Ornate landscaping and weaving in a blue color palette are two big trends for yards in the new year, according to the National Association of Landscape Professionals. The association recently released its list of the top landscaping trends in the new year.
“Foundational landscape elements remain on homeowners’ wish lists, but modern updates and technology are now a top priority,” says NALP CEO Britt Wood. “With a wave of design and technical innovations, our members report that ornate hardscaping, contemporary features, lush gardens, and smart irrigation are all trending and will influence landscape designs across the country in 2020. This year’s trends showcase how homeowners of all generations desire a striking, custom, and well-maintained outdoor space that benefits their community and the environment.”
Here are the five trends that the NALP predicts will be hot this year.
Ornate, geometric hardscaping. Intricate patterns for hardscaping—hard materials or structures built into a landscape—are trending. These include waves, chevrons, lattices, and basket weaves. “From walkways and patios to retaining walls and fire features, homeowners are looking to integrate popular home decor patterns into their hardscape designs,” the NALP notes.
Contemporary and transitional designs. Contemporary, simple designs, which might be reflected by a contemporary sculpture or modern fire or water feature, are popular. “Multi-season functionality is essential as more homeowners are selecting elements that can survive a range of temperatures, such as native plants, heat lamps, and protective structures,” the NALP says.
Shades of blue. Rich tones of blue are dominating paint forecasters’ choices for 2020 color of the year, and these cool colors are also heading outside. Homeowners are bringing in more blues, using sculptures or water features. In gardens, plants like blue fortune, delphinium, hydrangea, globe thistle, or grape hyacinth are adding touches of blue, too.
Gardens. Homeowners continue to add gardens into their landscapes. But they're eyeing gardens that cater to their personal needs, from creating edible gardens for farm-to-table dining to planting gardens that produce favorite fruits, vegetables, or herbs. In smaller spaces, owners are adding container gardens, vertical gardens, or “interiorscaping” to create an outdoor garden oasis, the NALP says.
High-tech water solutions. One-click, remote irrigation systems are gaining popularity. These systems deliver just the right amount of water to a landscape and can save owners money in the long run. These irrigation systems can be controlled from anywhere with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and smartphone apps.
