Garden landscapes that wow the neighbours

You know that you've got something right in your garden landscape when visitors walk in and say "Wow”, an obvious indication that they're impressed with what they see. So how do we go about getting this reaction?

Is it a matter of placing one particular element in the garden and landscape design to stand out like a beacon? This could be a vividly coloured wall, or beautiful pavers laid out in a spectacular and memorable design.

It could be a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen or outdoor area with all the mod cons. It could be a work of art such as a sculpture or a water feature, or perhaps a mosaic-inlaid piece of outdoor furniture like a table.

Subjective art in the landscape

One person's reaction will not be the same as another's, with some people considering that new twisted metal sculpture in the middle of your yard to be an edgy expression of abstract modernism, while others will think it looks like a pile of old coat hangers.

Still, art says much about your personality, and you're never going to be able to please everyone. So go with your instincts, but try to avoid anything too outlandish.

Landscape design longevity

Avoid anything that is trendy or "of the moment", as it will date quickly, so understated stylish garden water features are a safe bet, and make sure they use recycled water or people will be saying "Wow" for the wrong reasons!

Garden plants can also provide interest, and there are a number that stand out for their colour and shape. Colourful trees like jacarandas, climbers like bougainvilleas and jasmine, or architecturally shaped plants like yuccas and flaxes can have this effect.

Masses of cacti and garden succulents can also create a wow factor, as can one or two carnivorous plants. The key is to choose a plant that makes an impact while also fitting in with the rest of the garden. Ask your nursery or local horticulturist for a few ideas.

The professional opinion

Many landscape designers believe that a garden in which all the elements work together to create an overall effect has far more appeal than one with one or two elements deliberately designed to stand out.

That means integrating the hard-landscaping and soft-landscaping features with the style of the house, while also providing an opportunity to express the personality of its owner.

Finally, keep in mind that landscape design that impresses also adds to the resale value of a home. 

Talk with a landscape designer in your area and find out how you can transform your garden into a wondrous feast of art: