The 5 Basic Elements of Landscaping —and Why They Matter When Hiring a Pro
- Barrow Landscapes
- May 30
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 13
Designing a beautiful, functional outdoor space is about more than just planting flowers and installing pavers. Great landscaping follows design principles that blend nature and structure to create a space that feels intentional and well-balanced. At the heart of every successful design are five basic elements of landscaping.
Understanding these elements can help you make better decisions when hiring a landscaping company and planning your new outdoor space. Let’s break them down—and show why they’re worth thinking about before the first plant goes in the ground.
Line: Creating Movement and Flow
Lines guide the eye and influence how we move through a space. In landscaping, lines are created by walkways, garden beds, fences, hedges, and even the way plants are arranged. They can be:
· Straight lines, for a formal, modern look
· Curved lines, for a more natural, relaxed feel
· Diagonal lines, to add energy and draw attention
Why it matters: A landscaper who understands line can create a space that flows smoothly and feels inviting—rather than disjointed or cluttered. If you're unsure how you want your space to function, ask your landscaper how they plan to use line in the design.
Form: The Shape of Structures and Plants
Form refers to the shapes of landscape features—whether they’re round, angular, tall, or sprawling. Trees, shrubs, flower beds, patios, pergolas, and even water features all contribute to the overall form of the landscape.
Why it matters: When planning your outdoor space, a balance of forms creates visual interest and structure. A knowledgeable landscaper will consider how the forms of your chosen features and plants work together to define the space and reflect your personal style.
Color: Adding Emotion and Energy
Color is one of the most noticeable and impactful elements in landscaping. From bright flowers and deep green foliage to hardscape tones and outdoor furniture, color sets the mood.
· Warm colors (reds, oranges, yellows) create energy and draw attention
· Cool colors (blues, greens, purples) promote calm and relaxation
· Neutral tones (browns, grays, whites) ground the design
Why it matters: A landscaping professional will help you choose a color palette that complements your home, reflects the seasons, and aligns with your desired ambiance.
Texture: Creating Depth and Contrast
Texture refers to the surface quality of elements in your landscape—both soft (plants) and hard (stone, wood, metal). Mixing textures adds depth, interest, and contrast.
For example, you might combine the fine texture of ornamental grasses with the bold leaves of hostas, or rough stone pavers with smooth concrete walls.
Why it matters: Texture keeps your space from feeling flat or one-dimensional. A good landscaper will balance different textures for a more dynamic and layered look.
Scale: Balancing Size and Proportion
Scale is about the relationship between the size of the landscape elements and the space they occupy. It ensures that everything—from plants to patios—feels proportional and intentional.
Why it matters: Oversized trees in a small backyard or tiny shrubs next to a large structure can feel awkward. An experienced landscaper understands how to scale elements, so the space feels cohesive and well thought out.
Why These Elements Should Guide Your Landscaping Plan
When you're planning your landscaping project or interviewing landscaping companies, asking how they incorporate these five design elements can help you gauge their expertise. A reputable landscaper won’t just install features—they’ll design a space where every element supports the others.
These design principles bring harmony, functionality, and beauty to your yard. So, whether you’re building an outdoor retreat, upgrading curb appeal, or installing new garden beds, keep these elements in mind. They’re the foundation of great landscape design.
Looking for a landscaping partner who understands the art and science of design? Choose Barrow Landscapes. We that focus on more than just installation—we build thoughtful, balanced spaces rooted in the five elements of landscaping and more!
Contact Barrow Landscapes today for a free consultation to get your landscaping space started. Let the Pros guide you and bring your blank canvas to a beautiful masterpiece.
Barrow Landscapes offers Hardscapes including Paver Walkways, Retaining Walls, Paver Patios to Softscapes including landscape plantings, lawn install and repair, and privacy plantings. Barrow Landscapes also offers landscape lighting and 2D and 3D landscape designs so their clients’ can visualize their dream landscapes with unparalleled clarity and confidence, making informed decisions bringing outdoor visions to life.
Call Barrow Landscapes at 309-370.6299 or visit BarrowLandscapes.com. Give us a call today or contact us to get your landscape visions started.
Comments