Ninety-seven percent of landscape architects reported that fire elements were much in demand for this year, followed closely by grills, outdoor seating and dining areas, and lighting.
ASLA Executive Vice President and CEO Nancy Somerville said that in this [still] "uncertain economy, homeowners want to get more enjoyment out of their yards. They want attractive outdoor spaces that are both easy to take care of and sustainable."
Other very popular landscape elements included waterfalls, ornamental pools and splash pools, along with terraces, patios, decks and fencing.
As far as plants are concerned, ASLA reports that more than 90 percent of homeowners want low-maintenance plantings, and there's a slight increase in the preference for organic, food, and vegetable gardens, including orchards and vineyards.
Sustainable gardening elements are also rising in popularity. Homeowners are opting for native or drought-tolerant plants, drip irrigation, permeable paving and a reduction in lawns. That's good news for everyone.
I have to say it was pretty similar at the last quarter last year and probably that would be the basis this year trend… XOXO:D
Posted by: Mary J. Ratliff | February 25, 2013 at 05:20 AM