Landscape design trends are ever evolving, and as we approach 2024 homeowners, architects and landscape professionals are eager to incorporate new & innovative elements into their outdoor spaces. One of the exciting development in landscape design is the emergence of unconventional materials, developing smart technology as well as the reemergence of breeze blocks. In this blog post, we’ll explore how these elements are shaping the landscape design trends for 2024 and how you can incorporate them into your outdoor projects.
Outdoor Art Installations: Artistry in the garden
Incorporating art into landscape design is an emerging trend for 2024. Whether it is sculptures, mosaics or murals, art adds a unique and personal touch to your outdoor environment. Art installations can serve as focal points, conversation starters or simple as aesthetically pleasing elements that enhance the beauty of the space.
Vertical Gardens & Living Walls
As outdoor spaces become more limited in urban areas, vertical gardens and living walls have emerged as a creative solution. These structures can include everything from vertical herb gardens to elaborate living walls adorned with a variety of plants. Vertical gardens not only look stunning but also provide natural insulation and improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. This trend offers a unique way to integrate nature into small or unconventional spaces, creating a beautiful and healthy environment in the process.
Images from Vertical Gardens Australia
Breeze Blocks : The versatile dividers
Breeze blocks, also known as screen blocks or architectural blocks are hollow blocks typically made out of concrete with decorative cut out patterns. Historically popular in mid-century modern architecture, they are making a strong comeback in 2024 as versatile and eye-catching additions to landscape designs.
These blocks offer several advantages in landscape design
- Privacy: Breeze blocks can be used as decorative screens to create private areas in your garden or patio while still allowing light and air to pass through
- Visual Interest: The geometric and intricate designs of breeze blocks add visual interest and a touch of nostalgia to modern outdoor spaces
- Plant Support: Use breeze blocks as a unique foundation for climbing plants and vines to create a green wall effect
To incorporate breeze blocks into your landscape design, consider using them as retaining walls, decorative dividers or even as garden art. Their patterns,textures & colours can be customized to match your design preferences adding a unique touch to your outdoor space.
Jonite Breeze Blocks
Unlike traditional concrete breeze blocks, Jonite Breeze Blocks are a game changer in the architectural world, providing enhanced durability, unmatched versatility and unparallelled aesthetics. Made from Jonite’s composite stone- a blend of recycled aggregates and crushed natural stone such as granite and sandstone- these architectural breeze blocks outperform conventional concrete in strength and longevity, all white significantly reducing water and heat absorption.
Whereas concrete blocks often have one dimentional aesthetic, Jonite Breeze Blocks offer a myriad of colours, finishes and designs. This wide colour range is a testament to the use of natural stones, contributing to the blocks’ ability to blend into various architectural styles and adding a touch of sophistication to any design.
Intentional Outdoor Entertainment Areas
Outdoor areas as seen on The Block. Images from The Block Shop
Pollinator Gardens
In a bid to support declining bee & butterfly populations, pollinator gardens are on the rise. These gardens feature an array of nectar-rich plants, native species and specific habitats to attract and sustain pollinators contributing to biodiversity and a healthier ecosystem
Image from Fine Gardening
Image from Architectural Digest
Low Maintenance Landscaping: Beauty with Ease
In our fast paced world, many homeowners are seeking low maintenance landscaping options. This trend involves using easy to care for plants, hardscapes that require minimal upkeep and materials that resist wear & tear. Artificial turf has become a popular choice, offering the look of lush grass without the need for constant mowing and watering. Gravel as a low maintenance ground cover reduced the need for weeding and is perfect for modern and minimalist landscapes. Furthermore, low maintenance plant sections include species that require minimal watering and pruning. These choices not only save time and effort but also create a serene and welcoming outdoor environment.
Native Wildlife habitats
Landscapes are becoming more wildlife friendly with the inclusion of birdhouses, bat boxes and insect hotels. These features attract a variety of beneficial creatures promoting natural pest control and biodiversity.
sustainable landscaping : a greener future
In 2024, sustainable landscaping practices continue to gain traction. This trend involves native plants, drought resistant species and environmentally friendly materials. Rain gardens, green roofs and xeriscaping (landscaping designed to reduce or eliminate the nee for irrigation) are becoming popular. This trend not only conserves resources but also attracts wildlife and promotes biodiversity in your outdoor space.
Rain gardens are carefully designed to capture and manage rainwater to prevent runoff and soil erosion. They not only conserve water but also attract wildlife contributing to the promotion of biodiversity in your very own backyard. Green roofs, covered in vegetation, provide insulation and help reduce energy consumption, making them both practical and visually appealing. Xeriscaping, a landscaping technique designed to minimize the need for irrigation, incorporates drought tolerant plants and materials that thrive in arid conditions. These eco conscious approaches not only conserve precious resources but also reduce maintenance efforts.
Image from nbg landscapes: Xeriscaping
Image from RAA architects
Decorative Drainage Grates
Decorative grates are emerging as a trend in landscape design. Artful & functional; the grates offer a dual purpose, combining efficient water management with aesthetic appeal. No longer mere utilitarian features, decorative grates have evolved to become statement pieces in outdoor spaces enhancing overall visual alure whilst managing water flow.
Landscape designers are integrating intricate designs and materials into their projects showcasing how decorative grates can elevate gardens, patios, walkways adding a touch of artistry to functional drainage solutions.
Recycled/Reclaimed Materials
Sustainability remains a strong focus with more homeowners and designers choosing recycled and reclaimed materials for landscaping projects. This includes reclaimed wood, recycled plastic and repurposed metal which adds character to any outdoor space
Image from Beachwood
Smart Garden Technology: The Digital Green Thumb
As technology continues to advance, integrating smart garden technology is a growing trend. Automated irrigation systems, weather sensors & smartphone controlled lighting are becoming common. These technologies help manage your garden more efficiently whilst conserving resources.
Automated irrigation systems ensure plants receive the right amount of water at the right times reducing water waste and preventing overwatering. Weather sensors adjust your irrigation schedule based on real time weather conditions, further saving resources. Embracing smart garden technology not only ensures your garden management is more efficient but also brings a touch of modernity to your landscape design.
Image from Gardena
Multi Functional Furniture : Adaptable Alfresco Living
Maximizing the use of outdoor space means incorporating furniture that serves multiple purposes. In 2024, multi-functional furniture is a key trend. Examples include benches with built in storage, coffee tables that convert into dining tables and modular seating arrangements to adapt to different occasions. It practical & space saving that adds versatility to your outdoor space.
Multifunctional fire pit from Mororo
Modular Pillow Stack from Temple & Webster
Slot Drains: Sleek & Efficient
Key benefits of slot drain in landscape design:
- Minimalistic Design: Slot drains feature a discrete, narrow channel that blends seamlessly into hardscapes & pavers
- Improved Drainage: These drains effectively capture and redirect rainwater, preventing standing water & potential damage to your landscape
Whether you are designing a contemporary courtyard, a pool deck or a driveway, incorporating slot drains can enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your landscape.
Edible Landscapes/Foodscaping
Homeowners are opting for landscapes that not only look good but also provide sustenance. Edible landscapes incorporate fruit, vegetables & herbs into the design offering fresh produce right from the garden.
Image from Morning Chores: Edible Landscaping
Colour Blocked Planting
This trend involves grouping plants with similar colours to create visually striking, monochromatic sections in the garden. It’s a bold & artistic way to infuse landscapes with vivid hues.
Image from Blooming Backyard: How to Plant a Rainbow Garden
Image from Kings: Adding Colour to Your Garden