Create Focus

 

Focal points add interest and

depth to a garden,

lead the eye through a space

and provide a visual resting place. 

 

Create a focal point through contrast - 

a different material, size, shape, texture or color

draws the eye and anchors the scene.

 

The possibilities are limitless...

 

 

...a bit of whimsy in a bird house...

 

 

...style through sculpture...

 

 

 ...a pretty planter against a plain fence...

 

 

...even a well placed tree.

 

 

 

Another way to describe a focal point is

dominence.

Although this planting has

repetition, contrast and interest,

the lack of dominence

means the eye has no place to naturally rest.

It lacks a sense of cohesion.

 

 

Plants can become focal points

that change throughout the year.  

Blue Siberian Iris (Iris siberica) are the star attraction at the moment. 

As the Iris fade, focus will shift to the purple Barberry and pink roses. 

 

In winter, the tree and boulder will take prominence.

 

In fact, all these features provide interest now,

and provide a path for the eye to follow, but

because there is dominance,

the composition feels balanced.

 

 

 Brilliant white blooms

transform a simple lamp post

into a seasonal star.

 

The weeping hemlock 

will step up

when winter works its way

on perennials and deciduous shrubs.

 

Good planning

creates a succession of focus

through the year.

 

 

 Summer Lavender stands out

against a sea of green. 

 

As its flowers fade, 

the grasses will come into

their fall glory,

and steal the scene. 

 

Still later,

stately evergreens

stand ready to take the helm.

 

 

 

 Well placed plants 

"frame" and enhance the focal point,

a soaring Blue Atlas Cedar.

 

 

 

 

 

Read about more landscape design strategies here.