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Living in the Pacific Northwest offers the perfect backdrop for stunning landscapes, thanks to its unique climate and natural beauty. Whether you’re nestled in the bustling areas of Seattle or the serene spots in Washington State, creating a vibrant environment outside your home is a way to fall in love with your space all over again. We’re here to help with new home landscaping ideas.
“The Pacific Northwest is known for its diverse weather patterns, from mild, rainy coastlines to colder, drier mountain regions. This variability means your landscaping needs to be both resilient and adaptable,” said Olivia Horine, Interior Designer. “The good news? You can create an outdoor space that complements your lifestyle without demanding constant upkeep.”
In this blog post, we’ll share a few ideas for new home landscaping, including low-maintenance options and ways to make a statement.
Low-Maintenance New Home Landscaping Ideas
Daydreaming about your new space? Thinking about planning the landscaping at your new house? Here are some key ideas to help you keep landscaping low maintenance.
1. Rain is Your Friend
Washington’s drizzly days can actually be a blessing for your garden. Embrace the rain by creating a rain garden that thrives on stormwater runoff. Once established, a rain garden requires minimal watering, helping you manage flooding and erosion issues on your property.
Choose plants that can handle both wet winters and dry summers, ensuring your garden remains lush year-round. Think about incorporating native species that are well-adapted to the local climate for an even easier maintenance routine.
| Tip: Not sure what plants to choose for a rain garden? Make sure you choose options that can handle both the wet winters and the dry summers. What you choose depends on the zones that you have—from Zone 1 (an area with standing water) to Zone 3 (areas with drier soil). For native plants that you can use in all three zones, we recommend: Iris tenax (Oregon or Tough-Leaf Iris): This iris stands 12 inches to 18 inches tall and spreads 12 inches. Blooming from May to June, it flaunts showy blue flowers. This is ideal for wet and dry conditions. Make sure to avoid the invasive yellow-flag iris. Symphyotrichum subspicatum (Douglas Aster): This aster grows 6 inches to 36 inches tall and spreads 36 inches. It blooms from June to September with blue to purple flowers and yellow centers. Douglas Aster prefers full sun but tolerates some shade, complementing plants like checker-mallow and bulrushes. |
2. Create Space for Shade and Sun
In the Pacific Northwest, sunlight varies greatly in different parts of your yard. When looking at landscaping for your new house, maximize your space by designing both shade gardens and full sun areas.
For shaded spots, opt for plants like hostas, ferns, and conifers that thrive with less sunlight. These plants create a cozy, tranquil retreat perfect for lounging. If deer love to visit your yard, be sure to use deer-resistant options or plant them in places the deer can’t reach.
For sunnier areas, choose drought-tolerant plants such as coneflowers, yarrow, and ornamental grasses. These selections not only handle the sun but also reduce your watering needs. The result is a visually diverse and low-maintenance garden that suits all parts of your yard. Lavender is drought-tolerant and lovely, attracting pollinators like hummingbirds and bees too!
3. Include Water Features
Adding a water feature like a pond, fountain, or waterfall can elevate your landscape design while keeping maintenance low. The gentle sounds of flowing water create a relaxing ambiance, perfect for unwinding.
Water features can also attract birds and other wildlife, adding life to your garden. Whether you choose a simple bird bath or a more elaborate stream, incorporating water elements enhances the visual appeal and tranquility of your outdoor space. Plus, many water features require minimal upkeep. Enjoy their benefits without the hassle.
New Construction Landscaping Ideas That Make a Statement
Looking to make more of a statement? Here are a few things you could consider.
1. Embrace the Wild
Turn your yard into a natural haven by letting it “go wild” in a controlled manner. Forget the manicured lawns and embrace the native plants that thrive in Washington’s unique climate and soil. This approach reduces weekly maintenance to seasonal care and conserves water by using plants that naturally fit the environment.
The result? A beautiful, low-maintenance landscape that reflects the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Source: Friends of Ballona Wetlands
2. Surprise With Sculptures
Incorporate sculptures to inject personality into your garden—it’s something so simple that it often gets overlooked in landscaping for new construction!
Sculptures can transform empty walls or garden beds into captivating focal points. Place a decorative metal screen for a bold statement or tuck a small sculpture along a garden path for a delightful surprise. These artistic elements add character and make your outdoor space uniquely yours.
3. Install Garden Gates
Garden gates not only mark the entrance to your garden but also inspire curiosity. Choose a transparent gate for a glimpse into your lush garden or an opaque one for a sense of privacy.
Front yard gates should complement the rest of your home, while backyard gates open up opportunities for creativity. A thoughtfully chosen garden gate invites exploration and adds a touch of charm to your landscape.
Some styles we love are:
- Courtyard garden gate: For ultimate privacy and elegance, an oversized wooden garden gate is perfect for your driveway or courtyard.
- Dramatic arch: Create a show-stopping entrance with a tall, curved arbor paired with gates that form a circular opening when closed.
- Minimalist gate: Opt for a sleek, metal garden gate with simple lines to turn your side shade garden into a private sanctuary.
- Privacy gate: Make a grand statement with an oversized double garden gate.
4. Create a Focal Point
Select a striking feature to serve as the centerpiece of your front yard. Whether it’s a piece of artwork or unique flora, place it prominently to draw immediate attention.
Surround it with pathways or stepping stones that lead the eye directly to it, creating a guided visual journey. Balance the focal point with smaller plants or decorations on either side to harmonize your landscape.
Tip: Looking for some ideas on how to plan out a focal area in your landscaping plans? We recommend:
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The Exterior of Your Home is Just the Beginning
At JayMarc Homes, we believe that the exterior of your home is just the beginning of its beauty. Our expert team, with over 750 years of combined home building experience, is here to help you create a stunning home that delights at every turn.
Interested in learning more about building your own home with JayMarc homes? Contact us today to get started.
