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Luxury is often linked to excess and a focus on opulence rather than environmental concerns, which can make it challenging for people planning a new landscape project. They desire a luxurious landscape like the ones seen on social media but are concerned about its potential impact on the environment.

At the Landmark Group, we know landscapes can be sustainable without compromising on quality or aesthetics — that’s what we’ve been doing for years! In this post, we’ll share how you can create a luxurious outdoor space that reflects your values while having a positive impact on the environment. Read on!

Key elements in a luxury landscape

Creating a landscape that looks and feels luxurious is not contingent on the features you choose. A pool, for example, might feel luxurious to some and more like a chore to others. However, there are some key elements that can make even simple landscapes exude a sense of beauty, sophistication and elegance — the essence of true luxury.

• Use high-quality materials such as natural stone, fine woods and high-end finishes that showcase elegance and durability. Quality finishes have a luxurious look and feel that cheaper materials can’t achieve.

• Invest in professional design to create a space that is visually stunning and harmonious. A designer will pay attention to every detail, from the layout to the selection of plants and special features.

• Choose a company known for its exceptional craftsmanship to ensure every aspect of the landscape, from custom-built structures to intricate hardscaping, is executed with precision and finesse.

• Luxury landscapes often include standout features that make a striking impact. These can be grand water features, sculptures, specimen plants or other elements that serve as a focal point and create a sense of grandeur.

• Luxurious outdoor living combines comfort, aesthetics and functionality. This could include luxurious seating areas, outdoor kitchens, fire features and other amenities that allow you to relax  and entertain in style.

• Luxury landscapes often prioritize privacy. The strategic placement of trees, hedges, and other screening elements create intimate spaces that are shielded from the neighbours.

• Thoughtfully designed landscape lighting enhances the ambiance of a luxury landscape, extending its usability into the evening hours.

Key elements in sustainable landscaping 

There is a growing understanding that luxury and sustainability can coexist with many homeowners looking to create a sustainable landscape that is both environmentally friendly and visually appealing. To achieve this, it's important to include certain elements that help conserve resources, support biodiversity and use eco-friendly practices.

• Incorporate native or adapted plants into your garden design. Native plants are suited to the environment and need less water and fewer chemicals (if any) to thrive. They also provide food and shelter for wildlife and support pollinators like birds, bees and butterflies.

• Prioritize water conservation by pairing your irrigation system with a smart controller. Smart irrigation systems use technology to control your water usage and prevent runoffs — so your lawn and gardens get all the water they need, but not a drop more.

• Keep your lawn healthy to discourage weeds. A healthy lawn requires less fertilizer and is more resistant to drought and disease.

• Consider using permeable materials when constructing patios, drives and walkways. Permeable pavers help prevent water from pooling on the surface and allow it to soak into the ground, reducing runoff.

• Make your property energy-efficient by using LED lighting and incorporating shade trees to reduce cooling needs.

Embrace sustainable luxury

As you can see, sustainable landscapes can be luxurious… and vice versa. The feeling of luxury lies within the details and the vision you have for your property.

At Landmark, we design landscapes that include all the elements that are important to you — lush greenery, comfortable seating areas, and high-end amenities such as swimming pools, hot tubs, water features, fire pits, outdoor kitchens and more — while being good stewards of the environment.

For more information regarding sustainable and luxurious landscape design, simply give us a call or reach out to us to schedule a consultation. Or, if you’d like some inspiration, check out our featured projects.