Creating an inspiring, personalized landscape from scratch is much easier said than done. However, with a little bit of creativity and exploration, you can uncover ideas for your new landscape design in unexpected places. To create a landscape that truly inspires you, consider these unexpected ways to gather inspiration.
Discover Inspirational Landscapes in Art Galleries and Museums
Admiring artistic works in person can help homeowners reimagine their property as a “canvas” for their personal tastes and self-expression. Experiencing the diverse range of colors, textures, and spatial arrangements in art galleries and museums can inspire homeowners to incorporate artistic elements into their outdoor design.
Abstract paintings may generate surprising ideas for bold color schemes. Mixed materials can prompt ideas for the textures you would like to incorporate into your pathways or fences. Sculptures can give you ideas about how to create unique focal points where you may turn your gaze. And, the juxtaposition of these various art forms can even encourage free associations, leading to new, surprising ideas for different combinations and compositions of plants and other materials.
Seeing an exhibit might lead to using a large, sculptural plant as a focal point or commissioning a colorful outdoor mural as a key feature. Seeing paintings play with light and shadow could inspire creative lighting concepts to line pathways or highlight specific plants, creating a space that captivates in both day and night.
Recall Favorite Travel Destinations with Inspirational Landscapes
One of our most constant inspirations comes from thinking back on our best vacation memories. Whether it’s the bustling cityscape of Tokyo, the serene beaches of Mexico, or a majestic mountain lodge among the Rockies, travel experiences offer a wealth of inspiration for outdoor designs.
Different cultures and garden styles can help homeowners consider diverse textures and colors for their plant palettes, as well as draw from various architectural styles and landscaping techniques that evoke their favorite destinations.
For instance, a trip to a tropical destination might inspire the inclusion of over-sized plants and vibrantly colored flowers. The tranquility of an English garden could lead to the incorporation of formal hedging and pea gravel pathways. By drawing from global influences, homeowners can transform their backyards into an instant getaway that evokes their sense of adventure right at home.
Seek Out Fashion's Colors and Textures for Inspirational Landscapes
The world of high fashion is known for pushing boundaries and setting trends within popular culture, making it an unexpected yet rich source of inspiration for backyard design. Patterns, textures, and color combinations showcased in magazines or social media transform into outdoor furniture, cushions, and even planter arrangements.
Homeowners might be especially inspired by a particular fashion aesthetic or era such as ‘70s boho or classic minimalism to create a cohesive theme for their space. Fabrics used in clothing, like crocheted fabrics or intricate lace, can inspire unique design elements in furniture, decorative elements, and even plant selection. Bringing a little runway flair to the landscape can make it a stylish extension of the home—and your personality.
Consider Ideas for Inspirational Landscapes through Architectural Styles
Exploring various styles of architecture in books, documentaries, local landmarks, and even their own neighborhood can generate insights into timeless design principles. Classic elements like arches, columns, and formal symmetry can be adapted to create a sophisticated and enduring landscape.
For example, the sense of balance found in classical architecture might inspire a formal garden layout, with structured hedges and carefully aligned pathways. Gothic architecture could influence the use of intricate wrought iron gates or trellises. By considering the built environment, homeowners can create a space with a harmonious blend of historical homage and modern living.
Identify Real-World Inspirational Landscapes in Parks and Botanical Gardens
Nature itself is a boundless source of inspiration. Parks and botanical gardens, both big and small, showcase diverse plant species and landscape compositions. Homeowners can observe how native plants interact with each other, learn about sustainable gardening practices, and gather ideas for a naturalistic yet well-manicured yard.
Visiting a Japanese garden might inspire the incorporation of a koi pond or a raked gravel area. State parks with native plants could encourage homeowners to embrace local flora, creating a beautiful landscape that celebrates and thrives in its natural environment. These outdoor spaces serve as living examples of what is possible, offering tangible inspiration for those looking to transform their own backyards.
Observe Inspirational Landscapes in Film and Television Production Design
Film and television production designers create highly specific and elaborate sets that can be a boon of inspiration for your home’s landscape design. Whether it's the lush countryside surroundings in a period drama or the space-inspired sleek aesthetics in a sci-fi film, these productions can spark ideas for your yard to transform into a visually captivating environment.
A romance set inside a cozy cottage might inspire the use of climbing white flowers and cozy seating areas. A futuristic thriller could lead to the incorporation of curved, minimalistic outdoor furniture. By translating the design elements seen on the screen, homeowners can bring a touch of cinematic magic to their own outdoor spaces.
Ultimately, we can gather design inspiration for home landscapes in the most unlikely places, whenever they evoke our sense of wonder and curiosity. By admiring artwork, recalling past trips, flipping through fashion magazines, studying historical architecture, visiting various parks, and examining the sets of their favorite film and television shows, homeowners can cultivate a unique and personal outdoor haven that reflects their creativity and individuality.
If you’d like some help gathering inspiration for your next Los Angeles outdoor project, book a consultation with us today. We love helping our clients incorporate landscape elements that help them come alive. Our goal is to ensure your landscape is not only a functional space, but also a true extension of their unique personality and sense of style.
About Us
Besanti Natives is a landscape design consulting firm in Los Angeles specializing in bespoke outdoor spaces inspired by the natural wonders of the Golden State. Our Certified California Native Plant Landscapers offer a refreshing, holistic approach to your landscape to help you cultivate more meaningful connections to nature, your loved ones, and yourself.
Our team is dedicated to preserving the unique character of each property while providing modern solutions to enhance functionality and beauty. To order any of the plants listed on this page, learn more about our services, or to schedule a consultation, visit our online booking page.
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