Landscape Design is so much more then plants and flowers

When you hear the word "landscape" you probably think of someone who mows your yard or maintains your flowerbeds.

But Landscape Design is so much more.  

A Landscape Designer can help design a space that
fits your space, lifestyle and budget

A landscape designer, sometimes called a landscape architect, creates attractive, functional outdoor spaces for homeowners, businesses, schools and other organizations.   It is an independent profession and a design and art tradition, practiced by landscape designers, combining nature and culture.

Landscape design typically involves artistic composition and artisanship, horticultural finesse and expertise, and emphasis on detailed site involvement from conceptual stages through to final construction.

While landscape design sometimes involves plants and gardens, they also focus on hardscape which include rock pathways, retaining walls, outdoor living spaces, swimming pools, lighting, irrigation and more.  

So the next time you are flipping through a magazine or you google outdoor living spaces, contact a professional Landscape Design Firm that can help you create an area that fits your space, lifestyle and budget.  

For more information, contact Studio W.  Specializing in commercial and high-end residential Landscape Design.  Info@thestudiow.com or 405.285.5610

Looking Ahead: Landscape Architecture and Design

Being outside has ben linked to better moods and better outlooks on life.  According to the Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, they found that getting outside and moving for as little as five minutes at a time improved both mood and self-esteem.

Today's landscape is lush with native plants
and hardscape features to fit your space

Being outside has ben linked to better moods and better outlooks on life.  According to the Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, they found that getting outside and moving for as little as five minutes at a time improved both mood and self-esteem.

So what does the future of landscape look like?  In this series, today we will look at residential landscape.

Residential Landscapes:
Across the country people use their backyard as a place to relax and get away from the stress of their busy life.  Whether that be work, running the kids to sporting events or activities, having a space to "get-away" has become the trend. 

With the ever changing world of technology, LED lighting, wireless audio, wi-fi access and the many water features to choose from, people have more choices now then ever before.  And depending on the area they live, outdoors is where they seem to spend their

But what's on the horizon?  As we see the world becoming more dependent on electronics and technologies to do it for them, i.e. robotic vacuums, your landscape won't be left out.  

As the population works more, they crave a low-maintenance lifestyle.  Where we once spent hours outside in the garden, got dirty, and as we sometimes call it "labor of love" - we don't want to give up our gardens and beautiful landscaped areas, but we may see more technology doing it for us.  

What's in the future of landscape architecture and design?  Maybe self driving lawnmowers and other outdoor lawn equipment.  Low maintenance is the keyword - keep it simple.  People will still want their beautiful yard, entertainment areas and pools with all the bells and whistles.  But studies show today's generation doesn't want to "do it themselves" they want to hire a professional landscape firm to do it for them.  And they don't want to spare any expense.

Swimming pools are becoming more elaborate with rock waterfalls and LED lighting.  Stone walking pathways lead to a complete outdoor kitchen and entertainment area - and don't forget the water features or beautiful outdoor fireplaces where friends and family spend hours.

Whether you want an outdoor living space with all native plants, homemade raised garden and all the simplicity of the past, or you want new technology with an elaborate outdoor space with a putting green and futuristic features, a professional landscape design firm can help you plan and build your space.

The professionals at Studio W work with high-end residential clients daily to help create a backyard paradise they can enjoy for years to come.

Contact Studio W at info@thestudiow.com or (405) 285-5610

Landscape Design: Hardscape Ideas

Hardscape refers to the heavier elements in landscape design, such as stones, rocks, outdoor kitchens, water features, walkways and swimming pools.

A brick pergola with outdoor kitchen
is a great addition to your outdoor living space

Once you are ready to create an outdoor living area, it is important to plan carefully to make sure you consider the space.  Hardscape is solid and unchanging and should last for years to come.  It can be the focal point of your area, but must be planned carefully.

It is important to hire an experienced Landscape Designer.   They will help you find the right balance between hardscape and softscape for a cohesive design that will be functional and beautiful.  

Before you hire a professional Landscape Designer, it might be helpful to have an idea what you are wanting.  How the area fits your needs and what your budget will be.  Then a Landscape Designer can sit down with you and help with the planning process.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, contact:  

The Studio W 

info@thestudiow.com

www.thestudiow.com

405.285.5610

Irrigation systems and why it's important to your landscape

Irrigation is the method in which a controlled amount of water is supplied to plants at regular intervals to help maintain landscapes.

Proper irrigation is important to maintain the
life of your landscape

There are four methods of irrigation:

• Surface
• Sprinkler 
• Drip/trickle
• Subsurface 

Landscaping doesn't end with planting trees, shrubs and flowers.  Your landscape must be maintained and a proper irrigation system will put water right where you need it without wasting water.  

So before investing in your landscape, talk to a professional about an irrigation system or proper watering to help maintain your investment.

How and when to water:
Some people don't realize they are under-watering.  They think by applying light daily watering that it will be sufficient.  It is actually harmful to water lightly each day.  Frequent light applications wet the soil to a depth of less than 1 inch. Most plant roots go much deeper. Light sprinkling only settles the dust and does little to alleviate drought stress of plants growing in hot, dry soil. Instead of light daily waterings, give plants a weekly soaking. When watering, allow the soil to become wet to a depth of 5 to 6 inches.

This type of watering allows moisture to penetrate into the soil area where roots can readily absorb it. A soil watered deeply retains moisture for several days, while one wet only an inch or so is dry within a day.

Then there are those who water often and heavy and they drown their plants. Symptoms of too much water are the same as for too little. Leaves turn brown at the tips and edges, then brown all over and drop from the plant. These symptoms should be the same, since they result from insufficient water in the plant tissue.

Too much water in a soil causes oxygen deficiency, resulting in damage to the root system. Plant roots need oxygen to live. When a soil remains soggy little oxygen is present in the soil. When this condition exists roots die and no longer absorb water. Then leaves begin to show signs of insufficient water. Often gardeners think these signs signal lack of water, so they add more. This further aggravates the situation and the plant usually dies quickly.

By thoroughly watering the soil at each watering, and then allow plants to extract most of the available water from the soil before watering again. 

For more information on Landscape Design and Irrigation, contact:  Studio W, info@thestudiow.com or 405.285.5610

source:  conserveh2o.org, aggie-horticultural.

Landscape Design for Community Parks and Common Areas

Landscape can do more then increase property value,  a beautiful landscaped area can attract new homeowners and give communities a space they can enjoy.

As a developer or Homeowners Association, investing in landscape, a common area, or a community swimming pool can attract future buyers and extend the life of your investment.

In order to get the most out of your potential space, it is best to hire a professional landscape design firm who can help in the design phase and who is educated in proper landscape for the environment, future maintenance, and how to get the most out of the space.

This is especially important when designing a neighborhood entrance.  A landscape designer can help bring curb-appeal to the entrance of a neighborhood.  A knowledgeable landscape designer will use plants that are native to the area which are more durable.  Knowing what plants work best for the terrain and environment can save the HOA money in future maintenance.

A beautiful, well designed landscape and community common area will add value to the area, can increase sales for the developer, and will give the community a place to gather and enjoy for years to come.  In a competitive real estate market, landscaping could be the difference in selling a home and increasing the neighborhoods value.

For more information on commercial landscape design, contact the Studio W at info@thestudiow.com or 405-285-5610.

Friday Focus on Landscape Design

Each Friday Studio W will post new and relevant information regarding Landscape Design and Architecture.  We hope you will find this useful and share with family and friends.  Please feel free to reach out to us at info@thestudiow.com or 405.285.5610.

How much value does landscaping add to the value of your home or commercial real estate?

Investing in your property, can add value to
to your home

Residential:

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) recommends that homeowners invest 10 percent of the home’s value in landscaping. Landscape architecture goes beyond plantings, or softscaping, to include structural features like lighting, fences, garden paths, fire pits, swimming pools, and ponds. Outdoor rooms, terraces, and decks are also high-yield structural or hardscaping investments. A landscape architect can work with the client to generate a detailed plan. 

Landscape design can do more then just add value to your home, just three trees in the right location can save up to $250 a year in heating and cooling costs, says the source for energy-saving stats: the U.S. Department of Energy.

Commercial:

Oklahoma Farm Bureau Plaza Design
Designed by Studio W

Commercial real estate can be a lucrative investment.  But in order to get the most out of our investment, it is vital to enhance and maintain the property to attract tenants or customers.  This will protect your long-term investment of your property.

By having well maintained landscape and mature well-groomed trees, this can improve and protect your commercial property for years to come.  

Commercial property owners can also gain respect and admiration from their community by offering water features or unique stonework or landscape designs.  Adding these features to your commercial property will not only increase its property value, it can help make your property a focal point in the community and a place families want to gather.

Studies show commercial office space with a high quality landscape design have up to 7% higher rental rates.  

Investing in your home or commercial real estate will add value, increase community involvement and yield a return on your investment for years to come.

For more information on commercial or high-end residential landscape design, contact:  Studio W at info@thestudiow.com or 405.285.5610.

Landscape Design: Hardscape or Softscape?

Are you planning a landscape project?  Do you know the difference between hardscape and softscape?

Adding hardscape and softscape elements to your project
will help add balance and harmony to your area.

Whether you are planning a residential or commercial landscape project, it is good to know what your project will include.

Hardscape is normally what landscape designers start with.  It refers to heavier elements such as patios, stones, swimming pools and can even include sprinkler systems.   

Once the hardscape or border of the project is complete, it is time to add the softscape such as trees, soil, plants and flowers.  Some elements of the softscape will be permanent like evergreens.  While others are seasonal flowers that are ever changing and add color to the project.  

No project is complete without a little of both.  That's why hiring a professional landscape design firm is important.  They can help you design your project and add balance, functionality and an elegant focal point to the area.

Even though softscape features may be more affordable, they also require more maintenance.  On the other hand, hardscape is more expensive, but it is permanent.  A professional design team will help you determine just the right amount of both to fit your need and living style.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment with one of the Studio W landscape designers, contact us at info@thestudiow.com or 405.285.5610.

Historic Oklahoma: Robbers Cave State Park

As a landscape design firm, we take pride in showing off historic places Oklahoma has to offer.  Each month in 2017 we will highlight a few places that are on the map. We hope you will follow us on this journey!

This month we would like to highlight 

Robbers Cave State Park

Hiking Trailhead at Robbers Cave State Park

Robbers Cave State Park is a state park in Latimer County, Oklahoma. It is located 5 miles north of Wilburton, Oklahoma, on State Highway 2.  

Originally named Latimer State Park, it received its current name in 1936.   The area surrounding the present-day park has been a hunting ground for hundreds of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the earliest people were related to the builders of the Spiro Mounds. By the 1600s, the Osage and Caddo tribes dominated the area. French hunters and explorers also visited, leaving their mark by naming some of the prominent geographic features, which are still used.

This park is a favorite of rappellers, equestrians, hikers and outdoor lovers. The park and adjoining wildlife management area covers more than 8,000 acres (3,200 ha) and includes three lakes. It offers visitors acres of discovery and enjoyment including trout fishing in season, boating, hunting, mountain biking, trails for hikers and horses, sandstone cliffs for climbing and rappelling, and fall foliage viewing. In addition, Robbers Cave is historically notable as a former hideout for infamous outlaws Belle Starr and Jesse James.

The park encompasses three lakes: Lake Carlton, Lake Wayne Wallace and Coon Creek Lake. These were created by dams built on Fourche Maline Creek, a tributary of Poteau River. The combined surface area of the three lakes is 189 acres.

source:  travelok.com

Sunbeam Family Services Annual Shine A Light Gala

At Studio W, we feel being a great company includes giving back to the community we serve.

Studio W is excited to be a sponsor of the Sunbeam Family Services Shine A Light Gala!

On April 13, 2017  Sunbeam Family Services will host their annual Shine A Light Gala at the Oklahoma City Embassy Suites downtown Medical Center.  All funds raised will directly support Sunbeam’s programs that help children, families and seniors. The gala is planned entirely by a volunteer committee with OKC Thunder’s Russell Westbrook serving as Honorary Event Chair. 

Sunbeam Family Services seeks to meet the growing needs of Central Oklahoma’s most vulnerable citizens, providing help, hope and the opportunity to succeed to people of all ages. We offer real solutions, aiming to strengthen individuals, families, and communities through a continuum of programs: early childhood, foster care, counseling and senior services. We believe that if we provide high-quality services in these areas, we build stronger, brighter futures for Oklahomans.

Together we will celebrate the accomplishments of the past and the vision for the future of Sunbeam Family Services while shining a light on our Early Childhood Services program. 

Commercial Landscape and Design - Studio W

Commercial Landscape Design is more then just pretty plants and flowers.

The Oklahoma Farm Bureau Project incorporated soil
from all 77 Oklahoma Counties. as well as native plants

There are many benefits to a well designed commercial landscape space.  But it first starts with choosing the right company to design your space.

Look for a company who communicates with you and can take your ideas and create a space that is not only functional, but it will add to the value of your property.  You also want to be sure they can create a space that is not only attractive, but pleasant and inviting for your clients and employees.  They should be proactive and transparent in everything they do.

A well designed area can actually attract potential customers and employees.  It says a lot about your company - like curb-appeal for a home.  It's the difference between a bad first impression by allowing your company to be run down, or a great first impression by maintaining a nicely landscaped area that is pleasing and welcoming.

A well landscaped design can also be eco-friendly and promote productivity for your employees.  By creating an area that employees can enjoy on breaks or during lunch keeps your employees nearby and lets them know you care about the environment they work in.

At night, the Farm Bureau pillars, created by Studio W are
spotlighted by warm LED up lights.

You can use your landscaping to reflect your values in the community where you live.  Whether that is native plants, or soil from the counties you serve, as seen in the Oklahoma Farm Bureau project pictured.  Your customers will know you care about the environment and the community you serve.  

For more information on Landscape Design, contact:  The Studio W at info@thestudiow.com or 405.285.5610

Historic Oklahoma: Oklahoma State Parks

As a landscape design firm, we take pride in showing off historic places Oklahoma has to offer.  Each month in 2017 we will highlight a few places that are on the map. We hope you will follow us on this journey!

This month we would like to highlight 

Oklahoma State Parks - Part I

Beavers Bend State Park

The Mountain Fork River in Beavers Bend State Park offers incredible scenery like 
this area where the water cascades over the rocky river bottom.  ~TravelOk.com

Explore Oklahoma's gorgeous scenery and inspirational places. Admire a beautiful waterfall, trek along a scenic byway overlooking forested hills or hike among ancient mountains.

This 3,482-acre park offers 47 cabins plus 393 campsites and over 50 tent sites spread over eight camping areas.  Escape into the serenity of nature and follow Mountain Fork River as it flows from the base of Broken Bow Lake through the park below.  This area provides visitors with spectacular views, as well as excellent canoeing and fishing opportunities.  

Enjoy hiking, biking, boating, fishing, water skiing, nature center activities, river float trips, canoeing, horseback riding and much more.  Trout streams are stocked year-round and the park features two catch-and-release trophy areas.  

This is one of Oklahoma's 33 state parks!  

Beavers Bend State Park is located at:

4350 S Hwy 259A

Broken Bow, OK  74728

Phone: 580-494-6300

Phone: 580-494-6556

source:  Travelok.com

Studio W Completes Farm Bureau Plaza Project

Plaza Project Represents 77 Counties and the Native Landscape of Oklahoma

At night, the Farm Bureau pillars, created by Studio W are
spotlighted by warm LED up lights.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (PRWEB) MARCH 02, 2017

Edmond based Studio W recently completed the Farm Bureau Plaza, a design concept that has been three years in the making and represents all 77 Oklahoma counties and its citizens. A lot are members of this “grass roots organization” statewide.

Stepping out of the building and entering the plaza, you see the dome of the capital that serves as a terminus for the sightline down the main sidewalk. 

There is an elevation change in the four planting beds which represent 4 quadrants of Oklahoma per the geography elevation map. The elevation changes start in NW Oklahoma at Black Mesa, the highest point in Oklahoma at 4,975’ and ends at the Little River located by the Arkansas border at 289’ above sea level.

“Studio W designed four different corten-steel pillars that are organized by location into the four different planting beds, each designed at different heights. This symbolizes the elevation change in Oklahoma,” said Zach Murphy, Landscape Designer at Studio W.

In the center of the plaza is the 19’ x 9.5’ Oklahoma Farm Bureau Logo. This is surrounded by pavers bought and engraved by employees, families, organizations and companies that are associated with and trusted by the Farm Bureau. These pavers were sold as a donation campaign that will continue for years to come.

The planting design for the plaza represents the native landscape of Oklahoma, a state which contains twelve “level three ecosystems” making it mile for mile one of the most ecologically diverse states in the country. The plant material selected was organized to coincide with the design intent of the hardscape thus tying into the quadrant concept.

“The completion of our newly renovated plaza couldn’t be timelier. This year marks our 75th anniversary and the dedication of this space will be the first of several events celebrating our storied past. As the largest agricultural organization in Oklahoma, this plaza is dedicated to our members who serve as stewards of the land all across Oklahoma,” said Tom Buchanan, President of Oklahoma Farm Bureau.

A major goal of the project was to utilize at least 60% native plant material. If the material is not native than it was selected to resemble plant material from that quadrant of the state. Studio W did this successfully within the design using 69% native material throughout the site. Ornamental grasses were selected to be the focus of the plant pallet while using evergreen and deciduous shrubs to act as visual accents or to frame entrances to the plaza and buildings. In turn this selection represents the plains, prairie, and crosstimbers ecosystems that make up much of the state. Grasses are seen more heavily on the western half of the site representing southwestern and northwestern Oklahoma. The eastern half of the site utilizes more trees and shrubs to represent the more forested areas of the state ranging from the Ozark Highlands and Boston Mountains to the South Central Plains of Southeastern Oklahoma.

The design has natural curvilinear forms on the periphery of the plaza to transition into the larger part of the site, this is a stark contrast to the dominant hard, clean lines of the architectural style of the building that was built in 1954. 

“At night, the pillars are spotlighted by warm LED up lights. The LED comprehensive lighting system allows for specific light shows, color combinations and effects, to illuminate the front sign at the Farm Bureau. The lighting system will incorporate a tasteful fluctuation of light creating an active display of the Farm Bureau logo and company name which is sure to catch the attention of anyone passing by.” said Jason Wilke Owner of Studio W. 

The Farm Bureau plans to utilize the Plaza for educational gatherings specifically for school age children, ceremonies, multi-purpose corporate gatherings, and utilized by employees more intimately throughout the day.

For more information, contact, Jason Wilke, Owner, The Studio W, The State’s Premier Landscape and Design Company, jason@thestudiow.com, 405.285.5610

Landscape and Lighting

Exterior lighting is the most popular outdoor living feature among homeowners, according to a recent survey by the American Society of Landscape Architects 

Strategically placed landscape lighting is used to
enhance outdoor features.

Landscape lighting that is strategically placed is used to illuminate walkways, accentuate key features  and provide a sense of depth to a project or yard at night. Besides extending the length of time you can spend outdoors in the summer, landscape lighting can also extend the time you can spend outdoors in the winter when the sun begins to set at 5:00pm.   

Whether you want to relax on your back patio, highlight landscaping around your home with up-lights, or you have a commercial project that needs lighting, remember to choose a Landscape Design company who specializes in lighting and design.

There are many applications of outdoor lighting and thats where a professional Landscape Designer can help.  You want to make sure you are strategic in where they are placed to create an inviting outdoor environment that will enhance the beauty of your landscape and provide an element of safety and security.  Focal points stand out and become more beautiful with lighting.

When you are planning your outdoor project, don't forget the lighting.  Your landscape project will will change dramatically under the lights at night.  You will want to enjoy it year around.

To schedule an appointment, or request information, contact us at info@outerlivingok.com.  Our team of professional Landscape Designers will be happy to help!