The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) has determined that landscape consumers prefer sustainable, tech-friendly design elements in their outdoor living spaces, based on the results of the 2017 Residential Landscape Architecture Trends Survey.
Of the 817 landscape architects who responded to the survey, 82.31% reported that native or adapted drought tolerant plants would be a high-demand project this year, followed by native plants at 81.60% and low-maintenance landscapes at 79.25%. More than half of the top ten projects expected this year involved energy-saving, sustainable, or environmentally conscious outdoor additions, including gardens, irrigation, permeable paving and reduced lawn area.
For the first time ever, wireless/Internet connection also made the list, coming in ninth with 70.77% of respondents reporting high consumer demand for the project.
“The fact that more consumers want outdoor wireless access shows that they want expanded options for remaining connected to their devices,” says Nancy C. Somerville, executive vice president and CEO of ASLA. “Well-designed residential landscapes provide social interaction, enjoyment of nature, and physical activity, while also reducing water use and stormwater runoff. Landscape architects are pros at creating sustainable outdoor spaces that reflect their clients’ dreams for relaxation and meaningful activity.”
The top outdoor design element reported in the survey was fire pits and fireplaces, at 71.51%. Permeable paving (76.31%) and reduced lawn area (72.66%) were the highest-rated sustainable features after drought-resistant plants. Other top landscape and garden elements were:--native plants
--low-maintenance landscapes
--pergolas
--decks
--sport courts
--spa features
