The Ultimate Guide to Landscape Redesign

For this West Texas landscape, Dake Land Design leveled out the backyard to create a welcoming place for the homeowner’s grandkids to play, and then we redesigned the plants and landscape to create a beautiful new outdoor space for the whole family to enjoy.

Have you ever looked around your outdoor space and wanted a change - something more inspiring and welcoming? Maybe more plant life or something a little less unkempt, a more modern look, or simply a landscape that requires less maintenance? Perhaps you’ve been inspired by the many businesses and homes in Austin, Texas with incredible landscapes but aren't quite sure how to transform your own outdoor space. 

A well-designed landscape not only enhances the aesthetics of your property but also adds value and functionality to your outdoor space. Redesigning your landscape requires careful consideration of utility, maintenance, and materials. This is part of the process land designer Christian Dake, of Dake Land Design, utilizes when starting a new land design. In this blog post we'll explore how to strike the perfect balance between these three elements to create a stunning yet practical outdoor environment.

Utility: How can form meet function in my landscape design?

Before diving into the landscape design process, identify the primary purposes of your outdoor space. Are you looking for a serene retreat, a play area for children, or a space to entertain guests? How do you enjoy the outdoors? Understanding your needs will guide the overall design. 

Once you decide how you want to utilize your environment, divide your landscape into functional zones based on your identified needs. Common zones include entertainment areas, sections for relaxation, and utility spaces. This zoning approach allows for a more organized and purposeful design. If you have trouble zoning, land designer Christian Dake has had years of experience in this and can help. We'll chat with you to discover your landscape needs and preferences then design the space to your liking.

Lastly, embrace technology to enhance utility. Smart irrigation systems, outdoor lighting, and climate control solutions, such as fans to beat the West Austin heat, can make maintenance more efficient while providing a modern touch to your landscape. Decide if suggestions such as these are something you want to add to your outdoor space.

Maintenance: How can I balance beauty and effort with my yard?

What kind of maintenance are you interested in doing? Do you want a minimal design with low maintenance or are you looking for a lush and dynamic landscape that might require more upkeep?  If low maintenance is your preference, opt for native plants or those adapted to your region's climate to eliminate unwanted maintenance. Native plants typically require less water, fertilizers, and maintenance, which contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly landscape. Land designer Christian Dake has three go-to native plants. The dwarf palmetto, the fragrant mist flower and the loquat are stunning and thrive in Austin

Landscape designer Christian Dake installed floating concrete pavers for barbecue and back patio hangouts.

Another thing to consider is hardscape integration. This is the balance of greenery with hardscape elements such as paths, patios, and decks. These features not only reduce the need for constant plant maintenance but also provide functional spaces that require minimal care.

An important maintenance element to consider is mulch. Choose organic mulches like wood chips or bark to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. This simple addition significantly reduces the time spent on weeding and watering. In addition to mulching, equip yourself with high-quality gardening tools. Well-maintained tools not only make the landscaping process more enjoyable but also contribute to efficient maintenance. Regular tool maintenance is an often-overlooked aspect of landscape care.

Dake Land Design used limestone to create the steps, adding texture to this West Austin landscape.

Materials: What kind of textures to include in your landscape design?

Lastly, Dake Land Design considers how texture and materials are incorporated into the holistic vision of your outdoor space when redesigning your landscape. Is native rock appealing to you? Maybe steel elements catch your eye? Is your style more modern or traditional?  

Paths and patios are an essential component for lots of landscapes. When selecting materials for paths and patios, prioritize durability. Natural native stone, concrete pavers, and composite decking are excellent choices that withstand the elements and require minimal maintenance. Check out this project Dake Land Design did in West Austin incorporating native stone.

Dake Land Design use of steel in a landscape. Steel is modern and functional.

Another material option is steel. With just one glance around Austin you’ll find it’s hard to miss steel details in landscaping. It’s modern and functional. In Dake Land Design's project on Randolph Ridge, we created new terracing, using limestone and steel planters, that created an upper play area of the whole family.

When incorporating wooden elements, choose sustainably sourced materials. Hardwoods like teak or ipe are naturally resistant to decay and insects. If properly treated and maintained, these materials can last for decades.  

Another type of material to consider is recycled and upcycled products. Embrace the trend of using recycled or upcycled materials in your landscape design. From repurposed furniture to recycled glass mulch, these choices not only add character to your space but also contribute to sustainability.

How to design the perfect blend of landscape materials?

There is an enormous amount of design value to be found in diversity. Strive for a cohesive design by balancing various elements such as color, texture, size, and lines. Unity in diversity can be achieved through repetition of certain plants or materials, creating a harmonious and visually appealing landscape. Using metal planters filled with native or adaptive plants next to native rock pathways can create an artwork of your landscape. This is something Dake Land Design thrives at. Land designer, Christian Dake, finds great joy in combining all types of materials to create a beautiful and enjoyable outdoor space.

Another thing to consider is planning your landscape to thrive in all seasons. Choose a mix of evergreen and deciduous plants to ensure year-round interest. Additionally, consider seasonal flowering plants to add bursts of color throughout the year, such as the fragrant mist flower.  It’s also important to anticipate the growth of plants and trees. Provide adequate space for their expansion, ensuring that your landscape remains well-proportioned and avoids the need for frequent reconfigurations.

Dake Land Design Transformed a tight backyard with an eroding slope into a modern dining and outdoor area.

The Transformation

Redesigning your landscape is a rewarding endeavor that goes beyond mere aesthetics. By carefully considering utility, maintenance, and materials, you can create an outdoor space that not only looks stunning but also serves your practical needs. Whether you're aiming for a low-maintenance outdoor space or a vibrant entertainment area, this thought process provides the roadmap to achieve a perfect blend of beauty and functionality in your redesigned landscape. 

Are you ready to realize your dreams of landscape transformation? Contact us to begin your conversation with Dake Land Design.