1. Applying the Principles of Art to the Landscape
Ms. Gripshover
Landscaping
Unit 8

2. Our Objectives Describe the basic principles of art.
Explain how to use the principles of art in landscaping.
Design two planting beds that demonstrate the principles of design.
Our Objectives

3. What are the basic principles of art?
Art appeals to visual senses
Pleasing to eye
Affect emotions
The basic elements used are (save room next to each):
Accent
Balance
Color
Form
Repetition
Scale
Texture
Variety
What are the basic principles of art?

4. The Basic Principles Defined
Accent- grabs viewer’s eye, something that stands out
Balance- stability or equilibrium to design, 2 types:
Symmetrical a.k.a formal- same on both sides
Asymmetrical a.k.a informal- not the same on both sides
Color- high visual impact, created by the absorption and reflection of light
Warm colors are visually stimulating and cheerful
Cool colors are restful and relaxing
Form- the outline or shape of an object
The Basic Principles Defined

5. The Basic Principles Defined (cont.)
Repetition- repeating of certain characteristics throughout design, simplifies and unifies composition
Scale- in proportion to its surrounds, not too large or small
Texture- appearance of a component ex: light or heavy, coarse or fine
Variety- a change or break from the norm
The Basic Principles Defined (cont.)

6. The design looks informal based on the placing of the plantings.
Balance
The design is very cheerful.
Color
The blue spruce in the design is very attractive and eye grabbing.
Accent
I like the use of the different lilies and daffodils.
Variety
The use of the hosta plants throughout is very attractive.
Repetition
The different leaves give a varying look throughout the landscape.
Texture
What principle is it?

7. How are the principles of art used in landscaping?
Landscape design is an art as well as a science
Observe physical features of a plant such as shape, texture, etc.
Decide how to group plants together in the most physically attractive way that is also balanced
How are the principles of art used in landscaping?

8. How are the principles of art used in landscaping? (cont.)
Plants have a variety of colors, shapes, and texture
Picking one with striking features and thin unlike specimens around it can create an accent
Common forms of plants are:
Round
Weeping
Oval
Pyramidal
Columnar
Size and style of a home can help designer create balance and scale in the landscape
Large trees can make home appear smaller and visa versa
Home owner will help decide whether the design should be symmetrical or asymmetrical
Repeating shapes, colors, textures, etc. throughout design will be visually appealing however variety is important
How are the principles of art used in landscaping? (cont.)

9. Planting beds should include trees, shrubs, flowers, and groundcovers
They can be at the corner or can form a line
Consider characteristics of plant and function of the planting
Corner planting- ties the house to the foundation, softens harsh vertical lines at corners of home
Should not grow more than 2/3 as tall as the house
Rounded plants work well
Line planting- can block an unsightly view or frame a view
Should follow curve of bed lines
Small plants in front, taller in back
How would you design a planting bed to demonstrate the principle of design?