Landscape design is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging each year. There are several exciting landscape design trends that are set to make a big impact in 2023. At Redwood Land Design, we help Raleigh area homeowners with all their residential landscape design needs. Our landscaping experts are here to share some of the most prominent landscape design trends for 2023 and how you can incorporate them into your own outdoor spaces.

Hardscaping 

Hardscaping is the use of hard materials such as concrete, stone, and wood to create permanent outdoor features such as patios, retaining walls, and walkways. In recent years, there has been a growing trend in the use of exciting hardscape designs for homeowners, and 2023 will see this trend continue to evolve.

Exciting hardscape designs are all about creating visually stunning and functional outdoor living spaces that enhance the beauty and functionality of your home. This trend emphasizes the use of natural materials, creative designs, and unique features to create a one-of-a-kind outdoor space.

Natural Stone Hardscaping

One popular hardscape trend is the use of natural stone to create patios, walkways, and retaining walls. Natural stone comes in a variety of colors and textures, making it a versatile material for creating unique and visually striking designs. It is also a durable material that can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy foot traffic.

Wooden Hardscaping

Another popular hardscaping trend is the use of wood to create decks, pergolas, and other outdoor structures. Wood is a warm and inviting material that can add a natural, organic feel to your outdoor space. It can also be used to create shade and privacy, making your outdoor living area more comfortable and enjoyable.

Unique Hardscaping Features

Finally, exciting hardscape designs often incorporate creative features such as water features, fire pits, and outdoor lighting. Water features such as fountains and ponds can add a soothing and tranquil element to your outdoor space. Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while outdoor lighting can extend the use of your outdoor living space into the evening hours.

Colorful Plantings

Vibrant, colorful plantings are also becoming more popular in landscape design. In 2023, we can expect to see a focus on using bright colors and interesting textures to create eye-catching landscapes. It’s important to choose plants that are well-suited to your local climate and growing conditions, to ensure that they thrive and continue to look beautiful year after year.

When considering popular plants, bushes, and trees for Raleigh landscaping, it’s important to look at varieties that can hold up to the warm and humid climate. This climate is well-suited to a variety of plant, bush, and tree species. 

Here are some popular options for Raleigh landscaping:

• Crape Myrtle: This is a classic Raleigh tree that produces stunning flowers in shades of pink, red, white, and purple. Crape Myrtles are easy to care for and can be pruned to different sizes and shapes.
• Azaleas: These vibrant and colorful bushes produce blooms in shades of pink, red, white, and purple. Azaleas thrive in Raleigh’s acidic soil and humid climate.
• Sweetbay Magnolia: This is a popular Raleigh tree that produces fragrant white flowers in the summer. Sweetbay Magnolias are drought-tolerant and can grow up to 30 feet tall.
• Lantana: This is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that produces clusters of flowers in shades of red, orange, pink, and yellow. Lantana is a great option for adding color to Raleigh landscapes.
• Dwarf Yaupon Holly: This is a small, evergreen shrub that produces berries and can be pruned into a variety of shapes. Dwarf Yaupon Holly is drought-tolerant and can be used as a border or accent plant in Raleigh landscapes.
• Eastern Redbud: This is a popular Raleigh tree that produces pink or purple flowers in the spring. Eastern Redbuds are adaptable to a variety of soil types and can grow up to 30 feet tall.
• Gardenia: This is a fragrant and beautiful shrub that produces white or yellow flowers. Gardenias require some care and attention but are well worth the effort for their stunning blooms and sweet fragrance.

These are just a few of the many plant, bush, and tree options that are popular for Raleigh landscaping. Consult with a professional landscape design expert to determine the best options for your specific property.

Drainage Solutions

Yard drainage solutions are an important, but often overlooked, aspect of landscaping that involves managing the flow of water on your property. Proper yard drainage is essential for maintaining a healthy and functional landscape, preventing water damage to your home, and ensuring the safety of your outdoor spaces. While it may not seem to be as exciting as planning hardscapes, lighting or water features, or other aesthetically pleasing aspects of landscape design, in order to achieve the beautiful results of other landscaping features yard drainage is essential. 

Identifying Areas for Drainage

The first step in yard drainage is to identify areas where water tends to collect or pool. This could include low spots in your lawn, areas near the foundation of your home, or spots where water runoff from your roof or driveway accumulates. Once these areas have been identified, a variety of drainage solutions can be implemented.

French Drain System

One common solution is to install a French drain system. This involves digging a trench and filling it with gravel or rock, which is then covered with a permeable fabric. The trench is then covered with soil, allowing water to seep into the gravel and drain away from the area. French drains can be used to redirect water away from low spots in your lawn or to prevent water from collecting near the foundation of your home.

Dry Wall Solution

Another common drainage solution is to install a dry well. A dry well is a hole filled with gravel or rock that allows water to drain into the ground. This solution is often used in areas where water tends to collect, such as near the bottom of a sloping lawn or in a low-lying area. Dry wells can also be used to collect and store rainwater for later use.

Other Drainage Trends

In addition to these solutions, other yard drainage techniques include grading the land to create a slope away from the foundation of your home, installing gutters and downspouts to direct water away from your home, and creating rain gardens to collect and filter water runoff. Overall, proper yard drainage is essential for maintaining a healthy and functional landscape. By identifying problem areas and implementing effective drainage solutions, you can protect your home, prevent water damage, and enjoy a beautiful and functional outdoor space. Consult with a professional landscaper to determine the best drainage solutions for your specific property and needs.

Contact Our Landscape Design Team for Your Raleigh Home Today! 

Landscape design trends for 2023 are all about creating beautiful, functional, and sustainable outdoor spaces. By incorporating these trends into your own landscape design plans, you can create a backyard oasis that you’ll love to spend time in. Whether you’re looking to create an outdoor living room, incorporate native plants, or add a water feature, there are plenty of ways to make your outdoor spaces look and feel amazing in 2023 and beyond.

At Redwood Land Design, our residential landscaping specialists believe that your outdoor spaces should be an extension of your home, a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the beauty of nature. Let us help you transform your outdoor spaces into a stunning, functional oasis that you’ll love to spend time in. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our landscaping services in Raleigh and the surrounding areas by calling (919) 817-0087 or filling out the contact form below to get started.