One of the things we love about landscape design is that no two yards are the same. Just take a stroll through your own neighborhood and you will see an abundance of diversity and creativity. You will also notice that some yards, no matter how lush or minimalist, are more pleasing to the eye. Are they better maintained? Maybe, but more likely, they have various elements that are simply more interesting to look at.(more…)
Is it possible to have a beautiful lawn, lush landscape, a pest-free garden and be environmentally friendly? Yes! It’s not only possible, but it is relatively easy when you follow these simple “green landscaping” methods.(more…)
When it comes to landscape design, we have learned to expect the unexpected – especially here in Portland, where doing your own thing seems to be a cultural hallmark.In spite of the strong creative and independent Portland spirit (which we love), we have seen certain trends manifest in yards and landscapes across the city over the years and 2020 will be no different. Here are our top five trends we’re seeing as we head into the new year.(more…)
Long-time residents of the Pacific Northwest know that, in spite of our rainy reputation, we have some of the best weather in the country any time of year and outdoor living here just can’t be beat. (more…)
It’s September and while “back to school” gets all the attention, we all know summer is not really over. Those who have lived in the Pacific Northwest long enough know September often brings the best weather of the year! Days are still warm, but not too hot; nights are cool and crisp, but still pleasant; and our rainy season has not quite begun. It’s also not unusual for an extended summer to last weeks into October. For gardeners and landscapers especially, September is the last hurrah.(more…)
Portland landscapes are in full bloom this time of year, treating residents and visitors to an abundance of colorful and fragrant roses, fuchsia, and perennials. Landscapes need maintaining throughout summer’s high-growth season. If you’re planning out your midsummer gardening tasks, here’s a good list to get you started:(more…)
“Know the rules well, so you can break them effectively.” Did you know these wise words from the Dalai Lama apply to landscape design? Landscape design experts start with sound design principles as a foundation. They can then produce stunning designs knowing they may decide to break a few rules to accommodate their creative choices.(more…)
Humans throughout history have associated water with everything from peace, openness, wisdom, and depth, to balance, cleansing, healing, and salvation. There’s even scientific evidence to support the many benefits we get from being in or near water. If you’re looking to add a little Zen to your landscape, consider incorporating the element of water.Water features can be used as design focal points, to mask unwanted noise, to offer a soothing soundtrack, to reflect a more natural environment, to attract wildlife, and to create a sense of visual movement. Whatever the reason, here are some tips to help you design a water feature that blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape and transforms your backyard into a paradise.(more…)
Summer is when the Pacific Northwest really shines. The vibrant colors, the cool mornings and the warm afternoons beckon us to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Sure, there are lots of festivals and concerts to attend, nearby mountains and beaches to enjoy, and exotic places to visit. But some of our most cherished memories are created when we host a great party or old fashioned barbeque for friends and family in our own beautiful backyard. (more…)
It’s finally spring in the Pacific Northwest! As the warmer weather invites us outdoors, a gentle breeze bathes our senses in the sweet smells of fresh garden blooms. We gaze across our verdant landscape and see...a thinning, brown patch smack dab in the middle of our lawn?? (more…)
You will also notice that some yards, no matter how lush or minimalist, are more pleasing to the eye. Are they better maintained? Maybe, but more likely, they have various elements that are simply more interesting to look at.
(more…)
It’s not only possible, but it is relatively easy when you follow these simple “green landscaping” methods.
(more…)
When it comes to landscape design, we have learned to expect the unexpected – especially here in Portland, where doing your own thing seems to be a cultural hallmark.
In spite of the strong creative and independent Portland spirit (which we love), we have seen certain trends manifest in yards and landscapes across the city over the years and 2020 will be no different. Here are our top five trends we’re seeing as we head into the new year.
(more…)
Long-time residents of the Pacific Northwest know that, in spite of our rainy reputation, we have some of the best weather in the country any time of year and outdoor living here just can’t be beat.
(more…)
It’s September and while “back to school” gets all the attention, we all know summer is not really over. Those who have lived in the Pacific Northwest long enough know September often brings the best weather of the year! Days are still warm, but not too hot; nights are cool and crisp, but still pleasant; and our rainy season has not quite begun. It’s also not unusual for an extended summer to last weeks into October. For gardeners and landscapers especially, September is the last hurrah. (more…)
Portland landscapes are in full bloom this time of year, treating residents and visitors to an abundance of colorful and fragrant roses, fuchsia, and perennials. Landscapes need maintaining throughout summer’s high-growth season. If you’re planning out your midsummer gardening tasks, here’s a good list to get you started: (more…)
“Know the rules well, so you can break them effectively.” Did you know these wise words from the Dalai Lama apply to landscape design? Landscape design experts start with sound design principles as a foundation. They can then produce stunning designs knowing they may decide to break a few rules to accommodate their creative choices. (more…)
Humans throughout history have associated water with everything from peace, openness, wisdom, and depth, to balance, cleansing, healing, and salvation. There’s even scientific evidence to support the many benefits we get from being in or near water. If you’re looking to add a little Zen to your landscape, consider incorporating the element of water.
Water features can be used as design focal points, to mask unwanted noise, to offer a soothing soundtrack, to reflect a more natural environment, to attract wildlife, and to create a sense of visual movement. Whatever the reason, here are some tips to help you design a water feature that blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape and transforms your backyard into a paradise.
(more…)
Summer is when the Pacific Northwest really shines. The vibrant colors, the cool mornings and the warm afternoons beckon us to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Sure, there are lots of festivals and concerts to attend, nearby mountains and beaches to enjoy, and exotic places to visit. But some of our most cherished memories are created when we host a great party or old fashioned barbeque for friends and family in our own beautiful backyard. (more…)
It’s finally spring in the Pacific Northwest! As the warmer weather invites us outdoors, a gentle breeze bathes our senses in the sweet smells of fresh garden blooms. We gaze across our verdant landscape and see...a thinning, brown patch smack dab in the middle of our lawn?? (more…)
