Pollinator Gardens Part 1: Why Help the Birds and Bees with Your Backyard Plantings?

This is a two-part blog discussing pollinator gardens. Part 1 covers why you should have a pollinator garden.

If you love flowers, then it is important to create a sustainable place for pollinating ‘friends’. Think back to your grade school days when you learned about pollinating. If it’s been a while, it might seem a little fuzzy. Don’t worry I’ll share some of the important pollinator information you’ll need when considering a pollinator garden.

Pollinator Facts

Here are some interesting and important facts on pollinators. Did you know??

·       Over 75% of all flowering plants, including those that grow fruits and vegetables, are dependent on animal pollinators.

·       While there are many factors to pollination, pollinators are one of the biggest components to pollinating flowers.

·       Honeybees are not the only pollinators. Other pollinators include, but are not limited too:

o   Butterflies

o   Hummingbirds

o   Moths

o   Beetles

o   Bats

o   Wasps

o   Flies

·       Pollinators are on the decline due to many environmental factors, such as habitat loss and pesticides.

·       Over 85% of all food-related crops need pollinators for their survival.

Benefits of Pollinator Gardens

It is important to have flowers and plants that you love. However, you can choose beautiful plants that also help increase the pollinator population.  

There are so many benefits to selecting a pollinator garden. A few are:

·       Pollination among your plants

·       Helping the environment

·       Saving pollinators

·       Creates a natural and healthy space in your backyard

If you are not a fan of buzzing around you while relaxing your morning coffee or evening glass of wine, then you can still have a pollinator garden and enjoy your backyard at the same time. Two great ways to get around that are:

1.       Screened-in Porch

2.       Placement of the Pollinator Garden

Dreaming up Your Very Own Backyard Oasis?

Ready to start creating your own pollinator garden or reimagine your backyard to include one? Call Hawkins Landscape Architecture today at 336-848-7164 to get started! At Hawkins Landscape Architecture, I always work closely with every client to create their dream backyard. Additionally, my 3D landscape design allows clients to actually see what the new space will look like on their property before construction begins.

Head over and like my Instagram page for photos and inspiration on all things outdoor living and landscaping!

Don’t miss next week’s part two blog on plants to include in your pollinator garden!

Project Highlight Part 2: Backyard Oasis for Post-pandemic Enjoyment

This is a two-part blog discussing the different outdoor living elements of this project. If you missed last week’s part one, click here.

I’m absolutely in love with this outdoor living project, which Southern Exposure Landscape Management* installed. It incorporates so many popular outdoor living design elements that are ideal for total backyard enjoyment.

In this second part, I’ll share about their new firepit, plantings, and outdoor lighting.

Enjoy and Stay Warm Around an Open Firepit

Whether it is for roasting marshmallows, staying warm on a cool fall North Carolina evening, or sitting and watching mesmerizing flames, a firepit provides all those opportunities for families.

When combined with a relaxing seating area, like in this project, a fire pit is a great setting for enjoying family time or entertaining friends. Can you imagine sipping a glass of wine while listening to the crackling fire?

This firepit has a boulder border and pea gravel floor. Both materials create a quaint and stunning fire pit area. There is an abundance of materials available to build fire pits. So, if this look doesn’t match your backyard, then do not worry…  at Hawkins Landscape Architecture we partner closely with all clients to ensure they get the outdoor oasis they are dreaming of building.

What is a Backyard Oasis without Plants?

Choosing the right plants for your backyard oasis is equally as important as choosing the right outdoor living elements! You want plants that you love looking at and match the feel and ambiance of your yard and house.

For this project, it included all new plantings. A few plants selected for this backyard project include:

·       Distylium Vintage Jade

·       Cypress Dwarf Hinoki

·       Butterfly Bush Lo and Behold

·       Camellia Sasanqua

The sky really is the limit when it comes to picking plants for your outdoor living space. We will work closely with you to choose plants you love looking at and are just the right maintenance level for you.

Let There be Light

This project utilized low voltage lighting. Southern Lights designed and installed all this amazing low voltage lighting. I love working with this company and highly recommend them.

It is one of the more common landscape lighting choices due to its many benefits. A few advantages of low voltage lighting are:

·       Improves ambiance during twilight or evening hours.

·       Provides visual security for an outdoor space.

·       Is more energy-efficient choice.

·       Utilizes less energy, meaning a lower power bill.

·       Less likely to overheat.

·       Run longer and endure a longer lifespan.

·       Flexibility to use anywhere in your outdoor space.

Dreaming up Your Very Own Backyard Oasis?

Don’t wait any longer to create the backyard oasis of your dreams! Call Hawkins Landscape Architecture today at 336-848-7164 to get started on your very own amazing project!

At Hawkins Landscape Architecture, I always work closely with every client to create their dream backyard. Additionally, my 3D landscape design allows clients to actually see what the new space will look like on their property before construction begins.

Head over and like my Instagram page for photos and inspiration on all things outdoor living and landscaping!

*All photos by Southern Exposure Landscape Management

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Outdoor Kitchens – Bring your Cooking and Entertaining Outdoors

Imagine not only enjoying a meal outside but cooking that entire meal outside as well. This dream is all made possible with an outdoor kitchen. From a griddle to a refrigerator and everything in between, an outdoor kitchen truly allows family and friends to cook and dine al fresco!

In today’s blog, I will cover all the various components of an outdoor kitchen. There are so many factors to consider when designing and building an outdoor kitchen and I want to ensure you know all your options.

At Hawkins Landscape Architecture, my 3D landscape design allows clients to see what an outdoor kitchen will look like in their backyard. It also gives them an idea of spacing of various outdoor kitchen components. This state-of-the-art technology is the perfect way to visualize what your yard will look like with your brand-new outdoor kitchen!

Ready, set, grill!

Components of an Outdoor Kitchen

There are many options available for outdoor kitchens today. This means the sky is the limit when designing them and you can create a dream kitchen right in your backyard.

Here are the main components of an outdoor kitchen:

·       Grills

·       Smokers

·       Pizza Ovens

·       Griddles

·       Refrigerators

·       Sinks

·       Kegerator or Drink Stations

·       Storage

·       Attached Bar Areas for Serving

Within each of the above components, there are an abundance of options available. Keep in mind you do not need to have all these components. You can pick and choose which items best work for you and your family’s needs.

Grills

When deciding on a grill for your outdoor kitchen you will need to contemplate the following factors.

·       Brand

·       Size

·       Type

There are so many brands of grills on the market today. I highly recommend you do your research to see which fits within your budget and fits your needs. A few popular brands include:

·       Blaze

·       Vermont Castings

·       KitchenAid

·       Weber

Most grills range in size from 200 to 600 square inches total. This would include not only the grill/cook surface, but the shelving on the side and areas below. Here is a great article on deciding on the perfect grill size for your outdoor kitchen.

The final factor to determine is the type of grill. Below are the four popular types of grills.

·       Charcoal

·       Gas

·       Pellet

·       Electric

Smokers

In North Carolina, BBQ is a must! That means smokers are extremely popular options for outdoor kitchens around here. Similar to grills, there are various types of smokers that include charcoal, gas, pellet, and electric. Some popular smoker brands are:

·       Masterbuilt

·       Traeger

·       Cuisinart

Pizza Ovens

Pizza always tastes best when it comes out of a pizza oven. That is why pizza ovens are growing in popularity for outdoor kitchens. Wood-fired pizza ovens tend to be the most known. However, within those are sub-types, such as, barrel vault ovens or Napoletana ovens.

Griddles

Unlike grills listed above, griddles offer a flat cooking surface instead of ones with parallel or lattice bars on the cooking surface. This means it is much easier to cook and clean almost anything on a griddle vs. a grill. In addition to common grill out food, many people enjoy cooking stir fry, hibachi, seared and sauteed ingredients for fajitas, bacon, and pancakes. A few popular griddle brands include:

·       Blackstone

·       Pit Boss

Refrigerators

Who wants to constantly go in and out of the house for ingredients while grilling or cooking outside? Save yourself the time and energy by adding a refrigerator into your outdoor kitchen. Not to mention you can keep your beverages cool in there and simply grab one while you are cooking or dining outside. Outdoor refrigerators come in a variety of sizes and are built to withstand the elements. Learn a little more about what to look for in selecting an outdoor refrigerator in this article.  

Sinks

A sink in your outdoor kitchen makes meal prep and clean up very easy! Stainless steel tends to be the most common material for outdoor sinks; however, stone sinks are also rising in popularity. Stone sinks tend to be made from soapstone, granite, or marble. Regardless of what material you choose, it makes the perfect addition to an outdoor kitchen.

Kegerator or Drink Stations

Unlike indoor kegerators, outdoor kegerators must prove their durability since it can get hot or cold outside depending on the time of year. A few options to consider when choosing an outdoor kegerator:

·       Single-tap vs. double-tap

·       Size

·       Class – luxury, premium, or standard

Another popular drink station choice for outdoor kitchens are outdoor wine coolers. These are perfect when you are entertaining multiple guests or throwing a party.

Storage

Just like an indoor kitchen, you will want storage in an outdoor kitchen. You need to plan to keep utensils, cooking tools, plates, cups, etc. outside if you do not want to make a ton of trips back and forth between inside your house and outside.

Attached Bar Areas for Serving

Last, but certainly not least, to consider is adding an attached bar area for serving. Adding this option into your outdoor kitchen makes serving family and guests so simple. It requires less effort for the cook and host.

Let Hawkins Landscape Architecture Design Your Dream Outdoor Kitchen

Is your mouth watering thinking about all the amazing meals you can make in your very own outdoor kitchen? Catch up to your senses and get started on building your dream outdoor kitchen today by calling me at 336-848-7164. I partner closely with all my clients to design landscaping elements they love and will enjoy for many years!

Follow my Instagram page for photos and inspiration on outdoor kitchens and any outdoor living element!

Landscape Structures: Part 4 – Picture-perfect Porches

This is part four of four in a series on landscape structures. Part four covers porches.

If you missed the other three parts of this series on landscape structures they covered pergolas, gazebos & sheds, and decks. Today’s blog discusses our last landscape structure… porches.

Porches are steadily increasing in popularity among homeowners due to their many benefits, extension of your outdoor living space, flexibility in design options, and comfort. There are so many different styles of porches that the sky really is the limit when it comes to porch design and materials! Enclosed porches are all the rage right now as they allow people to enjoy the outdoors for all seasons.

In my latest blog below, I discuss the advantages of porches and popular styles and design choices.

Advantages of Porches

Porches provide homeowners with numerous benefits. Here are a few advantages they offer:

·       Creates outdoor space away from the elements

·       Keeps bugs out (enclosed porches only)

·       Increases house’s square footage available

·       Raises home value

·       Provides many possibilities for entertaining

·       Adds a lavish charm to your outdoor living space

Porch Design Options

One important building aspect to consider in your porch design is the ceiling. Two popular choices are:

1.       Tongue and groove ceiling

2.       Volume ceiling

A tongue and groove ceiling is a popular choice. It is simple yet provides a classic look. Most people love that it provides a natural look. Additionally, some homeowners decide to stain or paint the ceiling to create a color that matches their color scheme for the porch.

In contrast, a volume ceiling is a taller ceiling for those wanting more height on their porch. The effect is much more dramatic with the volume ceiling and the beams can be decorative, adding to the charm of this option. This is the perfect choice for homeowners that are adding a full outdoor kitchen with a custom fireplace or pizza oven.

Another consideration related to porch ceilings is adding a ceiling fan. A fan is popular in the south as it is a great way to add a breeze and cool off those sitting on the porch.

Latest Trend in Porches – EZE BREEZE doors!

One of the newest trends in porches are ‘EZE BREEZE’ doors. These are a porch enclosure system that allows the space to be totally enclosed or totally open air. Homeowners love this simple, yet high-quality product and the flexibility it allows for porch designs.

Why Wait to Create a Porch the Entire Family Will Love?

If you have been dreaming of having the perfect porch, then do not wait any longer. Give me a call today at 336-848-7164 or complete this simple contact form to get started. We will discuss all your needs and budget so I can carefully design a porch your entire family will love spending time on. Be sure to visit my Instagram page for porch inspiration and other fun landscaping tips!

At Hawkins Landscape Architecture, I partner with every client to ensure they have a porch design they love, that fits within their budget. I want to ensure this outdoor living element is one they feel comfortable enjoying for many years to come. My 3D designs help my clients visualize what the porch or any landscape feature would look like on their property. It is the ideal way to see a project before construction even begins or to make any last-minute adjustments.

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Landscape Structures: Part 3 – Decks are the Cornerstone for Your Outdoor Oasis

This is part three of four in a series on landscape structures. Part three covers decks.

Decks are a comfortable spot to enjoy nature at home. They are an ideal locale for reading a book, relaxing with family, entertaining friends, and simply taking in the ambiance Mother Nature has to offer.

There are three major types of deck building projects. Those are building a new deck, renovating an existing deck, or adding a full ceiling system underneath a deck to allow the area beneath to become dry outdoor living space.

At Hawkins Landscape Architecture, I work closely with clients to determine their needs and budgets. This way I can help design the ultimate outdoor living space that often includes decks. My comprehensive landscape design includes placement of any landscape structures, such as decks, for an ultimate aesthetic appeal. Best of all, clients that utilize my 3D designs get to see what their deck will look like before construction even takes place!

In my latest blog below, I discuss the advantages of decks, materials, and numerous design ideas.

Benefits of Decks

These landscape structures provide so many wonderful advantages to homeowners. A few most noteworthy benefits include:

·       Increases home value

·       Expands house’s square footage

·       Provides endless entertainment possibilities

·       Creates luxurious aesthetic appeal to yard

Common Deck Building Materials

Today, there are so many options for what materials you can use to build your deck. On top of that, there are also many stains in some materials allowing for a variety of colors. As part of the design process with Hawkins Landscape Architecture, we will discuss the various materials available, what they will look like, and how they fit into your budget.

Five popular deck materials are:

1.       Pressure-treated lumber

2.       Cedar

3.       Redwood

4.       Composite

5.       Ipe

Below I go into a little more detail on each material’s pros and cons.

Pressure-treated lumber

Advantages: Lower cost and chemically treated to withstand mold, rot, and insect damage.

Disadvantages: Higher maintenance and tends to warp or crack over time.

Cedar

Advantages: Most inexpensive among the natural wood options, beautiful natural wood appearance, and long lifespan.

Disadvantages: More expensive than non-natural wood options and requires annual power washing and a coat finish every three to four years.

Redwood

Advantages: Long lifespan, beautiful natural wood appearance, durable, and often naturally rot-resistant.

Disadvantages: Expensive, harder to get on the East Coast, and requires annual power washing and a coat finish every three to four years.

Composite

Advantages: Low-maintenance, available in huge selection of colors and textures, and withstands rotting and insect damage.

Disadvantages: Damp spaces can attract mold and depending on the company and selection can be expensive.

Ipe (one of the more popular tropical hardwoods)

Advantages: Durable, naturally resistant to rot and insect damage, sleek and beautiful natural wood appearance, and long lifespan.

Disadvantages: Must be sealed every year, expensive, and not great option to stain or finish.

When selecting a deck material, it is important to factor in cost, maintenance, and what it will be used for. These variables will direct you to which deck material looks great, but also fits within your budget and needs.

Deck Design Ideas

A deck is not simply a space to sit outside, it provides the opportunity to create an outdoor living space you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Below are a few fun ideas to add to your deck!

·       Hot tub

·       Built-in seats

·       Plants

·       Garden

·       Shade sails

·       Lighting

·       Patio furniture

·       Fire pits (Read this great article on the do’s and don’ts for fire pits on wood decks!)

Let Me Help You Create Your Dream Deck Today!

Why wait any longer to build the deck of your dreams for your family to enjoy? Get started today by giving me a call at 336-848-7164 or completing this contact form. I look forward to patenting with you to create an outdoor living space you adore!

Check my Instagram page for inspiration and ideas for all things landscaping! Don’t miss the fourth and final blog in this landscape structures series. It will cover porches.

Spring Trees: Dogwoods and Beyond – Spring Plants Blog Series: Part 4 – Spring Trees

This final part in a four-part series on Spring plants. Part four covers Spring trees.

My Spring plants blog series covered Spring bulbs in part one, Spring perennials in part two, and Spring shrubs in part three. I will cover our fourth topic in today’s blog – Spring trees!

Trees provide so many amazing benefits in landscape designs. Two advantages of Spring trees are profuse blooms and a large variety of choices. The blooms on these trees add to a sense of joy with the return of Spring and adds a multitude of colors to any landscape. You can choose from a variety of Spring blooming trees. This means you can spread the bloom times out between early spring, mid spring, and late spring to enjoy color the entire season.  

Like other landscape elements it is sometimes hard to envision what a tree will look like on your property. Luckily, my 3D landscape designs allow you to see exactly how trees and other landscaping elements will look like in your yard before landscaping installation occurs!

Spring Trees

Nature provides so many wonderful trees to choose from to consider for your landscape design. I would highly recommend any of the flowering trees below for show-stopping blooms, hardiness, and attractive habit and leaves. Below are a few of my favorite Spring trees that look stunning in landscape designs. I share where each plant grows and their optimal growing conditions.

If you missed the other parts in this blog series, please check out this hardiness zone map as a reference point. The Piedmont Triad in North Carolina is in zone 7. Zones are determined by average annual extreme minimum temperature. For a more in-depth look at zones and to search your zip code, visit the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.

Dogwood (Cornus florida)

Hardiness Zones: 5-9

Optimal Growing Conditions: Partial shade to full sun. They need moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil.

Click here for more information on Dogwood.

Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Hardiness Zones: 4-9

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade. These plants need well-drained soil.

Click here for more information on the Redbud. *Note: These blooms emerge from the stems!

Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia X soulangeana)

Hardiness Zones: 4-9

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade. They need moist, acidic, organically rich and well-drained loamy soil.

Click here for more information on Saucer Magnolia.

Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata)

Hardiness Zones: 4-8

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade. Moist, well-drained, slightly acid soil is best for these plants.

Click here for more information on the Star Magnolia.

Flowering Cherry (Prunus serrulata)

Hardiness Zones: 5-8

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sun, partial shade, or mostly shade. These plants need well-drained, moist, acidic soil.

Click here for more information on the Flowering Cherry.

Amelanchier (Amelanchier arborea)

Hardiness Zones: 4-9

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade. These plants prefer moist, well-drained, acidic soil.

Click here for more information on the Amelanchier.

Carolina Silverbell (Halesia carolina)

Hardiness Zones: 4-8

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade. Medium moisture, well-drained, slightly acidic soil is best for these plants.

Click here for more information on Carolina Silverbell.

Spring Trees Provide Shade and Beauty. See How They Look in Your Yard with 3D Design!

From bulbs to trees, I hope you have enjoyed this four-part blog series on Spring plants. If you are considering adding trees or other plants, you do not have to guess what they will look like in your front or back yards. My 3D landscape design allows you to see exactly how they will look on your property, before anything is even planted. Get started today by calling me at 336-848-7164 or complete this easy contact form.

I look forward to discussing all your landscaping needs and making your outdoor oasis vision a reality! Be sure to check out my Instagram page (@3Dlandscapearchitect) for landscaping inspiration ideas and more fun facts on Spring plants!

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Spring Is Here – Finally! Spring Plants Blog Series: Part 1 – Spring Bulbs

This is part one of four in a series on Spring plants. Part one covers Spring bulbs.

If I were to create a version of the ‘My Favorite Things’ song, it would absolutely include various Spring plants. From cheery daffodils to the graceful tulip, I love Spring in the south. I absolutely adore seeing the vibrant Spring floral display the Piedmont Triad is offering right now.

Today’s blog discusses Spring bulbs. They are an amazing addition to a front or back yard. Each bulb adds a touch of color and nature’s magic to any landscape design. Not sure what plants will look best in your new landscape design? Do not worry, I can advise on what plants will look best and advise on what might not compliment your yard’s aesthetics. My 3D landscape design service also lets you see how they will look first-hand before anything even blooms!

Now, who is ready to learn about some gorgeous plants?

Spring Bulbs

The harbingers of spring are our southern bulbs. Below are some of my favorites and ones that are commonly used in southern landscape designs. I have included information on where each grows and the optimal growing conditions for each bulb.

Before we dive in, I recommend you check out this hardiness zone map. It lists all the zones in the continental United States in number format. As you will see the Piedmont Triad in North Carolina is zone 7. Zones are determined by average annual extreme minimum temperature. For a more in-depth look at zones and to search your zip code, visit the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.

Daffodil (Narcissus)

Hardiness Zones: 3-8

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sunlight. Ideally, they should have at least six hours a day of bright sun. They should also have well-drained soil.

Click here for more information on Daffodils.

Crocus (Crocus sativus)

Hardiness Zones: 3-8

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sun to light shade. This bulb needs light, well-drained soil.

Click here for more information on Crocus.

Hyacinth (Hyacinthus)

Hardiness Zones: 4-8

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sun or partial shade. These bulbs require moist, but well-drained soil.

Click here for more information on Hyacinth.

Snowdrops (Galanthus)

Hardiness Zones: 3-8

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade. In cooler climates does not require as moist soil, but in warmer clients does need moister soil.

Click here for more information on Snowdrops.

Bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta)

Hardiness Zones: 4-9

Optimal Growing Conditions: Sun or partial shade. Preferably, they should be planted in an area that does not have direct or strong sunlight.  These bulbs need moist, but well-drained soil.

Click here for more information on Bluebells.

Tulips (Tulipa)

Hardiness Zones: 3-8

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sunlight. These bulbs need to be planted in an area that is protected from strong winds. They require well-drained soil.

Click here for more information on Tulips.

Allium (Allium sativum)

Hardiness Zones: 4

Optimal Growing Conditions: Full sunlight. However, they can survive in partial shaded areas as well. They need well-drained soil.

Click here for more information on Allium.

Please note, you might have noticed that most of the bulbs prefer well-drained soil. That is because too much water and moisture will lead to rotting.

Spring Bulbs Pair Perfectly with Any Landscape Design

Are you ready to have a gorgeous backyard oasis and start watching those spring bulbs bloom every year? At Hawkins Landscape Architecture, we work closely with every single client on all details, including plants. We partner with you to create a yard you will enjoy for years to come. Get started today by giving us a call at 336-848-7164 or complete our simple contact form.

Be sure to follow my Instagram page to see fun facts about Spring plants! Do not miss part two of this series where we discuss Spring Perennials!

Landscape Structures: Part 2 – Luxurious Gazebos and Quaint Sheds

This is part two of four in a series on landscape structures. Part two covers gazebos and sheds.

Gazebos and sheds are all the rage in landscape design right now. Both provide great benefits to homeowners and offer an abundance of design options. At Hawkins Landscape Design, we partner with our clients to discuss their needs and budgets and provide a comprehensive landscape design. This includes placement of any landscape structures, including a gazebo or shed, for an overall outdoor living design they will love for many years.

I love that these landscape structures provide either ambiance or refuge for my clients. They are fun to place in a landscape design and pair perfectly with so many other landscape features. Learn more about these unique and cool landscape structures in my blog below.

Gazebos

One of the features of gazebos that provides the most benefit to homeowners is there seemingly unlimited uses. Here are some popular ways to utilize a gazebo:

·       Shaded area

·       Reading nook

·       Poolside lounge space

·       Garden

·       Outdoor kitchen

·       Exercise or yoga destination

·       Hot tub

·       Entertaining space

These are only a few of the ways homeowners could use a gazebo. Since it has a cover and is flexible in design and size, the possibilities are endless. It protects against the sun’s harsh rays and the downpours that often occur in North Carolina. They are a great place to enjoy the outdoors but stay dry no matter the weather.

Common Materials Used for Gazebos

When it comes to the sides and roof of the gazebo there are numerous options to choose from for materials. We will discuss your needs and budgets, and help you decide on a material(s) you will like and will look stunning on the finished structure.

Below are a few common materials used in gazebos:

·       Wood – there are many options within this category, like pressure treated lumber or cedar wood

·       Aluminum

·       Steel

·       Canvas

·       Bamboo

·       Wrought iron

·       Brick

·       Stone

It is important to consider what the gazebo will be used for, climate, and price when deciding upon materials for your gazebo. You will want something that looks the way you want but fits within your budget.

Sheds

One landscape structure that has been around awhile but has recently rose in popularity due to changes in uses are sheds. Only a few years ago, sheds were mostly used for storage or maintenance. Recently, sheds have increased in popularity to do new uses for the space. The most common is the ‘she shed’, which has numerous uses. A few ways to utilize a she shed are:

·       Home office

·       Recreation room

·       Home gym

·       Private spa

·       Hang out destination

·       Crafting space

This stand-alone structure has unlimited design possibilities. It can even look almost like a mini house from the outside, complete with a front patio and columns (as pictured here).

At Hawkins Landscape Architecture, we will discuss all your needs and desires for your shed to ensure you have one that you absolutely adore looking at and using!

If you are looking at a prefabricated shed, it can be sited on your property on my masterplan. However, custom gazebos and sheds need to be designed by a licensed architect and constructed by a general contractor.

See Designs Come to Life with Our 3D Landscape Design

Our amazing 3D Landscape Design is extremely popular among clients as it allows them to truly see what the gazebo or shed will look like right in their yard. It is a great way to make tweaks so you know exactly what you are getting ready to build. Our clients love that they can see first-hand how their landscape structure will look.

Create Your Dream Gazebo or Shed Today!

Do not wait any longer to create a space you cannot live without in your yard. We will work closely with you during the entire design process to ensure you have a gazebo or shed you love. Call us today at 336-848-7164 or complete our simple contact form. We cannot wait to help get you into an outdoor living space you love!

Looking for ideas or inspiration now? Check my Instagram page to see some of my other landscape structures projects!

Luxurious Fiberglass Pools and Spas Provide Numerous Benefits

Are you dreaming about enjoying the perfect pool in your background with friends and family? At Hawkins Landscape Architecture, we can design your vision with every detail you desire to help you bring this amazing outdoor space to life. There are so many benefits of fiberglass pools, which we discuss in detail in our latest blog. When you add on a spa, there are even more benefits at your disposal. We also share the many landscaping options to consider when you are adding a pool and spa to your backyard.  

My goal is always to provide a finished design that my clients love and will enjoy in their backyard for years to come. Pools and spas are luxuries that I absolutely love designing. There are truly so many design options available. I work closely with every single client to ensure the final design is exactly what they are looking for in their backyard.

Are you ready to dive into all the wonderful benefits a pool and spa provide you and your family?

Fiberglass Pools – Endless Benefits

Fiberglass pools are one of the options when you are considering adding a long-term pool in your backyard. They offer numerous advantages, which include:

·       Lower life-time cost

·       Less maintenance required

·       Shorter install time

·       Smooth interior surface

·       Extremely durable

·       Resistant to saltwater damage

·       Doesn’t impact water’s pH level

·       Algae-resistant gelcoat

·       Less electricity & chemicals required

These are only a few of the benefits of choosing a fiberglass pool. We can discuss those in length in your consultation.

Recommended Fiberglass Pool Brands

At Hawkins Landscape Architecture, we will work closely with you and your contractors to ensure you end up with a pool you love and are able to maintain. We do have a few fiberglass pools we highly recommend to our clients. Those are:

·       San Juan Pools

·       Blue Hawaiian Pools

·       Viking Pools

Spas Provide Numerous Health Benefits

Most people love sitting in spas or hot tubs, but did you know they offer extensive physical and mental health benefits? Here are some of the top health benefits they provide.

·       Muscle relaxation

·       Joint pain relief

·       Decrease blood pressure

·       Burn calories

·       Improve insulin sensitivity

·       Restore flexibility

·       Alleviate lower back pain

·       Decrease headaches

·       Reduce anxiety & stress

·       Better sleep

Luxurious Landscaping to Complement Your Pool & Spa

While you are swimming in your pool or relaxing in your spa, you will want to enjoy the outdoor space around you. Landscaping is the perfect way to create a flawless ambiance around your pool area. Four big landscaping tools we use in these settings are:

1.       Pool deck

2.       Retaining walls

3.       Plantings

4.       Lighting

We carefully tailor each of these landscaping features into your overall pool and spa design. Our goal is always to provide a design where you love every detail. We want you to be able to envision you and your family enjoying that outdoor living space and making many cherished memories.

Skip the Guesswork – See Your Landscape Design in 3D!

Between the size and shape, it is often hard to imagine a pool in your backyard. 3D landscape designs completely change that. Our unique and revolutionary 3D Landscape Design allows clients to see the pool and spa they want right in their own backyard – before installation even begins! This is an ideal way to ensure you love the size and shape of the pool before installing it into your backyard.

Design Your Dream Pool & Spa Today!

Are you ready to create and have your very own pool to entertain family and friends? We can help make that dream a reality! To get started simply give us a call at 336-848-7164 or complete our simple contact form. During our consultation we will discuss your vision, budget, and answer any questions you have about the process.

If you are interested in seeing some of my other work, then head over to my Instagram to see photos from my various landscape design projects. I am looking forward to helping you create the pool of your dreams that you will enjoy for many years!

Outdoor Living is the Future of Homeownership

Outdoor living spaces continue to grow in popularity and provide the ultimate ‘staycation’ spot. Imagine cozying up with the perfect book in comfortable patio furniture under an exquisite pergola. Or imagine enjoying a glass of wine with friends on a cool Spring evening in front of a crackling fire in a stunning stone outdoor fireplace. All these amazing outdoor living scenes can be yours! The sky is the limit when it comes to what amenities you want. I work closely with every client to ensure they have a landscape design they absolutely love.

Benefits of Outdoor Living Spaces

There are numerous benefits to adding on an outdoor living space. A few of the top advantages include:

·       Ability to enjoy nature at home

·       Increases home’s value

·       Extra space to entertain

·       Great place for family bonding time

·       Improve health by spending more time outdoors

As there are endless possibilities for an outdoor living space, I collaborate closely with every single client to establish what features are most important to them.

What Does an Outdoor Living Space Look Like?

This question does not have just one answer, as it looks different for every client I work with. For instance, some clients adore fire pits while others want an outdoor fireplace.

Pictured here is a recent project I completed that provides some commonly requested outdoor living features. This client utilized the following elements:

·       Stone fireplace

·       New patio

·       Retaining walls

·       Planting

·       Low voltage lighting

The design and lines blend seamlessly and provide the ultimate aesthetical appeal for the homeowners. It is the supreme place to enjoy nature and relax.

How Are Outdoor Living Spaces Customizable?

One of the best things about landscape architecture is the abundance of various materials to utilize. All the elements listed in the above project are completely customizable for every single project. I work closely with each client to work within their budget and only use materials they love how they look.

Below are a few examples of ways elements are customizable through materials.

Outdoor Fireplaces

An outdoor fireplace brings warmth to any space. Therefore, it is a popular choice among NC homeowners for their outdoor living space. Best of all, there are so many materials we can use to construct an outdoor fireplace. A few common choices include:

·       Stone

·       Brick

·       Concrete blocks

·       Stucco

Each has a different look and brings a unique style to any outdoor fireplace. There are also various colors and types of each material listed above. For example, a stone fireplace could be made from slate or flagstone.

Another factor to consider is price point. Each material costs a different amount. This means it is potentially a great way to save money if you utilize a less-expensive material. However, it could also be your splurge item if you want a less common material used. For example, natural stone usually costs more than brick, but some people prefer its more natural quality.

Patios

Like outdoor fireplaces, patios are also completely customizable. There are a variety of materials available for patios. Here are some popular choices:

·       Concrete

·       Brick

·       Flagstone

·       Pavers

·       Tiles

·       Cut stone

Each of these materials provide a distinct look and cost different prices. You are not tied down to just one material either. Another option is mixing the above, or other, materials to create a truly individualized patio.

Planting

If you are going to be outside, then you should absolutely take advantage of that and include planting in your outdoor living space. Whether it is small trees, flowers, shrubs or bushes, this detail is always an important part of every landscape design I complete. I discuss all the options with each client and what types of plants they enjoy seeing. Then, we carefully decide together what will work best for their outdoor living area.

3D Landscape Design – Where the Vision Becomes Reality in Front of Your Eyes

Are you worried the ‘vision’ you have in mind will not turn out the way you envisioned? My 3D landscape design services vividly and realistically display my designs to clients. This means clients will see the designs in a real-life way before they are implemented and permanent. 3D designs mean you do not simply attempt to mentally visualize a plan but see what it will look like on your property.

Why Wait for Your Dream Outdoor Living Space Any Longer?

Do not wait any longer to create and use your dream outdoor living space! Call Hawkins Landscape Architecture at 336-848-7164 or complete this simple contact form to start on your project today. I can not wait to partner with you to bring your vision to fruition.

Looking for inspirational landscape architecture ideas for your home? Be sure to follow me on Instagram where I post all my latest projects and ideas! I can be found on Instagram @3DLandscapearchitect