I can’t stress enough the importance of getting a landscape design done, especially when it comes to pools in Melbourne. There are so many factors in regards to pool design which can impact the garden as well as delay the overall project, provide undue stress (on the plants as well as the homeowner) and blow out the time and cost of the construction if not correctly captured. The following points are just some of the requirements that landscape designers keep in mind and are aware of when designing a landscape or garden project;

Functional Design.

Making sure the proposed pool is located where it links in with the dwelling and doesn’t overpower or take up too much space. In Melbourne, we only swim 5 months of the year, so it’s important we can utilize the backyard all year round. It’s easy to get caught up in the initial aesthetic, but it’s equally important (if not more so) with the design of any landscape or garden to keep in mind how space will be enjoyed. At the end of the day, we’re designing integral spaces withing homes, and homes are to be lived in, not just admired. A great designer always considers this throughout all landscaping design or garden design projects.

Safety Design.

Most designers are well aware of pool regulations and can design to avoid any potential hazards, risks or setbacks. Again, if these requirements aren’t strictly understood and adhered to during the design phase, it can mean the difference between sipping on a cocktail by your new pool and something far more sinister. Keep in mind, these regulations can vary geographically, so it’s always best to work with a local team; a Melbourne based design team, for Melbourne based landscape and garden design projects.

Project & Construction Timing.

Having a landscape plan in place is a great way to schedule trades and make the project run smoother. Without a plan in place, things can be missed e.g blocking access by paving, before excavation. These things can become very costly, very quickly. One of the key services that any landscape designer worth their salt in the industry will provide a client, is a step by step plan for the delivery of the landscape design on time and within budget (not to mention a planting schedule to ensure a happy and healthy garden).

Planting

Selecting the right combination of plants can bring homes and gardens to life. It can be the catalyst to transform a space from good to great, however, some aspects of the landscape can be overshadowed by the plant selection process and forgotten. Great landscape designs take everything into account, from what to plant, to where to plant and when. For example, it’s important to make sure when planting that you allow for the mature width and distance. Planting too close can put plants under stress and prevent them from flourishing which may lead to additional, unnecessary costs. Also, keep in mind the smaller the plant, the quicker they adapt to your conditions and aren’t put under as much stress as well established. You will also find the smaller the variety, the faster they tend to grow. Typically when we design a landscape, we’ll look to include a combination of both young and well-established plants to balance out the immediate needs of the aesthetics of the project, with the long terms needs of happy, healthy gardens. After all, there’s nothing like enjoying warm weather in an inviting outdoor space that’s full of lush greenery.

At the end of the day, you spend enough time crafting the perfect interior that reflects your design aesthetic, but what about your home’s exterior? It’s just as worthy of your attention. At times, getting a design created by a Melbourne based expert may appear to be expensive at the start, but it makes the job run smoothly and puts both the clients and contractors all on the same page. This can avoid costly mistakes and disappointing projects. Lastly, an award-winning design can pay dividends in the long run in regards to the value of your home.

Happy landscaping!