Okay, here’s the science: Repetition is one of the key principles of landscape design.
Sometimes repetition is the repeated use of elements or features to create patterns or a sequence in a landscape design, but is can also sometimes just be as simple as repeating the use of the same color, texture, or form throughout the landscape. Repeating line, form, color, and texture creates rhythm in the landscape (we’ll do a deep dive into rhythm next month).
And here is how it works: All of that sounds more difficult than it is.
Think of it this way—your eye naturally focuses on the object that is the greatest distance away, it loves symmetry, and is always pleased by odd numbers such as 3 or 5 or 7. Using the same plant repeatedly in a landscape is simple repetition. Using a series of the same arches, pots, orbs or other elements is also simple repetition. As is using a group of similar features but slightly varying their size, texture, or color.
The best place to start to play with the concept of repetition is with common elements such as containers, border plantings, and simple hardscape elements. The best thing about getting this trick right? You know it when you see it. It just feels “right”.
Plants
We’re going to use boxwoods as the plant in these examples, because they’re the most easy to read when used repeatedly. Here they’re used in repetition (this is four quadrants separated by paths) to create the corners of a parterre filled in with matched sets of perennials. This appears more aspirational than it is!
Below: A low hedge of boxwoods creates an soothing, unbroken line. A trio of matching boxwoods creates movement while keeping it simple.
Hardscape
In these examples, hardscape elements are used repeatedly to emphasize the depth or length of a space. These weathered arches draw you in, daring you to not follow them through to their end destination. The repeated use of the same grass has the effect of uninterrupted flow. You could do this on a smaller scale just arching over the walkway up the front door.
Below: The line of large concrete orbs is exciting and visually stimulating. The repeated pattern of the stair steps helps to create an unbroken line that feels good.
Pots
Of course if you don’t want to take on a landscaping project, just buying matching pots and plants can also produce the easy sophistication that comes with the use of repetition. How natural does this trio of zinc containers look when planted with the same variety in different colors?
Below: While this is a larger scale version, the idea is the same–create a line that the eye keeps travelling while producing a feeling of ease. And, this grouping of repeated exactly matching potted trees with soft underplantings would be an answer to how to break up a long, boring wall.
So, there you go.
The next time you’re watching some tv show and a landscape designer speak about the use of repetition and the magic it brings to a landscape, you’ll just nod in agreement!
And, you’ll see a picture like this and just know…if only they had added one more of those boxwoods!
Lead Image: Carolina Landscape Service Inc., Charleston, SC (carolinalandscape.net)
Leave a Comment
Monrovia reserves the right to remove comments deemed offensive, vulgar or inappropriate at any time without explanation.
This is very helpful as I am finding it very difficult to find anyone who truly “designs” landscape or gardens where I live. I’m particularly interested in the trees in wooden planters, near the end of the article, under planted with white flowering plant – can anyone tell me what that tree is?
Great article, I love most of your ideas although the concrete steps and orbs would be out of the realm for most. I particularly liked the first picture with the wooden framework and have a place I actually thought of putting this in, except now instead of one I can see where the addition of two more would work best. I have had to replace my front and back yards, this project will be on hold for next year–I am thinking more of a curved archway. Thanks
I wish I could get my garden to look like this!
You actually make it seem really easy together with your presentation but I in finding this matter to be really something that I feel I would by no means understand. It sort of feels too complex and extremely broad for me. I’m looking forward for your next publish, Ill try to get the cling of it! efkgbdbbkddbkdbk
Your 101 quick design class is inspirational!! I now know exactly what I will do along the long boring walkway up the side of the garage leading to the back yard!! Thank you!
This article gets an A+! The key take away is the idea that you know when it “feels right.” I enjoy drawing this feeling out of clients, especially the man of the house who doesn’t always express such feelings. When they tune into that they begin to enjoy the design process and participation spikes sky high. When that happens I know they will enjoy the garden more and take greater care of it after I’m gone.
This is all so beautiful! I love the lime green of the plants & grass combined with the gray of the rocks, balls & stepping stones. Thank you for the reminder to plant with repetition & in odd numbers!
The examples are very helpful. Showing examples of what not to do (to illustrate contrast) would also be appreciated.
Very good information
Very beautiful gardens, I just love lot’s greenery and colorful flowers!
Stunning! Thank You.