Soft Landscaping
The Fabric of Your Landscape...
'Softscape', or 'soft landscape', comprises the incorporation of plants in landscape design and generally includes bulbs, herbaceous floral plants, climbers, shrubs, hedges and trees. Soft landscape design in conjunction with hard landscape elements, give the landscape its character, creating a sense of place and scale. Plant selection in commercial design, has to be considered in line with water demand, foundation impacts, maintenance and cost, whilst also directly correlating with the style of the design, whether contemporary, formal or traditional. Each plant species can be used in a variety of settings, but having an extensive knowledge of the individual plant requirements is essential for a successful soft landscape scheme and planting design.
Usually the most intensive part of a landscape, the planted element, is also the most versatile. Plants can be chosen for their colour, size, hardiness, flowering time, scent, texture, edibility and origin (being native or exotic). Combining indigenous plants with the vernacular hardscape elements can create a landscape that is visually and physically in harmony with its surroundings. Conversely they can contrast with each other and provide exciting stimulation to the senses.
ELD prepare detailed planting designs in much the same way as hard landscape plans are detailed; to provide clients and contractors with a clear picture of exactly what soft landscape elements are proposed; the quantities, sizes and density of planting; where they are to be installed and what maintenance is required. When the detailed planting design is combined with the hardscape design, the landscape design package is complete.
We undertake work throughout East Anglia including the counties of Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire. Work further afield may also be considered.
Soft Landscape Design - please contact us to discuss your requirements.
