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Understanding the Spectrum of Sustainable Landscape Design: Finding the Right Look for You

Updated: Feb 14

When considering sustainable landscape design, you don’t have to choose between function and style. Sustainable landscapes can cater to a wide range of aesthetics—from clean, highly manicured designs to naturalistic, pollinator-friendly gardens. Whether you live in a home governed by strict HOA requirements or are looking to attract more bees and butterflies, there’s a sustainable solution that fits your preferences and needs.


The Spectrum of Sustainable Landscape Design

Sustainable landscape designs range from legible, organized layouts with straight lines and polished appearances to lush, natural gardens. While you may assume sustainable landscaping always leans toward the naturalistic end of the spectrum, it’s entirely possible to achieve a more formal look without sacrificing ecological benefits.


  • Manicured & Polished: Think straight edges, neatly pruned hedges, and uniformity. This approach can incorporate sustainable elements like durable native plants, which require minimal watering and maintenance, and permeable hardscape materials for stormwater management.  

  • Naturalistic & Wild: At the other end, this design style embraces the natural flow of native plants and pollinator gardens. This look is ideal for those who prioritize habitat creation and biodiversity, with options like sedges for water management or wildflowers for visual vibrancy.  

  • In-between Options: Most landscapes fall somewhere in the middle, balancing client preferences with functional needs. For example, using evergreens for privacy while incorporating rain gardens to manage water issues can blend a polished look with ecological value.

Landscapes Customized to Your Needs

Every property is unique, and creating a landscape that fits your needs involves careful consideration of the following:

  1. Client preferences and HOA requirements: We tailor designs to your aesthetic goals while adhering to any HOA guidelines for your neighborhood.

  2. Site-specific issues or concerns: From managing drainage issues to optimizing sunlight, our sustainable designs address your property’s challenges effectively.

  3. Desired functions: Whether you’re looking to enhance privacy, support pollinators, or reduce maintenance, our designs integrate features that align with your goals.


The Role of Hardscape in Landscape Design

Hardscape is a vital component of any sustainable landscape, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. Whether it’s managing water flow, creating focal points, or adding contrast and structure, hardscape elements enhance the overall design. Examples include patios, walkways, and retaining walls made from sustainable materials that complement the landscape. By blending these structural elements with plantings, we create cohesive, visually striking outdoor spaces.


Matching Design to Your Home Style

A sustainable landscape doesn’t just cater to environmental needs—it complements the architecture and period of your home. Whether your house is a modern build, a Craftsman, or a historic Victorian, landscape design can reflect its style while promoting sustainability. Hardscape choices also play a critical role, ranging from clean square pavers to natural flagstone walkways, ensuring your outdoor space feels cohesive and intentional.


Why Roots Wild Stands Out

Unlike other landscape companies that often rely on cookie-cutter designs and cheaper, less sustainable materials, we prioritize customization and quality. Many companies focus on mass production, using the same plants and materials across multiple projects to cut costs. This approach often results in landscapes that require frequent replacements or lack durability. These landscapes also lack character and often do not match the beauty and balance you've created inside your home.


At Roots Wild, we take a different approach. Our designs include:

  • Comprehensive Handcrafted Design: We carefully consider your home’s style, topography, and specific needs to create a cohesive and intentional design sketched by hand.  

  • Diverse, Abundant Plant Selection: Our designs showcase up to 10 times more plant species than conventional landscape competitors, resulting in a vibrant, eco-friendly landscape. We incorporate plants that support pollinators, making your space functional for wildlife and visually appealing.

  • Site-specific Customization: Sustainable design is as much about solving problems as it is about creating beauty. We match plants to your property’s unique conditions, ensuring longevity and reduced maintenance.  

  • Durable Materials: Using sustainable plants and materials that withstand time and the elements, we aim to do it right the first time.  

  • Long-Lasting Value: Our landscapes are designed to outlive the time you’ll spend in your home, offering enduring beauty and function for decades.


Whether you prefer a tidy, structured look or a more organic, naturalistic feel, sustainable landscaping can meet your goals while enhancing the environment. 


At Roots Wild, we pride ourselves on creating landscapes that are durable, sustainable, and tailored to your vision. With an extensive selection of plant species and sustainable materials, we create an intentional design to ensure your landscape will thrive for decades while reflecting your style.


Ready to explore the possibilities? Contact us to schedule a consultation today!

 
 
 
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Serving West Michigan in 

Grand Rapids and the Lakeshore

mailing address:

P.O. Box 4

West Olive, MI 49460

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