Landscape Styles

Are you dreaming of an outdoor space that perfectly reflects your personal style and enhances your home’s aesthetic? Whether you’re starting from scratch or revamping an existing garden, understanding different landscape styles can be your first step towards creating your dream outdoor space. At Project Landscape, we specialize in bringing diverse landscaping visions to life, right here in the heart of Calgary. In this blog, we’re going to take you on a journey through four popular landscape styles: the sleek and sophisticated Modern, the cozy and natural Rustic, the elegant and timeless Traditional, and the minimalist and bold Contemporary. Each style has its unique charm and characteristics, and we’re excited to help you discover which one resonates with you and your home the most. So, let’s delve into these diverse worlds of landscaping and get inspired to transform your outdoor space into a true extension of your home!

Modern landscape Style

Embracing Modern Landscape Style with Project Landscape in Calgary

Hey Calgary homeowners! Are you looking to give your outdoor space a contemporary twist? Modern landscape design might just be what you’re searching for. It’s not just about clean lines and minimalism; it’s about creating functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that reflect the sophistication and pace of modern life. At Project Landscape, we’re all about blending style, functionality, and sustainability in our landscape designs. Let’s dive into what makes the modern landscape style stand out and how you can bring this chic look to your home.

Defining Modern Landscape Style

Modern landscaping is characterized by its sleek, streamlined aesthetic that emphasizes simplicity and sophistication. Think geometric patterns, structured plantings, and a restrained color palette. But it’s not all about looks; functionality is key. Modern landscapes are designed to be as usable as they are beautiful, often incorporating outdoor living spaces, dining areas, and even outdoor kitchens.

Materials Make the Design

In modern landscape design, the materials used play a significant role. We often use elements like concrete, metal, and wood in clean, horizontal lines to create a sense of order and precision. These materials aren’t just chosen for their looks; they’re durable, low maintenance, and can handle Calgary’s varied climate.

Plants in Modern Landscaping

When it comes to plant selection, modern landscapes often lean towards a more minimalist approach. Instead of overflowing flower beds, we focus on structured plantings with a limited but impactful color scheme. Native plants are a great choice for this style, as they’re low maintenance and environmentally friendly. Ornamental grasses, succulents, and evergreens are also popular for adding texture and greenery without clutter.

Water Features and Fire Pits

Modern landscapes often include water features or fire pits as focal points. A sleek, geometric water feature can add a tranquil element to your garden, while a fire pit provides a warm, inviting gathering place. Both features are perfect for extending the usability of your outdoor space into the cooler evenings and seasons.

Lighting the Way

Lighting is another crucial element of modern landscape design. It’s not just about illuminating your space; it’s about creating an ambiance. Strategic lighting can highlight architectural features, accentuate landscape elements, and extend the usability of your outdoor space well into the night.

Outdoor Living Spaces

One of the hallmarks of modern landscape design is the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living. This might mean extending the lines of your home into your yard with a patio that mirrors your home’s architecture, or creating an outdoor living room that’s as comfortable and stylish as your indoor space. In Calgary, where the outdoors is a big part of our lifestyle, these spaces become essential extensions of our homes.

Sustainability in Modern Design

Sustainability is at the heart of modern landscape design. At Project Landscape, we focus on creating landscapes that are not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible. This means using water-wise plants, incorporating permeable paving, and designing with the local ecosystem in mind.

Your Modern Landscape Journey

Embracing modern landscape design is about creating a space that resonates with contemporary elegance and functional simplicity. It’s a style that not only transforms your outdoor space but also enhances your overall living experience.

At Project Landscape in Calgary, we’re excited to help you bring your modern landscape vision to life. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to give your existing yard a modern makeover, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

Modern landscape Style FAQ

1. What defines a modern landscape style?
- Modern landscape style is characterized by its emphasis on clean, straight lines, minimalism, and a neutral color palette. It often includes geometric shapes in both planting and hardscape designs, and incorporates materials like metal, concrete, and wood. This style focuses on simplicity and functionality, blending man-made structures with natural elements.
2. How does modern landscaping handle plant selection and garden areas?
- In modern landscaping, plant selection tends to be minimalistic. Instead of lush, overflowing gardens, it features well-defined, sculptural plants or grouped species for a more uniform look. Ornamental grasses, succulents, and other low-maintenance plants are commonly used to create clean, simple, and aesthetically pleasing areas.
3. Are water features suitable for modern landscape designs?
- Yes, water features are often used in modern landscapes but they usually follow the style’s overall minimalistic and geometric themes. Features like linear fountains, simple water walls, or even small, sleek ponds can complement a modern landscape by adding a tranquil and sophisticated element.
4. Can modern landscapes be environmentally friendly?
- Absolutely. Modern landscape design often incorporates sustainable practices, such as using drought-tolerant plants, implementing efficient irrigation systems, and utilizing materials that are environmentally friendly. The simplicity of the design also often means less maintenance and water usage.
5. How do modern landscapes integrate outdoor living spaces?
- Modern landscapes seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living spaces. This is often achieved through the use of patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens that mirror the home’s interior design. The use of large, open spaces and the integration of outdoor furniture and fire pits also encourages outdoor living and entertainment in a modern aesthetic.

Rustic Landscape Style

Discovering the Charm of Rustic Landscape Style with Project Landscape in Calgary

Are you looking to infuse a bit of country charm into your urban oasis? Rustic landscape style might be just what your home needs. This style is all about embracing the natural, relaxed, and timelessly charming aspects of outdoor spaces. At Project Landscape, we love blending the rustic aesthetic with Calgary’s unique surroundings to create enchanting outdoor areas. Let’s explore the cozy world of rustic landscaping and how it can transform your space.

What is Rustic Landscape Style?

Rustic landscaping is all about a natural and informal look. Think of a garden that blends seamlessly with nature, featuring native plants, natural stone, and organic shapes. It’s less about meticulous design and more about celebrating the beauty of imperfection and the simplicity of rural life. This style often incorporates elements like rough-hewn wood, weathered materials, and a palette of earthy tones to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Natural Materials are Key

In rustic landscape design, natural materials take center stage. We use things like untreated wood, rough stone, and natural fibers, which not only withstand Calgary’s diverse weather but also age beautifully. These materials blend into the surroundings, creating a sense of continuity between your garden and the natural world.

Native Planting: Beauty and Sustainability

Choosing the right plants is crucial in a rustic landscape. At Project Landscape, we focus on native plants that thrive in Calgary’s climate. These plants require less water and maintenance, making your garden sustainable and easy to care for. Plus, they attract local wildlife, adding life and movement to your outdoor space.

Creating Cozy Nooks and Gathering Spaces

A rustic garden is a perfect setting for cozy nooks and gathering spaces. Imagine a fire pit surrounded by natural stone seating, a wooden bench nestled among wildflowers, or a pergola draped with climbing vines. These spaces invite relaxation and connection, making your backyard a haven for family and friends.

Water Features with a Natural Twist

Water features in a rustic landscape mimic natural water bodies. Think of a pond edged with stones or a small, babbling brook. These features feel like they’ve been part of the landscape for years, adding a tranquil element to your garden.

Rustic Lighting: Soft and Subtle

Lighting in a rustic landscape is about subtlety and warmth. Lantern-style lights, string lights draped in trees, or low-voltage LED lights hidden among plants can create a soft, inviting glow in the evenings.

Paths and Walkways: Following Nature’s Lead

Paths in a rustic garden are winding and made with natural materials like flagstone or gravel. They meander through the garden, inviting exploration and surprise discoveries, much like a walk in the countryside.

Embracing Calgary’s Natural Beauty

At Project Landscape, we understand that Calgary’s natural beauty is the perfect backdrop for a rustic landscape. We design gardens that not only reflect this style but also complement the local environment, creating a seamless transition between your home and the natural world around you.

Rustic landscape Style FAQ

1. What characterizes a rustic landscape style?
- Rustic landscape style is known for its natural, informal, and often whimsical charm. It emphasizes the use of organic, unrefined elements and native plants. This style often includes features like natural stone paths, rough-hewn wood, and wildflower gardens, creating a cozy, ‘lived-in’ feel that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
2. What types of materials are commonly used in rustic landscaping?
- In rustic landscaping, materials that are natural and rustic in appearance are preferred. This includes untreated wood (like cedar or pine), natural stones, and reclaimed materials. These elements are chosen for their ability to create a natural, earthy aesthetic that looks as though it has naturally evolved over time.
3. How does rustic landscaping incorporate plants and greenery?
- Plant choice in rustic landscaping leans towards native species that require minimal maintenance. The goal is to mimic the natural landscape, so plants are often arranged in a more informal, free-growing manner. Perennials, wildflowers, and ornamental grasses are popular choices, as they add color and texture while maintaining a natural appearance.
4. Can rustic landscapes be designed for small urban yards?
- Absolutely! Rustic landscapes can be adapted to any size yard. In smaller, urban spaces, rustic elements can be incorporated through container gardens, small water features like bird baths, and the use of natural materials in patios or walkways. The key is to create a sense of nature and simplicity, regardless of the space’s size.
5. Are water features suitable for rustic landscape designs?
- Yes, water features are a great addition to rustic landscapes. However, they are usually more naturalistic and less structured than those found in other landscape styles. For example, a small pond lined with stones or a simple, babbling brook can add a tranquil and organic feel to a rustic garden.

Traditional Landscape Style

Bringing Timeless Elegance to Your Home with Traditional Landscape Style – Project Landscape in Calgary

Looking to add a touch of timeless elegance to your outdoor space? Traditional landscape style might be the perfect fit for you. Known for its classic beauty and enduring charm, traditional landscaping is all about creating a harmonious and balanced outdoor space that stands the test of time. At Project Landscape, we’re experts at weaving this style into Calgary’s diverse and beautiful landscapes. Let’s delve into the world of traditional landscaping and see how it can elevate your outdoor living experience.

What is Traditional Landscape Style?

Traditional landscape style is characterized by its symmetrical designs, classic patterns, and a sense of formal elegance. It’s a nod to the gardens of the past, often reminiscent of European styles, particularly English and French garden designs. This style emphasizes well-defined spaces, neatly trimmed hedges, and a structured layout. Think manicured lawns, ornate fountains, and elegant garden paths – each element is a piece of a larger, harmonious picture.

Planting in Traditional Landscaping

In a traditional landscape, plant selection and placement are key. We often use a mixture of perennial borders, annual flower beds, and shrubs to create a lush, layered look. The color palette is usually more restrained, focusing on greens and whites with occasional pops of color. At Project Landscape, we carefully select plants that not only fit this style but also thrive in Calgary’s climate, ensuring your garden looks great year-round.

Hardscaping: The Backbone of Traditional Style

Hardscaping in traditional landscaping is all about creating structure and defining spaces. We use materials like natural stone, brick, and wrought iron to build elegant patios, walkways, and fences. These elements not only add to the garden’s aesthetic but also provide functionality, whether it’s a cozy seating area or a grand entrance pathway.

Water Features: A Touch of Sophistication

Water features are a common element in traditional landscapes. From a classic tiered fountain to a small reflecting pool, these water elements add a sense of tranquility and sophistication. They’re not just visually appealing; the sound of water adds a calming ambiance to your outdoor space.

Lighting: Illuminating Beauty

Proper lighting is crucial in a traditional landscape. It highlights the architectural features of your garden, creates a warm atmosphere, and extends the usability of your outdoor space into the evening. We focus on elegant lighting fixtures that complement the traditional style, such as lanterns and lamp posts.

Seasonal Considerations in Calgary

Calgary’s distinct seasons offer unique opportunities to showcase the beauty of a traditional landscape. Spring and summer bring blooming flowers and lush greenery, while autumn adds a warm palette of reds and golds. Even in winter, the structural elements of a traditional garden, like evergreens and hardscaping, stand out against the snowy backdrop.

Melding Tradition with Calgary’s Unique Style

At Project Landscape, we understand that every home and homeowner is unique. While we draw inspiration from traditional design principles, we also tailor our approach to fit your individual style and Calgary’s diverse landscape. Our goal is to create a traditional garden that feels both timeless and personal.

Traditional Landscape Style FAQ

1. What defines traditional landscape style?
- Traditional landscape style is characterized by its formal, structured design, often reflecting the classic European garden styles like English and French gardens. It typically includes symmetrical layouts, neatly manicured lawns, precisely trimmed hedges, and orderly flower beds. This style emphasizes balance, order, and a sense of timeless elegance.
2. What types of plants are commonly used in traditional landscaping?
- In traditional landscaping, plant selection often includes a variety of formal hedges, perennial borders, and seasonal flowering plants. Common choices are boxwoods, roses, lavender, and other classic garden plants that can be shaped and maintained for a neat appearance. The plant palette is usually kept harmonious and often features a consistent color theme.
3. How are paths and walkways designed in traditional landscapes?
- Paths and walkways in traditional landscapes are typically well-defined and symmetrical, often made from classic materials like brick, flagstone, or gravel. They are designed to lead the eye and foot through the garden in a deliberate, orderly manner, often culminating in a focal point like a statue, fountain, or gazebo.
4. Can traditional landscape styles be adapted to smaller, modern yards?
- Yes, traditional landscaping can be adapted to fit smaller, modern yards. While maintaining its formal and elegant essence, the design can be simplified to suit the scale of a smaller space. Key elements like symmetrical planting beds, a central focal point, and classic materials can be incorporated into a smaller yard to achieve a traditional look.
5. Are water features common in traditional landscape designs?
- Water features are indeed common in traditional landscapes and are often used as a central focal point. Features like ornate fountains, formal ponds, and reflecting pools are popular choices. These water elements are typically designed to complement the formal, symmetrical style of the garden and add a sense of tranquility and elegance.

Contemporary Landscape Style

Revolutionize Your Outdoor Space with Contemporary Landscape Style – A Project Landscape Guide in Calgary

Hey Calgary homeowners! Are you looking to give your outdoor space a modern and sophisticated makeover? The contemporary landscape style might just be what you need. This style is all about clean lines, bold geometric shapes, and a blend of man-made and natural materials. At Project Landscape, we love bringing contemporary design to life, creating outdoor spaces that are not only stunning but also functional and sustainable. Let’s dive into what makes contemporary landscape style so unique and how it can transform your Calgary home.

Defining Contemporary Landscape Style

Contemporary landscape style is characterized by its sleek and minimalist approach, blending modern art with landscaping. It’s about creating a space that reflects the present-day lifestyle, embracing innovation and simplicity. This style often features a restricted color palette, focusing on textures and form to create visual interest. Think of streamlined garden beds, sculptural plants, and striking hardscapes.

Materials Make the Contemporary Style

In a contemporary landscape, the choice of materials is key. We often use a combination of concrete, metal, glass, and wood to create a look that’s both modern and timeless. These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to create clean, defined lines that are synonymous with contemporary design.

Planting in a Contemporary Setting

Plant selection in a contemporary landscape is all about simplicity and impact. Instead of dense flower beds, we focus on a few select plant species that make a bold statement. Ornamental grasses, succulents, and architectural plants like agave or yucca are popular choices. At Project Landscape, we choose plants that not only fit the contemporary style but also thrive in Calgary’s climate.

Water Features and Fire Elements

Water features and fire elements are common in contemporary landscapes, often serving as the focal point. A sleek, geometric water feature or a modern fire pit can add drama and functionality to your outdoor space. These elements are perfect for creating an inviting atmosphere, especially during Calgary’s cool evenings.

Outdoor Living and Entertainment Spaces

Contemporary landscapes are designed with outdoor living in mind. We create spaces that are perfect for entertaining or relaxing, from outdoor kitchens to cozy fire pit areas. These spaces are designed to be an extension of your home, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor living.

Lighting: Setting the Mood

Lighting in a contemporary landscape is about more than just visibility; it’s about setting the mood and highlighting the design. We use strategic lighting to accentuate architectural plants, light up pathways, and create a warm, inviting glow in seating areas.

Adapting to Calgary’s Unique Environment

In Calgary, where the landscape and weather can vary dramatically, contemporary landscaping offers flexibility and resilience. We design landscapes that are not only beautiful but also adaptable to the changing seasons, ensuring that your outdoor space is enjoyable year-round.

Contemporary Landscape: Your Personal Oasis

Embracing contemporary landscape design is about creating a space that resonates with modern elegance and simplicity. It’s a style that transforms your outdoor area into a personal oasis, reflecting your individual taste and lifestyle.

At Project Landscape in Calgary, we’re excited to help you bring your contemporary landscape vision to life. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to give your existing yard a modern update, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contemporary Landscape Style FAQ

1. What is contemporary landscape style?
- Contemporary landscape style is characterized by its emphasis on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and blending indoor and outdoor spaces. It often features a combination of hardscaping with natural elements and is known for its bold, uncluttered aesthetic. This style frequently includes modern materials like metal, concrete, and glass, along with sustainable, low-maintenance plantings.
2. How does plant selection work in contemporary landscaping?
- In contemporary landscaping, plant selection is focused on simplicity and sustainability. Plants are often chosen for their architectural qualities and ease of maintenance. This might include ornamental grasses, succulents, and other drought-tolerant plants. The goal is to create a visually striking yet low-maintenance garden that complements the modern aesthetic.
3. Are water features used in contemporary landscape designs?
- Yes, water features are commonly used in contemporary landscapes but in a more minimalist and sleek design compared to traditional styles. Features like a simple reflecting pool, a clean-lined fountain, or a subtle water wall can add a tranquil yet sophisticated element to contemporary outdoor spaces.
4. What kind of materials are typically used in contemporary landscaping?
- Contemporary landscapes often use modern, durable materials that complement the minimalist aesthetic. This includes materials like polished concrete, steel, and natural wood. These materials are chosen for their clean lines and ability to create a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor areas.
5. How does contemporary landscaping integrate outdoor living spaces?
- Contemporary landscaping places a strong emphasis on creating functional outdoor living spaces that act as an extension of the home. This can include outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and comfortable seating areas. The design often blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors, using similar materials and style elements to create a cohesive look.

Conclusion:

As we’ve explored the distinct characteristics of Modern, Rustic, Traditional, and Contemporary landscape styles, it’s clear that each offers its unique appeal and design philosophy. Whether you’re drawn to the clean lines of a modern landscape, the charming natural feel of a rustic garden, the formal elegance of traditional design, or the bold minimalism of contemporary style, there’s a landscape waiting to mirror your personal taste and lifestyle.

At Project Landscape in Calgary, we’re passionate about transforming your outdoor spaces into areas that not only reflect these styles but also blend seamlessly with your personal aesthetic and the Calgary landscape. Our team of experts is dedicated to crafting spaces that are not just visually stunning but also functional and sustainable.

Ready to embark on your landscaping journey? Whether you’re certain about the style you want or still exploring your options, we’re here to help. Contact us at Project Landscape to schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to create an outdoor space that you’ll love and enjoy for years to come.

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