“Her yard is incredible—there are many unique spots,” interior designer Christy Martin commented to Architectural Digest of her client’s Tucson garden. That client was none other than singer Linda Ronstadt. And yet, it’s difficult to imagine an area of any garden more appealing than one with such intimacy. Local firm Harlow Gardens created the space, which features a charmingly shady pergola that Ronstadt’s cat, Sally Mae, clearly enjoys. Ronstadt also puts its bounty to good use: “Linda loves fresh flowers, and she places them all over the house,” Martin reflected at the time.
How to decide on a landscape design concept?
With so many garden landscaping ideas out there, it can be difficult to land on a cohesive and fitting design for your own garden. Start by reminding yourself of the basic facts: What’s the climate like where you live? Is it consistent or inconsistent throughout the year? How big is your space? What style is your home, and do you want your garden to be in line with that aesthetic? For example, if you have an adobe stucco house in the South West with a sparkling backyard, covering the floorpan with hydrangeas might not be feasible or fitting (unlike, say, installing a large rock garden.) The most important question to ask though when making this decision? What style and type of garden you truly love best.
Should your front yard and back yard look different?
While no two areas of a landscaped garden can look identical, the question is really how much, if at all, your front and back yards should match each other. While a cohesive style is a good thing to cultivate, there’s no need to try to make them look too similar. After all, they have different purposes and functions: One, filled with curb appeal, is usually meant to welcome you and others, while the other can be your own private outdoor oasis, including for entertaining.
What outdoor furniture should you prioritize?
For starters, consider a round bistro table with two chairs in a matching, and weather-proof, finish. If you have more space, think about adding a sofa upholstered with performance fabric. Next up, it’s time to think about lighting, which can range from practical electric sconces to fireplaces and fire pits that can help cultivate activities. After that, throw pillows and a garden stool might just make for the perfect finishing touches.
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