Lay of the Landscape: Traditional
If strong lines, manicured beds and a sense of graciousness speak to you, a traditional landscape may be on your horizon
Houzz Contributor. I'm a California-based writer and editor. While most of my projects are garden-based, you might also find be writing about home projects and classical music. Away from the computer, I'm found in the garden (naturally), on my bike, or ice-skating outdoors (yes, that is possible in California). I'm also willing to taste-test anything that's chocolate.
Houzz Contributor. I'm a California-based writer and editor. While most... More »
Traditional landscaping can get a bad rap in design circles. It's not daring; it doesn't push the envelope; it's something you can see everywhere. However, traditional gardens that are done well have a lot going for them. They're instantly appealing, they work well with any number of house styles and they evoke a sense of graciousness and a connection to the past.
Although traditional can take many turns, from English country estate to French styling and even to a hint of the classic cottage garden, one thing that ties traditional landscapes together is greenery. Lawns, or something very similar, anchor the space. Trees play a major role. Garden beds are filled with shrubs and leafy green plants. Sure, there are bursts of color, but overall, green is the dominant theme.
The hardscapes are equally classic. There's a strong sense of geometry underlying the overall space and of everything having its place.
And you know what? It works. People are drawn to traditional spaces. They're peaceful and inviting. They allow you to relax and feel at home while admiring the landscaping. And isn't that what you really want from a space like this?
Although traditional can take many turns, from English country estate to French styling and even to a hint of the classic cottage garden, one thing that ties traditional landscapes together is greenery. Lawns, or something very similar, anchor the space. Trees play a major role. Garden beds are filled with shrubs and leafy green plants. Sure, there are bursts of color, but overall, green is the dominant theme.
The hardscapes are equally classic. There's a strong sense of geometry underlying the overall space and of everything having its place.
And you know what? It works. People are drawn to traditional spaces. They're peaceful and inviting. They allow you to relax and feel at home while admiring the landscaping. And isn't that what you really want from a space like this?
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| A clean and simple hardscape, plus a traditional lawn and a harmonious planting bed, allows the lines of the house itself to stand out. The lamppost fits the style of the house and serves as an accent piece. Providing a patch of light to mark the start of the path at night isn't a bad idea, either. |
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| Filling a garden border with trees, perennials and annuals is a time-honored way of masking the edges of a yard and making it seem larger. |
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| A mass planting of a single plant, a throwback to the days of large estates, is highly effective, especially in a traditional setting. Here the color of the annuals plays off the color of the house yet doesn't compete with the architectural lines. |
| These landscape plantings, from garden bed to lawn to overhead vine, fit this shingle-style home perfectly. But think about it: This same landscape would work well with a range of home styles. |
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| The simple geometric lines of these shrubs and trees complement the architecture of this home rather than compete with it. A palette in shades of green is always soothing and restful. |
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| This house's style is colonial, so a straightforward traditional landscape might not set it off to advantage. On the other hand, a cottage garden, especially in this rather large space, might be too much. The solution: Combine the two. The lawn, the formal paving to the side of the house and the garden beds filled with shrubs reflect a traditional approach, while the irregular pavers, the picket fence and the blowsy plants behind it add a cottage touch. |
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by Milieu Design
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| A garden bed that sits between the sidewalk and the house softens the formal lines of a traditional landscape. Because the more free-form plantings are confined to a smaller area, they don't overwhelm the rest of the space. |
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by Richard Kramer
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| A paved brick sitting area that provides the perfect transition between a house and yard is a traditional look that will work in any landscape. Adding cutout planting beds softens the edge between the patio and the house. |
| A large lawn may be a traditional approach to a landscape space, but breaking it into tiered levels edged with brick gives the same sense of expansiveness while adding individuality. |
| A large lawn may not be the most water-wise choice, but there's no doubt that it's inviting. This yard reminds me of the type in old movies, filled with families and friends. |
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| Clean lines, a place to sit, a patch of green and symmetrical garden beds. The look may be simple, but it's always going to draw you in. And as this yard proves, you don't need a lot of space to achieve it. |
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| Stone and wicker make a great combination that has withstood the test of time. Whether you're at the beach, nestled in the heartland or up in the mountains, this look will serve you well. Just add green edging and flowering plants, and you're good to go. |
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| Creating a space that's calm, restful and inviting is what a traditional landscape is all about, and those are just the notes this inviting patio hits. |
| If you have kids, sometimes less is more. A spot for a swing set and a playhouse, plus plenty of lawn space for games, may not win you prizes for your daring design, but this classic approach to a backyard can serve your family well for years. More: Natural Garden Style Find Your Perfect Patio Design 4 Steps to the Perfect Garden Garden Edging: Clean Lines for Your Landscape |
Comments
Bright Bold and Beautiful Another home to add to the list: Traditional Home tour in Lynchburg, Va. Gardens are filled with boxwoods, azaleas and beautiful windows boxes full of geraniums. http://goo.gl/ri7qr 
15 months ago · Like
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CJ Sebert Great ideabook. How do you guys always know what I am looking for? We just lost two huge pines in our front and are looking for ideas to redo the (previously shade) garden bed in addition to adding sod. 
15 months ago · Like
klllrd2 Please do landscaping ideas for an 80's brick ranch. There must be ways to update their tired look with great plants.
15 months ago · Like
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patscats2 Thanks, those are breathtaking and so inspirational. I'm trying to get my garden growing in the front of the new house. This is our second summer so it's time to get this project underway. Starting from scratch with dirt that is very heavy and horrible, is quite the challenge. I know it will take a couple of seasons to get it like I want it, but am anxious to get things planted so the front of my house doesn't look like barren wasteland.
15 months ago · Like
Fine Art & Portraits by Laurel All of the examples, except for the last, are simply Edenic, to this desert dweller.
15 months ago · Like
Modern Country Lady Some more pictures to add to your idea book.This was a small front garden which was created from scratch after a huge conifer was cut down to give the house more space and light.Here are two views, one to show the area in full summer, and one in Spring, which shows the structure.The last picture is in winter . 
15 months ago · Like
Monarch Stone International Traditional = timeless, as in it will never go out of style! And using natural stone clearly defines traditional material... 
4 months ago · Like
Ideabook updated on April 5, 2012.
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