Naturalized Living Spaces by Ahronian Landscaping and Design

The Latest Trends in Landscaping and Design for Homes and Gardens

By Mark Ahronian (M.C.H) Mass Certified Horticulturist

Since most of the flat land in Massachusetts has been developed, designing and building terraced gardens has been a popular answer in designing more functional garden spaces. By using various elements of building materials, we have been able to manipulate yard space by segregating each area of the the property for a variety of needs.

The traditional landscape design of the 1960s and 70s has changed from a ring of plants around the foundation to what we are designing and implementing today — which is more along the lines of cultured courtyards and terraces with stone walls and water features built in. These multilayered spaces provide areas where people can relax, entertain and enjoy the outdoors without leaving their homes.

Most people are starting to get away from large expanses of lawn that they are not using as it can be a waste of water, not to mention a maintenance issue. Smaller more manageable lawn space is becoming more desirable, leaving the rest of the property as a buffer of trees and shrubs for wildlife and for privacy. Once the roots of trees and shrubs get established they for the most part fend for themselves nicely.

Proper landscaping can help to conserve energy, define spaces, screen objectionable views, control pedestrian traffic, assist with climate control, muffle noise, help purify air, and of course, beautify the neighborhood.

For additional information on plantings for your home, visit Massachusetts Nurseryman's Association and the Online Gardening Library. Or if you have a question or problem you can't find a solution too, feel free to ask one of the contact the Ahronian Design and Landscaping Experts.