In a world where staying in is the new going out, home is the place to be. Instead of getting stuck feeling cooped up, many homeowners are taking this era of social isolation to make home improvements. In this strange welcoming of a new year, Wollaston Development addresses the best ways to create outdoor spaces that bring us peace and help make our time at home more enjoyable.
The top landscaping trends for 2021 focus around one fad that will never go out of style: sustainability. As climate change escalates, sustainability has become one of the hottest topics from the individual level all the way up to the biggest industries, and will only continue to grow in popularity as we scramble to preserve our environment. From bringing us back to nature to taking us on vacation, Wollaston Development’s top 5 landscape design trends for 2021 were handpicked for long lasting stylishness and environmental benefits:
1. Secluded Relaxation Areas
Escape the stress of the world with a private place of peace. It’s like a clubhouse, but for adults. Wollaston Development has some ideas for sustainable additions that are sure to enhance the comfort and beauty of your secluded space while providing you with the extra peace of mind that you are giving back to the environment as you unwind:
Water Features: Eco Over Ornamental: Close proximity to water is proven to calm the mind. Incorporate the calming effects of H2O into your space sustainably by installing a natural garden pond. These small, self sustaining biomes give native plants and animals a home while providing calming effects, environmental benefits, and increasing property value.
Hardscaping Materials Matter: Whether you’re looking to build a wooden platform for yoga and meditation or to lay a stone pathway that integrates sleek lines and geometric patterns, hardscape can add functional and aesthetically pleasing detail to your landscape while preventing erosion and raising property value. Many traditional hardscaping materials are impermeable to water or are treated with toxic chemicals, both of which contribute to increased runoff that goes on to pollute natural bodies of water. Be eco-friendly by using permeable materials, which allow water to flow back into the ground with the added benefit of filtering out pollutants. Permeable pavers are a particularly popular option because water can flow through the cracks and joints between your chosen hardscaping material.
2. Smart Irrigation
The landscaping world is bringing smart technology outside with smart irrigation systems. Sensors are installed to measure the moisture levels to learn when and how much water is needed. Smart controllers allow homeowners to easily adjust watering times and levels using their phone. Save time and money with this modern, sustainable alternative.
3. Transitional Outdoor Living Spaces
It’s been proven that spending time outdoors improves both mental health and boosts the immune system, especially during a pandemic when we’re confined to our homes. Meld the comfort of the indoors with the healing benefits of the great outdoors to create a perfectly convenient getaway in your own backyard - while adding value to your property! Whether you choose to read a book, have a BBQ, or simply listen to the sounds of nature, there is no disputing the psychological and health benefits of being outdoors. A great way to create an oasis from the heat is to incorporate foliage that provides a cool shady spot with protection from the sun’s rays. While your first instinct for keeping out the cold may be to find the nearest space heater, Wollaston Development invites you to first consider a few sustainable alternatives. Firstly, create a wind shelter to stifle the cold breezes by positioning your space in a nook or corner and create a barrier with walls of plant-covered trellises or tall, native, shrubbery. Next, add lighting to actually trick your brain into thinking you’re warmer than you are. Hang some LED or solar powered lights in your outdoor space to make the winter feel warmer. Lastly, incorporate soft furnishings including cotton cushions, throws, and rugs to retain more body heat and make you and your guests feel cozier in even the coldest temperatures.
4. Edible Gardens
With food gardening being at its highest levels in over a decade, edible plants will be huge in 2021. Edible gardens blend beauty and function with fruits and vegetables that embellish your property just as effectively as an ornamental plant, with the added benefit of producing chemical free produce. Use your food waste as compost to provide plants with the rich nutrition they need to grow and thrive while also reducing waste. Harvest with a smile knowing that you helped reduce soil and water pollution and shrunk your carbon footprint.
5. Low Maintenance Gardens
Utilize native plants that are already accustomed to the soil and weather conditions of your area and therefore require less water. Planting your favorite native flowers, shrubs, or grasses, and sit back to enjoy the beauty of your garden while nature takes care of them. Opting for native plants also benefits local ecosystems by supporting the native flora and fauna all while increasing the resiliency of your local ecosystems through climate change.
