Don't Be Afraid of Space!

Spring is in the air, and we know how tempting it is to rush out and purchase all the vibrant new plants you can find. However, at Nurney Landscape & Design, we often see a common mistake: the fear of empty space. 

Remember that space is an integral part of a good landscape design. It’s not just the absence of plants; it’s a powerful tool that creates balance, order, and a sense of calm in your outdoor environment. Resist the urge to plant it all and overcrowd your outdoor space! 

Think of space as a visual breath. It helps to create focal points, drawing the eye to a beautiful specimen tree, a striking water feature, or even the architecture of your home. Without planned open areas, your landscape can feel cluttered and chaotic, overwhelming the individual beauty of your plants. 

Furthermore, space allows for comfortable movement throughout your property. Pathways, whether paved or a simple stretch of lawn, invite exploration and connect different areas. It can also help define distinct zones for recreation, dining, or quiet relaxation. 

From a practical standpoint, giving your plants room to grow is essential for their long-term health and beauty. Adequate spacing, both above and below the ground, allows for proper air circulation, sunlight penetration, and root development. Trying to cram too many plants into a small area will inevitably lead to overcrowding, requiring constant (and often unnatural) pruning to keep them contained, or worse, resulting in a tangled, shapeless mass that obscures their intended form. Remember, the right plant in the right spot thrives. 

We often see this issue, particularly with homes with three-car garages. The resulting large expanse along the front of the house can feel like a blank canvas, and the immediate instinct is to fill it entirely with planting beds. However, a well-designed landscape might incorporate swathes of beautiful, usable lawn as part of the overall composition. 

Open space can act as a guide, leading your eye towards a specific feature or creating a sense of journey through your garden. Not every inch needs to be densely planted to be beautiful and engaging. Thoughtful design is crucial before you ever put a shovel in the ground. 

The Nurney Landscape & Design team can help you create clean, neat, and relaxed spaces. We understand how to strategically use space to enhance the beauty of your plants, improve functionality, and create an outdoor environment you’ll truly love. Don’t be afraid of space

-- let us show you how it can elevate your landscape design. (215) 794-8599.