Real estate is all about curb appeal, and eye-catching curb appeal relies not only on architectural design – but a beautiful landscape. In Florida, we have a unique approach to landscape design. After all, our plants must be able to withstand months of blazing heat and torrential rainstorms, followed by drought conditions. It is also true that our yards don’t only offer aesthetic appeal, but they are an extension of our living spaces. Here in Sarasota, creative landscapes are part and parcel of a home’s overall beauty, elegance, and luxury. Here are some of our best recommendations to cultivate the most attractive property in your neighborhood.
Modern Landscapes and Cutting-Edge Design
Recent trends in contemporary tropical landscaping seamlessly integrate indoor living areas with outdoor space. Landscaping for these properties is typically clean and uncomplicated, with an emphasis on water features, hardscaping, and entertainment viewed through towering glass walls and windows. Life in balmy Sarasota lends itself beautifully to sophisticated, tropical yet modern landscapes that merge effortlessly with the architectural design of the home.
Tropical designs are green and lush with pops of vibrant color, imitating the look of a rainforest but more controlled. A diversity of plants may live in close proximity, overlapping exotic and colorful flowers that require little maintenance and help butterflies, birds, and small animals to thrive.
Water Features in Landscape Design
Water is a part of the ethos of Sarasota, it is everywhere and a part of our DNA. Luxury properties may choose to add a koi pond, or a waterfall next to their pool for both the sights and sounds of water. Designing a wide, shallow pool around the perimeter of the home can provide a soothing aesthetic, and sculptural fountains – whether in the middle of a circular driveway or in the backyard – present unmatched elegance.
Ponds and fountains also provide an oasis for birds, bees, and butterflies seeking respite from the heat. Having a mechanism to keep the water moving and recycling is important to keep it from becoming stagnant and growing algae, which can attract mosquitos.
Walkways, Gardens, and Sustenance
If your home has a large property, consider breaking up the yard into functional areas – a sitting area under an oak tree, a dock on the river, and a large gazebo surrounded by flowers that can be connected with flagstone walkways lined with tropical flowers and solar illumination for the evening. If you prefer a more wide-open aesthetic, simply line the perimeter of the yard with tropical flowers and trees and add a pavilion for shade.
One of our favorite ways to design a lush South Florida landscape while considering a sustainable ideal is to plant tropical fruit trees. They are beautiful, create luxurious greenery and shade, and provide delicious fresh fruit year-round. Papayas, mangoes, bananas, citrus, avocado, and starfruit all grow easily in our climate – but only add these trees if you enjoy cultivating and maintaining them. Too much fruit rotting on the ground can attract rodents and insects.
Native Plants in Landscape Design
One of the most important considerations in choosing your plants and flowers is that they are native to this area. Invasive plants are harmful to our native vegetation and animal life, and may not survive well in our challenging climate. Working with a professional Sarasota landscape architect will ensure that you only install plants and trees that are best for our environment and will grow best in our growing zone. Lists of appropriate Florida native plants can be found here.
JTL Studios designs and builds custom, innovative, and beautiful Sarasota homes for our clients. But we don’t stop at the back door – we also work with you to create a striking landscape design to match your house. Call today for more information on how to get started.
