Landscape Focal Points: The Key to Great Landscape Design

The Key to Great Landscape Design

Have you ever looked at a landscape design and wondered why everything seems to be pointing toward one specific area? Chances are, that area is the landscape focal point. Landscaping focal points are extremely important in landscape design as they help to pull everything together and bring harmony to the design. Read on to learn more about landscaping focal points from our talented team.

What Is a Focal Point in Landscape Design?

A focal point is an area or object that naturally draws the eye’s attention. Creating a focal point in your landscape design is important because it can help to give your landscape a sense of purpose or unity.

A landscape focal point can be anything from a beautiful tree to an interesting piece of garden art. It can even be something as simple as a group of colorful flowers. 

The important thing is that the landscape focal point is something you find visually appealing and will help tie the rest of the space together.

What Does a Focal Point Do?

A landscape focal point can serve several different purposes in a landscape design. The following are some of the most common uses of landscaping focal points:

  • To draw the eye and create interest
  • To anchor other elements in the landscape design
  • To add a sense of scale or proportion
  • To provide a sense of movement or flow
  • To create a sense of drama or suspense

Landscape Focal Point Ideas

There are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing a landscaping focal point. It can be whatever you find visually appealing  and that will help to tie the rest of your landscape together.

architectural landscape design: helping homeowners enjoy better living

Backyard Landscape Focal Points Ideas

Your backyard should be a place where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors. But sometimes, it can be hard to know where to start when you want to create a space that feels like an extension of your home. So, let’s look at some backyard landscape focal point ideas that can help create a backyard space you’ll love.

A Relaxing Water Feature

There’s nothing quite like the sound of running water to help you relax and unwind. Adding a water feature like a fountain or waterfall as the focal point of your backyard is a great way to create a tranquil atmosphere. Plus, it’s sure to be a hit with any visitors you may have. 

If you’re not keen on having an actual pond in your yard, you can always opt for a faux one. There are plenty of options available that look just as good as the real thing but don’t require as much maintenance.

A Cozy Fire Pit

Nothing says summer like sitting around a fire pit roasting marshmallows and making s’mores with family and friends. Aside from a fantastic landscaping focal point, a fire pit is also a great way to extend the use of your backyard into the cooler months. 

A Grown-Up Swing Set

Who says swing sets are just for kids? Adding a grown-up swing set is a great backyard landscape focal point that will add style and functionality to your backyard. Look for one that includes a bench or two for relaxing and enjoying the view, or opt for a more elaborate setup that includes a play area for the family. 

Sitting Area With a View

If you’re lucky enough to have a beautiful view in your backyard, make the most of it by creating a cozy sitting area as your backyard landscape focal point. 

Add a few comfortable chairs, a bench, and some pretty landscape lighting, and you’ll have a spot perfect for relaxing after a long day or entertaining guests.

Front Yard Landscape Focal Point Ideas

One of the first things people see when they visit your home is your front yard. If you want to make a good impression with focal points, front yard landscaping is the place to do it. But, what should you include? Below are a few focal points for front yard landscaping that will add curb appeal to your home.

An Ornamental Tree or Shrub

Planting an ornamental tree or shrub is another excellent way to add interest to the focal points of your front yard landscaping. When selecting a plant, choose one appropriate for the size of your yard and the amount of sunlight it receives. With proper care, it will become a stunning focal point in no time. 

Built-In Lighting 

Installing built-in lighting is an easy way to add function and beauty to your landscape. Path lights can help visitors safely navigate your property at night, while accent lights can highlight special features like trees, shrubs, or sculptures. 

You could even use rope or string lights to create a lovely ambiance in your front yard. No matter what type of lighting you choose, it will polish off your landscaping and create an eye-catching focal point. 

Colorful Flowers

Brightening up the focal points in your front yard landscaping with colorful flowers is a great way to add instant appeal. Choose blooms that compliment the exterior of your home and are appropriate for your climate. A few eye-catching options include:

  • Pansies
  • Impatiens
  • Petunias
  • Summer snapdragons

A Welcoming Walkway

The walkway leading up to your front door is integral to your front yard landscape. First, ensure it’s in good repair and free of weeds or other debris. Then, add some pizazz using pavers or stone in an interesting pattern or design. 

Choosing a Focal Point for Your Landscape Design

When choosing a focal point for your landscape design, there are a few things to remember.

  • Size of Your Yard: If you have a small yard, choose something that will significantly impact without overwhelming the space. For larger yards, you have more flexibility and can choose a more elaborate focal point.
  • Style of Your Home: Select a landscape focal point that compliments the style of your home.
  • Maintenance: Consider how much time and effort you will put into maintaining your landscape. Some landscaping focal points, like water features, require more upkeep than others.
  • Existing Features in Your Yard: If you already have a few standout features in your landscape, you may want to choose a more subdued focal point. Otherwise, you risk overwhelming your yard and making it feel cluttered.
  • Climate: In a cold climate, you may want to choose a landscape focal point that you can enjoy year-round, such as an evergreen tree or shrub. In a hot climate, you may want to focus on cool features like a swimming pool or water feature.
  • Personal Preferences: Ultimately, the best landscape focal point is the one you love and fits your style. Do some research to find ideas that appeal to you, then talk to a professional landscape designer about making your vision a reality.

If you want to improve your landscape design, landscaping focal points are key. Adding elements that draw the eye and create a sense of interest can add beauty and functionality to your yard or garden. 

Architectural Landscape Design: Helping Homeowners Enjoy Better Living

ALD’s team of expert landscapers will work with you to create the perfect landscape for your home. Our priority is ensuring you’re satisfied with your space, from focal points to outdoor rooms. Contact us today for a free consultation and begin to make your landscaping dreams a reality.