We all know that the world is getting more crowded, but if you live in a desirable location the reality of it can literally hit home. More people vying for a finite amount of land leads to small, expensive lots and high-density development. And that creates the need to protect one’s domain from inquiring eyes and even ears, as well as the desire to keep the chaos of the outside world at bay. As more people squeeze onto less land, the need for a little peace and quiet has become a pressing design consideration.
Street noise, nosy neighbors, nasty views, and the drone of the mower next door are some of the things homeowners want to keep from invading their backyard havens. Fortunately, implementing a well-thought-out landscape plan can go a long way toward alleviating these density woes.
Carefully placed trees and plantings can screen out undesirable views while they provide privacy and deflect noise. Outbuildings can shield the yard from the street and the neighbors while they shape and support the outdoor spaces. Babbling fountains and brooks add a soothing note while they drown out everyday racket. Talented designers are full of ideas for creating restful, secure backyards.
In this issue, we feature two projects that rise to the challenge of density. One is a private landscape for living on a slice of densely developed beach front. The other creates a serene outdoor setting on a patch of urban chaos. They both prove that good landscape design can give us a little peace and quiet in an increasingly crowded and noisy world.
