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

Outdoor Lighting Highlights Pool and Landscape

Outdoor lighting can add a certain ambiance to your backyard.  When placed around a swimming pool, it also adds an element of safety.

Lighting adds a beautiful focal point to your
pool and surrounding landscape

There are many ways and areas you can highlight outdoor features with lighting.  You can add LED lights that change colors to add a dramatic look, or soft white lights to highlight plants and ensure safety when walking around a swimming pool at night.

Lighting is also a great way to light pathways or entertainment areas.

When entertaining outdoors, task lighting is essential.  Whether you are grilling or doing outdoor activities after dark, the proper lighting will help make your party a success.

Soft white lighting can be added to pergola's or around a bar top to give it a sense of relaxation and tranquility.  While color changing lights around a pool or hot tub changes the whole environment making it more fun and playful.

It's important where you add lighting and how much lighting is added to each area so they aren't competing with each other.  That's where a professional landscape design firm can help.  They will help you design the space, help add plants that are native to your area, and add the appropriate lighting in the right places.

Investing in a beautiful backyard space will last for years to come and add to the value of your property if you ever decide to sell it.

For more information on outdoor living space design, swimming pools, or outdoor lighting, contact Studio W at info@thestudiow.com or 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!