10 Ways to Amp up Your Arizona Landscape Design

The Southwest has its own unique feel when it comes to art, music, and culture in general. This style is evident in the architecture and landscaping of modern homes.

Because if its harsh, warm temperatures, many people associate Arizona with dull, barren landscapes. While it’s true this is a desert region, that doesn’t mean the landscaping must be drab and uninteresting.

In fact, when used correctly, many native elements of the Southwest will greatly improve the appeal of the landscaping around your home.

If your landscaping needs an overhaul, there are many interesting ways to spruce it up. Let’s look at ten Arizona landscape design tips to help you add more character to the outside of your home.

1. Succulents

Succulents are synonymous with the Southwest. Because they’re native to the region, they can thrive in the hot, dry climate. The many species of succulents provide you with a wide range of interesting looks when thinking about an overhaul of your yards and flower beds.

A desert garden consisting of succulents instead of grass allows you to avoid high water bills. Here’s your opportunity to get creative with plants that look like they were designed by artists.

Also, consider lining the perimeter of your home or deck area with succulents. Used as simple accessories, they work wonders. And you don’t have to worry about them being in direct sunlight for the majority of the day.

2. Consider Other Desert Plants

Succulents aren’t the only native plants that work well for Arizona landscape design. You can complement existing flower beds and yards with other plants that work well in desert regions.

Hibiscus is very resilient and blooms from spring to fall. Torch Glow Bougainvillea has an interesting look that works well against succulents.

If you’d like more color, try the Katie Ruellia or Baja Ruellia. Foxtail ferns are another great option if you like interesting plants.

Each of these works well in all landscapes and require little maintenance in the Arizona heat.

3. Outdoor Fireplaces

An outdoor fireplace will not only add a classy look to your backyard, they’re great for entertaining guests. An adobe fireplace creates a south-of-the-border feel and is perfect if you like the Southwest look.

Regardless of your vision, a well-built outdoor fireplace truly adds a whole new element to your landscape. If you’re thinking about adding one, but are at a loss as to what look would suit your yard, have an outdoor fireplace custom designed.

4. Fire Pits

If you’re not sure a fireplace would suit you, a fire pit may be more your speed. A fire bowl looks great in a more contemporary yard. They come in all sizes and work perfectly as a casual gathering spot.

Fire tables provide a place to enjoy a meal along with a source of heat when the evenings cool down. Plus, you can convert them into a larger table when the fire isn’t being used.

Fire hearths provide the aesthetic of a full fireplace at a fraction of the cost. Hearths are built against a wall instead of free-standing like a fireplace. They typically run on propane and are easy to maintain.

5. Garden Walkways

Bring together the many elements of your Arizona landscape design with a garden walkway. When designing yards, many people forget about walkways that connect different areas and features. A walkway adds some structure to a lawn that otherwise seems disorderly.

Aside from serving a functional purpose, a walkway adds to the overall atmosphere. Depending on the materials used, you can achieve a casual or regal look. Add some subtle lighting and you have an elegant passage weaving through your yard.

6. Water Features

Custom water features like waterfalls and fountains are one of the biggest trends in landscaping design. These can be built to work with an existing pool or stand alone as a unique design feature.

There are a number of styles available, so you can play on the surrounding aesthetic of your yard. Go with a natural look using boulders around your water feature. Or, create something a little more extravagant using columns.

Whatever your taste, a custom water feature will add a bit of class to your Arizona landscape design.

7. Pergolas

If you’re considering upgrading your existing patio, a pergola is a great option. This is an especially functional feature, as it provides shade during the brutal Southwest summers.

Like all design elements, you have complete control over the look and feel of a pergola. Create a casual atmosphere perfect for entertaining. Or, design a more private space by going with a solid roof and closed-off sides.

Pergolas also work great as freestanding features set away from the house.

8. Outdoor Lighting

Landscape lighting is one of the best ways to accentuate your new or existing design elements and provide a great evening atmosphere. The selection available and the technology used in modern outdoor lighting give you countless options.

Use path lights to bring out walkways. Install subtle deck lights to create atmosphere and a great light source when relaxing outside. Accent lights lining gardens and flower beds bring out the work you’ve put into your yard.

9. Outdoor Kitchens

If you entertain guests often, an outdoor kitchen is a great way to add some fun to your Arizona landscape design. This feature works best under a patio or tucked away near a swimming pool.

Depending on your needs, there are a number of options. Go with a nice built-in grill if you simply want a quality barbequing space for parties. Or, go with full-sized outdoor kitchen with grills and countertops.

If you want to go all out, add a bar and storage space for full functionality.

10. Landscaping for Privacy

If you prefer a more private environment, there are things you can do to create your own little sanctuary without compromising design.

Adding an elegant fence or lattice screen helps provide more privacy and also looks great. Look for taller plants or hedges that thrive in the desert heat and plant them around the perimeter of your yard.

Arizona Landscape Design Elements for Your Home

Whether you’re starting from scratch or just need to enhance existing landscaping, make sure to plan before you get started. Hopefully, these ideas inspire your own vision for a new outdoor environment.

Once you have a plan in place, contact Edgewater Landscape and Design Company. We provide landscape and pool design services in the Arizona area.

Amp up your backyard with affordable landscaping in Gilbert, AZ.

Call Edgewater Design Company at (480) 389-7114 or schedule a free design consultation.