What is a modern landscape design?

Modern landscaping is a combination of elements, techniques, materials, and approaches. Not all will be present in every modern outdoor space, but a truly contemporary yard will utilize many. 

Check out my list below to get a better understanding of why we say that contemporary landscape design is more than just a style:

I have written about design challenges- like the mature landscape- here before. Cutting through the noise of an overgrown garden is hardly the only design challenge we face.

Today, it's the "Family Yard". What is that?

A family yard must meet the demands of every member of the family. Parents want to entertain and garden. Kids want to play (sometimes destructively!) It can be difficult to balance these very different demands. Can it be done?

Every landscape design has it's own challenges. I've talked about our general design philosophy, and offered design tips that apply to many landscapes. I think one type of landscape, in particular, can pose a real challenge: the established landscape.

You know you want a new landscape. Is a designer the place to start? If so, how do you choose the right one?

How to use boulders in your landscaping design? Portland landscape designer, Ben Bowen, shares his tips in this article originally on Landscaping Network.

A sustainable landscape is environmentally friendly. But it's more than that. It should be designed to improve with age. If you are unhappy with your garden in 5 years, and want to rip it out, that is not sustainable! 

Here are the key elements that Ross NW Watergardens' landscape designer (me) considers when planning a sustainable garden: 

See how Ross NW Watergardens took a sloping and tired landscape and created a beautiful front yard. Walls, screens, plantings and a rain garden have all taken shape in this Gresham landscape. Check out the before and after pics to see...

​Most of us are drawn to a deal. If three companies all promise to provide the same landscape service, why not just hire the cheapest?​ At times that might be the right decision, but not always.

​You live in Portland. Or Lake Oswego. Or Happy Valley (you get the point). When should you aerate your lawn?

Some companies push aeration in the winter or early spring. This is a great time to aerate- if you are a landscape company.

Most landscapers can keep their customers happy on a good day. But what happens when a project goes sideways?

There are a couple common ways of responding: