Getting the keys to your new home is one of the most exciting things in life. But a new home is rarely perfect and often needs a do-over. Landscaping renovations are a great way to add a personal touch. If you’re looking at some new-home landscaping in Perth, here are some key things to consider before signing off:
- Draw up a vision
For some this is the hard bit, others thrive on a bit of planning and creative decision making. Whether you like it or not, the result will be all the more harmonised and sophisticated when there’s a plan to refer to. Not only can planning be a great way of thinking about what you need to get, but it also makes the next few steps much easier. A vision needn’t be final either, think of it as a rough guide that will steer you in the right direction. Looking online at Pinterest and Instagram is a great starting out and an endless source of inspiration.
- Know your budget and costs
It may be the most boring part, but it’s a necessary hurdle in realising your dream garden. Landscaping can be costly if not planned right, so if you’re consulting a professional or using a contractor, make sure you’re both on the same bag before anyone starts work. Writing up a budget is also a great way to get creative with materials that would otherwise be wasted. Recycling and repurposing old timber, stone, and other items around your backyard is a great way to save money and help the environment.
- Work with what you have in creative ways
Aside from recycling and repurposing, there are plenty of other ways to use the original landscape, materials, and surrounding structures to your advantage. For example, soil from one area can be reused in another less fertile garden bed, or displaced plants can be replanted and given new life in other areas of your garden.
- Understand local council regulations
Often overlooked and forgotten about is getting the appropriate planning approval. When not filed for and approved, some projects can end up being more of a nightmare than a dream garden. Ask a local professional landscaper or consult your local council for details on whether you’re going to need approval.
- Get the right plants
Getting the right plants from the beginning will be better for your garden as well as your wallet. Choosing plants for the right climate and soil composition in your garden will avoid them dying off suddenly in the summer or winter. If you’re unsure, speak with your landscaping professional about what plants would best suit your landscaping project.
- Make your new space functional for everyone
There’s no point in designing a space that is difficult to use. You want to be able to spend more quality time in your backyard and not worry about how structurally sound the roof is or whether there’s enough space for wheelchair access for example.
- Always get a quote from a professional
Even if you’re planning on using a mate’s cement mixer, recycle and reuse everything else, it’s still worth consulting a local landscaping professional who knows their craft and can give you a detailed overview of what to expect.
