top of page
Search
Writer's pictureFrancis NoVe

Low maintenance landscaping design

Welcome to a journey where science and art combine in the heart of nature. We will explore the impact of natural elements on our green spaces, balance with the principles of permaculture, create an exterior that reflects our respect for living things, and finally, ecological maintenance. We offer you a new vision of landscape design, rich in valuable learning and imbued with an authentic beauty inspired by Mother Nature herself.

Low mainteance permaculture landscape design

Natural Influence


Biological mimicry, a muse for landscaping

In our quest for harmony with nature, we have often sought to understand and reproduce its splendors. This fascination manifests in biological mimicry, where fundamental principles of nature are transformed into pragmatic solutions. We see this in climbing plants that grow at the foot of structures supporting their weight or in dense forests, highlighting the importance of diversity and layers of plant cover for a healthy ecosystem (tree, shrub, and ground cover).



Geometry and resonance: when architecture and landscape become one.


We can also directly integrate organic concepts within our human constructions by relying on this idea. Meandering rivers can influence the design of walking paths, while majestic trees can inspire the creation of superb columns for a pergola. Each element of the landscape is considered a potential source of inspiration. Conversely, the existing architectural components become elements to connect to in our approach to low maintenance landscaping design. For example, it is possible to relate to the house's proportions to create an air of rest outside or to follow its guidelines. This not only allows for better visual integration with the environment but also builds the feeling of general unity. This is how we can live with complete harmony in our courtyard while enjoying modern conveniences.



Harmonization with permaculture


Natural principles significantly inspire a holistic approach to landscape planning. Instead of imposing a human-defined structure on the Earth, we aspire to understand and collaborate symbiotically with existing systems. A wild plum tree that grows spontaneously in a corner of the garden becomes a valuable element of our design rather than an unwanted weed. The tracks created by the frequent passage of wild animals are transformed into our favorite garden paths. Permaculture is based on three fundamental ethics: caring for the Earth, caring for people, and sharing available resources fairly; by adhering to these principles when landscaping, it is possible to have a beautiful garden and aid in general well-being - both for ourselves and all forms of life around it. In reality, every small decision made during the process can be significant: opting for an edible plant instead of an ornamental one, creating an environment favorable to beneficial insects, and favoring local rather than global development are all illustrative examples.

Our role is not that traditionally attributed to the "gardener," an all-powerful master who imposes his will on his domain, but rather that of the humble and attentive facilitator who listens attentively to what the land tells him before he even begins to plant anything.


The success of a successful design


The Floral Symphony


Low mainteance permaculture landscape design

As artists and scientists, we seek to create floral harmony that transcends the boundaries of the traditional garden. We find our inspiration in the wild, where each plant uniquely contributes to a complex dance of ecological interactions. Each species, from the majestic oak to the delicate forget-me-not, is selected for its distinctive character and contribution to the landscaped space's overall balance.


The Energy of Feng Shui


The integration of ancestral principles of Feng Shui in the design of our gardens allows us to amplify their beauty while promoting the well-being of the occupants. It's not just an aesthetic issue; it is a way to improve the energy flow of your external environment by strategically positioning elements such as trees, rocks, or water points according to their respective properties linked to the five elements: wood, fire, Earth, water, and metal.


Practical functionality


To those who think that beauty must be free of practical functionality;

our landscape designs aren't just beautiful - they're helpful, too. Whether through the judicious selection of locally grown edible or medicinal plants, the careful construction of ergonomic paths to facilitate your movement within the garden, or even by the subtle, effective inclusion of leisure elements such as benches, arbors, or small rest areas. A well-designed space invites you to use it and connect with the harmony of the surrounding nature.

Low mainteance permaculture landscape design

Connect with humans


The most profound and most authentic wish of every good garden designer is that it be used and appreciated by those who entrust the design of their dream outdoor space. It is essential to know the users at the start of the mandate. The outdoor space is intended to reflect their tastes and needs, encouraging very attentive listening to the particularities specific to a person and their life context.



Ecological landscape maintenance


The role of mulch in ecological maintenance


Preserving biodiversity requires a particular dedication. Thanks to tools such as mulch, it becomes possible to facilitate this task while promoting a healthy environment for fauna and flora. The forest mulch that we use thus reproduces the fertile upper layer generally found in forests; this protects our soils against erosion, preserves their humidity, and creates humus, a guarantee of fertility and resilience for the soil.


The art of division: long term only


Anyone passionate about nature will understand that a respectful and thoughtful approach is essential to a long term sustainable gardening. Thus, practicing division after a few years can avoid overcrowding of plants while stimulating their vigorous growth. This process enriches the visual aesthetic of our green space and reinforces its ecological solidity by preserving the longevity of plant populations.


Borders: low maintenance landscaping design's best secret


The judicious use of borders must be considered to complement these landscaping maintenance techniques. They provide an architectural structure highlighting any creation inspired by Mother Nature; they also play a crucial role in preventing certain invasive species from spreading beyond a specific area. Therefore, by establishing borders, we reinforce the natural limits in each ecosystem and ensure the long-term prosperity of our eco-responsible development.



Low mainteance permaculture landscape design


Ultimately, it's essential to highlight that a low maintenance landscaping design can be pivotal in our quest for balance. Serving as the bridge to a profound connection with the natural world, it invites us to engage with the mysteries of Nature that envelop us, simultaneously inspiring our innermost selves.

8 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page