Mindfulness – focusing on the present – is somewhat of a buzzword that has enjoyed longevity and cohabitates well with landscaping and gardening generally. How?
Well with technology making our lives simpler yet also increasing our stress levels, homeowners continue to develop their home sanctuary, including their backyard, into a space where relaxation and mindfulness can take centre stage.
“With space permitting, homeowners are seeking a separate area within the backyard that may include a yoga or meditation area – somewhere to unwind and be mindful and appreciative,” says Mark Sorby, CEO of Landscape Queensland.
“Being out in the backyard is restorative to all of us and having a properly landscaped area not only adds to the ongoing liveability of a home but also the value.”
A professional design makes all the difference and achieving the right balance between hardscapes and softscapes will ensure you can have downtime rather than working in the backyard every weekend. “Using a Landscape Queensland member means you’re working with a professional who is properly licenced and insured,” Mr Sorby said.
Adding colour to any design is important and Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2018 is ultra violet. Purple connotes higher wisdom and is associated with originality. Introducing a touch of purple to a landscape makeover is easy with so many species of plants displaying lush purple-toned foliage or blooms. Agapanthus, crepe myrtle, daisy, lavender, cradle of Moses, Purple Fusion and Purple Pixie are just a few varieties to consider. Strappy plants such as Dianella or Liriope offer a different textural element.
“The Pantone Colour of the Year has come to mean so much more than ‘what’s trending’ in the world of design; it’s truly a reflection of what’s needed in our world today,” notes Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Colour Institute.
As far as trends go, firepits continue to feature heavily on homeowner’s design briefs. Gazing into the flames offers an opportunity for mindfulness dating back centuries, though the modern incarnation is more likely to include a design that offers a variety of uses for the firepit, such as a BBQ surface or meat smoker, and can even be transformed into an ice bucket during the warmer months.
“Hardwearing stone and natural products are also still very popular and add interest to break up larger areas of concrete or fencing. The return to growing your own veggies provides another mindfulness dimension to any backyard oasis and introduces the concept to children,” Mr Sorby explains.
In small areas, using all available space is crucial. Landscape Queensland members can design and construct bespoke landscaping elements or install readymade solutions. Lighting should also be taken into consideration with any design. There are many and varied solutions available now that can be incorporated into any ‘smart’ design that aids homeowners in using apps to control lighting, pools, irrigation and music. Why not add a purple-hued ambience with lighting?
Mr Sorby suggests, “Careful consideration of the sun moving across the garden throughout the year is also important; ensuring you achieve year-round enjoyment of your oasis will maximise mindfulness opportunities.”
Contact a landscape Queensland member for more advice on the latest design trends and products for your next project: www.landscapequeensland.com.au/find-a-member
