The modern homeowner won’t tolerate an unattractive home for the sake of function, nor will they sacrifice the functionality of their home in the name of style. Nowadays, homeowners seek out options that offer a seamless blend of both, especially when it comes to landscaping materials. Style and functionality increase property value, capture the eye of investors and, most importantly, make a home’s outdoor space more enjoyable for those who live there.
Contemporary landscaping is achieved by selecting the right materials, those that satisfy their purpose while creating an aesthetically pleasing outdoor space. In this article, we’ll explore how perforated pool fencing, decorative concrete, modular planters and recycled materials can elevate landscaping. We’ll consider safety, upkeep, sustainability, and cost, and discuss how these elements can work together to achieve a contemporary landscape that feels both intentional and inspired.
Perforated Pool Fencing for Safety and Style
For homeowners with pools, safety is one of the top priorities when selecting landscaping materials, especially for families with little ones or furry friends. Perforated pool fencing, which meets Australian pool safety standards, offers several advantages, including security and visual appeal.
The small perforations in the metal allow for clear views into the pool area, enabling watchful eyes to monitor children and pets, but still maintain a level of privacy. This type of fencing is elegant, contemporary and visually interesting, making it the perfect blend of safety and style. As a bonus, perforated pool fencing is highly durable and easy to clean, so the benefits far outweigh the costs of maintenance and repairs.
Modular Planters for Flexibility and Garden Health
Modular planters offer flexibility in arranging flowers and greenery for a unique landscape design – homeowners can use modular planters to create vertical gardens, divide spaces or customise the shape of their outdoor space. In addition to their versatile aesthetic value, modular planters are also excellent for the health of a garden. Modular planters offer a controlled environment with rich soil and improved drainage that promotes plant growth and reduces the risk of root rot.
Some modular planters are self-watering, reducing water waste and requiring less maintenance than a standard garden. They’re also ideal for homeowners who may plan to move in the future, as modular planters can be easily moved from one home to the next. Fortunately, modular planters come in various colours and landscaping materials, so homeowners can reap all the benefits without sacrificing style.
Decorative Concrete for a Modern, Low-Maintenance Look
Decorative concrete is a homeowner’s dream come true – it offers a modern, stylish look without the high maintenance. Unlike standard concrete, which is often drab, grey and rough, decorative concrete is customisable – it can be smooth, polished and produced in a wide array of colours to suit any landscaping style. As one of the most versatile landscaping materials, stamped and stencilled versions can even mimic the appearance of natural stone, giving the illusion of luxury at a fraction of the cost.
Despite its appealing look, decorative concrete serves the same function as standard concrete and is just as low-maintenance. Homeowners can use decorative concrete as flooring in patios and alfresco areas, slip-resistant pool surrounds, or elevated walkways and driveways. Decorative concrete in landscaping can endure harsh weather conditions, resist stains and cracking, and reduce cleaning and maintenance costs, giving homeowners more time to enjoy their outdoor space.
Stainless Steel for Captivating & Functional Features
A material once reserved for the indoors has made its way to the landscaping industry with force. Stainless steel is now a standout among modern landscaping materials, used in many different features in landscaping design because it delivers a startling contrast against the natural elements, while also being highly functional. The main functionality benefit of stainless steel is its durability and longevity. It doesn’t corrode, rust or break down, which is why it has worked so well for kitchens for many years, but it also suits the outdoors where it may be exposed to water, wind and salt.
Stainless steel is fantastic for features like sculptures, BBQs and outdoor kitchens, dining tables and firepits. When perched in between trees, grass, flowers or shrubs, the combination provides a captivating contrast that draws character and charm into the outdoor space. Another positive of stainless steel is that it is very low maintenance. It doesn’t need to be painted, sealed or treated to protect it from the elements like other materials, and you can simply clean it with a damp cloth. Its sleek and aesthetic style will shine for years to come without much effort on the owner’s part.
Recycled Materials for an Eco-Friendly Appeal
Sustainability is the word on everyone’s mind these days. When building walkways, finding planters, and fencing in the pool, choosing eco-friendly, attractive materials can give greater peace of mind about one’s carbon footprint. Opting for recycled materials helps reduce the demand for newly manufactured ones, lowering emissions along the supply chain.
Recycled brick, reclaimed wood and native, drought-resistant plants can enhance the eco-conscious appeal of a contemporary landscape design. And they’re as practical as they are responsible. Sustainable materials often require less water, fewer chemical treatments and minimal upkeep, which means less effort and cost for homeowners. As a bonus, recycled and reclaimed materials bring character and history to an outdoor space, giving a landscape a unique personality.
Key Takeaways
Landscaping can do more than boost a home’s curb appeal. It can completely change outdoor spaces, offering safety, versatility and visual appeal. With these landscaping materials, homeowners can enjoy style and functionality. In summary:
- Perforated pool fencing provides excellent visibility and meets Australian pool safety standards while remaining an elegant choice for homeowners with children and pets.
- Modular planters allow for flexible, customisable garden designs while also promoting plant health and reducing water waste.
- Decorative concrete comes in many different colours, textures and finishes that can transform otherwise dull elements like walkways and pool surrounds into aesthetically pleasing, low-maintenance design features.
- Stainless steel features which are easy to maintain, corrosion and rust resistant and offer a stunning contrast against the natural beautiful of your garden.
- Eco-friendly materials like recycled brick, reclaimed wood and native plants dramatically reduce the carbon footprint of a landscape design while bringing warmth and character into an outdoor space.
