Springtime in Michigan makes us all want to stay outside and enjoy the nice weather. The National Association of Landscape Professionals listed landscape design trends they predict for 2016.

The trends we see for the 2016 season include:

1. Fully customized outdoor living spaces. Backyard landscapes and indoor living become one. Homeowners want the option to entertain and enjoy both their indoor and outdoor spaces. In Michigan, our warm weather doesn’t last forever. Create a beautiful patio or deck, with sun-proof cushioned alfresco dining sets and fire pits… you’ll be able to sprawl out and enjoy your own private sanctuary.
    
2. Lighted and high-tech landscapes. To really enjoy your outdoor living room during the night equipping the space is a necessity. Creative and functional lighting and technological enhancements are a definite trend for 2016. Dramatic and boldly colored lights, twinkling accent lighting in walkways, backyard Wi-Fi and TV installations are just some of the ways gardens are getting tech-savvy.
    
3. Eco-friendly and native gardens. “Naturescaping” – selecting and growing native plants to attract birds, insects and wildlife – is a fast-growing trend.  There is great interest in creating a landscape that is environmentally conscious. Busy homeowners seek simply beautiful landscapes that are easy to maintain and innately managed water runoff. Using low-maintenance perennial native plants and solar-powered lighting or energy-efficient LED lights are ways landscapes will go green this year.
    
4. Edible landscapes. Homeowners also want gardens that are fully natural and organic. With this comes another trend: edible landscapes. Planting fresh herbs, fruits and vegetables allow you to cook right from your backyard. A variety of edible plants gives your landscape texture and color.
    
5. Water features. Water and other non-plant features, including sculptures and pottery, are becoming focal points in landscapes. The techniques used to manage storm water will also be a trend we see in 2016.  Rain barrels, rain gardens and stone retaining walls add great dimension to lush landscapes, while also serving an important purpose of collecting, cleaning or stopping water.
6. Soothing hues. Pantone’s Colors of the Year for 2016 – Rose Quartz and Serenity -are expected to be seen everywhere. The soft, nature-inspired pink and blue hues will be seen blooming in gardens this year; as heritage rose bushes, Catherine Woodbury daylilies, Angelique tulips, blue lace delphinium, French hydrangea, and others.

Bringing functionality and beautiful design together can easily be accomplished when you consult with English Gardens. English Gardens professional landscape designers and installation crews will make the most of your yard and garden to enhance the year-round enjoyment of your outdoor living area. Click here for our store locations and hours. Click here to read more about our Landscape Company and to receive a consultation from one of the experts!