting can add some ambiance, while naturally enhancing the shape and structure of your landscape and plant material. Lighting around walkways, specimen trees, water sources, and tree trunks can be considered.

Placement of materials. Try something different besides the foundation plants that surround your house or property line. You can still maintain privacy with fencing, building materials, and by choosing plant species with the right height, texture, shape, and color for your yard. Consulting your local garden design or nursery expert can also answer your questions about new materials, as well as detailed design and installation options.