Five Principles of Backyard Design

Principles of backyard  design can be as complicated or simplified as you want to make them. I personally like to start off with a small project, conquer that and take on another project. My backyard looks better working each project in stages without the entire yard being torn up and out of control.  I also see instant results that I can enjoy immediately.

As you plan your backyard design you can work with three basic design principles or really get into landscaping and choose up to twelve design ideas. The middle of the road design project could include five design ideas and this is where this you tube takes you.

The five principles of backyard design are:

Simplicity
Simplicity is the flow of bed lines and keeping the garden areas simple.

Rhythm and Line
The idea of rhythm and design is to have nice flow to your backyard garden areas. Keep the areas simple with smooth lines

Proportion
Pr0portion is the most difficult and challenging area in my opinion. You need to keep tall plants and trees in prop to people, buildings and trees. To often trees are bought and planted when they are small and cute and later when the tree in encroaching on the porch or electrical lines, you realize planning should have included how big the plant would grow later on.

Balance
Balance can be asymmetrical, symmetrical balanced or formal symmetrical. These stages of backyard garden design may take the most time in your planning and making decisions.

Focal Point
Focal point is something that brings your eye to one place and then leads your focus to other areas.  An example of this would be a pond, fountain or garden paths. A focal point ties all individual points together and brings harmony to the yard.

The end result of any backyard design is to make your backyard living area a backyard oasis where you can relax and escape from the rush of everyday life and enjoy quiet times and family activities.