Beginners Guide to Creating a landscape design for your new home
- Tammy Johnson
- Jun 22
- 4 min read
Beginner’s Guide to Creating a Landscape Design for Your New Home
Creating your own landscape design can be one of the most exciting and rewarding parts of moving into a new home. It’s your opportunity to shape the outdoor space into something that’s not only beautiful, but functional and your own. Whether you envision a lush garden, a modern patio, or a family-friendly backyard, it all starts with a solid plan.
But is this something you have to employ a landscape designer to come in and do or is it something you can realistically have a go at doing yourself?
The good news, and answer to that is, no you don’t have to get professionals in, there’s no good reason why (providing you take the time and do your research) you can’t have a go at doing it yourself.
I’ve put together a simple guide to help you get started, including some essential tips about soil quality and the influence of cardinal references (north, south, east, and west).
Step 1: Assess the Space
Before you start sketching ideas or planting flowers, take time to study your yard. Walk around and observe:
The size and shape of your yard.
Natural features like slopes, trees, or existing hardscapes.
Drainage patterns, where does water collect or flow?
Sun and shade exposure at different times of day.
Make a rough map or diagram of your space. This will be the foundation of your design.
Step 2: Understand Your Soil
Soil quality can make or break your landscape. Healthy soil supports strong roots, good drainage, and vibrant plant life.
What to check:
Texture: Is it sandy, loamy, or clay-heavy?
Drainage: Does water sit on top or soak in quickly?
pH level: Is your soil more acidic or alkaline?
You can buy a simple soil test kit from a garden centre or have it professionally tested. Based on the results, you may need to improve your soil with compost, gypsum, sulphur, lime or other amendments before planting.
Step 3: Consider the Cardinal Directions
Cardinal orientation plays a crucial role in landscape design, it determines sunlight, wind patterns, and even the microclimates in your yard.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
North-facing areas tend to get the most sunlight, ideal for veggie gardens or anything you’d like to plant that prefers full sun. It’s also the side of your home you would have your solar panels for a solar water feature.
South-facing areas receive the least sunlight, they tend to be the best side of your home to plant shade loving plants.
East-facing spots get cool morning sun, perfect for breakfast patios or delicate plants that can’t handle intense heat.
West-facing areas get hot afternoon sun, choose heat-tolerant plants and consider shade structures like pergolas or large shade trees.
Use this information to place plants and features in the best spots for their needs and comfort.
Step 4: Define Your Needs and Style
Think about how you’ll use the space. Ask yourself:
Do you want an outdoor entertaining area?
Need a safe play zone for kids or pets?
Dreaming of a vegetable garden, flower beds, or a water feature?
Also, consider your personal style. Are you drawn to a minimalist, modern look or a more natural, cottage-style garden? Let this guide your plant choices and materials.
Step 5: Choose Plants and Materials Wisely
Once you understand your site, soil, and goals, you can choose plants and materials that fit. Aim for a mix of:
Trees and shrubs for structure, height and shelter.
Perennials and annuals for colour and texture.
Hardscapes like pavers, gravel, or decking for walkways and patios.
Be sure to select native or climate-appropriate plants, they’ll thrive with less maintenance and water.
Step 6: Sketch Your Design
Now comes the fun part, putting it all together. Use your base map to draw in features, planting zones, and pathways. Keep proportions in mind, and don’t overcrowd. White space is just as important in a garden as in interior design.
Pro tip: Plan for year-round interest by including evergreen plants, varying bloom times, and the likes of ornamental grasses.
Step 7: Build in Phases
You don’t have to do it all at once. Landscaping can be an ongoing project. Prioritise the essentials (like pathways, lawn areas, or soil prep), and add details (like flower beds, seating areas, or lighting) over time.
Creating your own landscape design is nothing to be afraid of, it should be exciting and fun, a blend of art, science, and a little bit of trial and error. By understanding your land, considering sunlight and soil, and planning for your personal needs, you can build a yard that grows with you and your family.
The best part? Every step you take makes your house feel more like home, from the first flower to the last paving stone.
Happy Gardening 😘🪴
Need some help designing a landscape layout or plant list for your home? I can help with that too. Get in touch with me now, I'll look forward to hearing from you!
I've included a downloadable checklist for you print off.
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