What is a focal point and why do I need one? These are a few of the basic questions I answer as a landscape designer. A focal point should draw your eye to a particular spot in the garden’s design. You can draw attention to your front entry and lead visitors up the walkway with a carefully selected focal point. Remember the cardinal rule, ‘only one focal point per outdoor room’.
Although yard gnomes are cute, too many small items scattered across a garden give a cluttered effect. Your eye has no place to rest and the end result is a hodgepodge look. A well placed focal point, whether it is a specimen Japanese Maple, an elegant garden statue or a fountain, needs to stand center stage in the design.
What to use as a focal point? The options are endless. I encourage clients to select a piece that ties to the architecture and scale of their home but also make it personal. Live near the water or wish you did? These verde green herons look very natural standing among the miscanthus grass. They serve double duty to accent the front entry and can be used as fountains.
Fountains create an instant focal point in any landscape. Placement is very important. The sound of the falling water is restful and relaxing, so place fountains where they can both be seen and heard. The ‘babbling brook’ effect of fountains can also screen unwanted noise and help create your own backyard oasis.
Seasonal color combinations create a dramatic focal point. The bright orange and lemon yellow stripe of Crotons give a punch of tropical color. Combine with cascading Lantana and ‘Bengal Tiger’ Cannas for a riot of summer color. This combination works well in containers, smaller gardens or as mass plantings in larger spaces.
Have a wonderful view or maybe your neighbors do? You can ‘borrow a view’ by framing it with an arbor or arch way. Tying your landscape to the surrounding area gives your space a grander feel and immediately expands the area.
Gazebo to gazing ball, birdbath to beach view whatever you chose as your focal point make it an integral part of the design not an after thought. |
