Interesting that I am high in the Smoky Mountains, far from my tropical Florida home, as I write this post about outdoor spaces. Being here reinforces the fact that design principles

apply every time, to every space, everywhere. Here, palms give way to big hardwoods, stucco becomes brick and stone and fountains yield to firepits. But, if you look past the obvious material differences, the structure, function, rhythms, balance and organization are all there.

In part one of this series, my friend Interior Designer Tammy Dalton got us thinking about the beautiful and functional ways we can enjoy our spaces. If you missed it, check it out – Tamara Dalton Design Studios. So now that you are inspired, lets tackle the first step of the process – site analysis.

If you want a great outdoor space, start by throwing away the notion of decorating. Decorating is what you do to a Christmas tree, it is temporary and serves only one purpose and that is to be pretty. Replace that verb with design. The best way to start a design is to ask questions; in school we learned this as site analysis. Go ahead, grab your notepad and lets analyze your site.

• FOOTPRINT  How will your awesome new backyard plan impact the environment? Sorry, I don’t want to be Debbie Downer, but think about it…will your new addition have huge water or fertilizer needs? Will there be any impact to wildlife? Do you have to fell a big native oak tree to make way for that patio? Tread softly and you will be super proud of your design.
• SOILS Are they well drained or boggy, what plants will they support?
• MICROCLIMATE  Is wind a factor? Sun? Freeze? Salt? Cold? Breeze? Rain? Will plants thrive? Will you be comfortable?
• LIFESTYLE Entertain? Kids? Pets? Grilling? Swimming? Hot tub? Sunbathing? Outdoor dining? Play area? Herb or vegetable gardening? All of these activities have particular spacial and environmental needs, you want to make the most of your space, but be sure your goals are compatible with your site.
• SENSE OF PLACE Where are you? Coastal? Downtown? Inland? It can be fun to create an oasis that contrasts with the surroundings, but you still need to connect with your location. Subtle things like materials, shapes or colors will ground your design with local flavor and give it a comfortable sense of place.
• HEALTH Allergies, accessibility, safety. I know this is a blah one, but come on, it’s important!

Okay, that should put you on the right track for a successful project, Tammy will take part three and then I will see you again in part four where we will dig deeper into specific suggestions for space planning, outdoor kitchens, pots, fountains, firepits and plant selections.

Remember, a blog is a conversation, so let’s chat, let me know what you think.

If I may be of any help in planning your next landscape project, please call me –               772-419-0024 or email – landarchmike@gmail.com You can also visit my website at www.MikeFlaughLA.com where you will find more information on design and materials.

Continue scrolling down to see more about sustainable gardening and other landscape topics explored on previous posts.