Landscaping Ideas for Large Lots

Hillside Design

• Many large lots are set against hillsides; terracing can help you get the most from this setting. A licensed contractor who specializes in proper drainage and retaining walls can build a series of terraces into this sloping lot. The yard can be terraced in three sections with the bottom terrace being a patio with a café table and two chairs; place a larger table on the middle terrace to be used for outdoor entertaining. Slate steps can connect the patio to the middle terrace and then continue on to the third space at the top of the yard. Designate this space for above ground planting beds with flowers that overlook the view below. Between terraces, add plants that are low maintenance such as sage, salvia or manzanita.

Flat Yard Design

• For large flat yards, landscape designers often break up the flat area by adding dimension and height. A designer may create a winding path throughout made from decomposed granite (DG), and fill the space between the path with dirt built up into berms. The berms create dimension and add interest; this space is designated as an area to plant wild grasses, giving the yard a very natural feel. Decorative grasses such as blue fescue and fountain grass are commonly used because they reseed easily, require little water and add a touch of blue and soft green. One area that is surrounded by the walkway should be used as a conversation or dining area. This area can include a rustic wooden table and seating to create an intimate space. For full sun, a shade covering is designed so that it can be removed easily if necessary.

Modern Style

• Modern elements are used to create an oasis in a large yard by incorporating elements of both East and West. A deck built close to the ground in simple narrow planks from teak or Brazilian ipe is a clean modern approach. Horsetail fern or bamboo in large pots can be grown along the edge of the deck for a contemporary Asian look. On another side of the yard, transform a large space into a patio from either slate or decomposed granite, and designate this space as an outdoor dining spot complete with a long narrow wooden table. This area should be well lit with either stringed lights or outdoor installed lighting for evening dining. In between this patio and the wooden deck, a rectangular swath of lawn is added for an angular and geometric shape for a large yard. This yard can be completed with a water feature such as a fountain or pond, which helps tone down street noise and create a sense of peace and quiet.