We explore how Kent landscape designers can tailor their designs to fit the South Coast properties in this blog post, and the design principles, plant choices and sustainability methods used by Kent landscape designers who specialise in South Coast properties.
Embrace Coastal Character with Kent Landscape Design
For landscape design for South Coast properties (especially in Kent), the first step is to celebrate and reflect the coastal environment. Whether your home looks out onto the English Channel in Hythe or is tucked away in a charming village, draw inspiration from the surroundings. Local Kent landscape designers will have experience in incorporating elements such as driftwood, beach pebbles, and native stones to create features that naturally reflect the coastal setting.
Resilient Design in Kent landscape design
South Coast homes are exposed to a range of weather conditions, including high winds, salt-laden air, and infrequent storms. When designing your Kent garden, prioritise resilience and durability to withstand these weather conditions.
Plants for South Coast gardens
Select hardy, salt-tolerant plants such as sea thrift (Armeria), sea kale (Crambe maritima), and lavender that grow in sand and salty environments. These types of plants are familiar to local Kent landscape designers, who will know which perform well in the area throughout the year.
Protection – Windbreaks
Windbreaks made up of hedges, coastal shrubs, etc., will protect your more delicate plants and provide sheltered outdoor areas in your Kent garden.
Sustainable Water-Wise Landscaping for South Coast Homes
The importance of conserving water cannot be overstated, especially in coastal areas where access to fresh water may be restricted. Expert Kent landscape designers will use water-wise landscaping techniques when designing a South Coast garden, and include:
Drought-Tolerant Plants
Choosing plants that do not need much water.
Rainwater Harvesting Systems
Installing systems to collect rainwater and utilise permeable pavers to minimise run off and maximise groundwater recharge.
By implementing sustainable water management strategies, we can both conserve this precious resource and improve the health of our coastal ecosystems in Kent.
Biodiversity in Kent Gardens
Our coastlines are rich in biodiversity, from migrating birds to rare coastal plants. To enhance the ecological value of your home, work with a Kent landscape designer to create a habitat for the native wildlife found along the Kent coast. Use native plants such as sea buckthorn and thrift to attract wildlife and provide them with food and shelter. Also consider adding wildlife-friendly features such as bird feeders, bat boxes, and insect hotels to increase biodiversity in your Kent garden further and ultimately create a thriving ecosystem.
Seaside Retreats in Kent
A coastal garden is so much more than just something visually pleasing; it’s somewhere you can escape to and relax. Kent landscape designers focus on creating inviting, comfortable outdoor spaces that let you absorb the sights and sounds of the coastline. Create a coastal-inspired seating area with durable, weather-resistant materials like teak or cedar, and add plush cushions and throws to make the space even more welcoming. Add sensory elements to the space, such as wind chimes or water features, to create a soothing atmosphere reminiscent of the seaside.
Landscaping and gardening for South Coast homes, particularly in Kent, is a labour of love that reflects the coastal way of life and its inherent resilience. By celebrating the unique characteristics of the coastal environment, adopting resilient design principles, and promoting biodiversity, local Kent landscape designers can help homeowners create engaging outdoor spaces that embody the essence of coastal living. A thoughtfully designed landscape is a true haven, a refuge that epitomises the heart of the South Coast.
Garden Designers: Ivy & Whyte
Plants Sourced: Palmstead
