Thoughtful landscaping ideas are the key to creating an outdoor space that truly revives and inspires you, whether you have a tiny courtyard in an urban area or a sprawling estate in the country. Everything from the grass type you choose to the design of the flower beds and the hardscaping contributes to how you use the space—and how often. Whether you opt for flat stone pavers or acres of green lawn, your landscape design reflect your personality and tastes as much as your home’s interiors do.
From traditional window boxes bursting with white hydrangeas to a reclaimed wood fence that adds character to any architectural style, the possibilities of landscaping are limitless. And landscaping goes much further than choosing flowers and laying stone: Landscape designers work with the specifics of your geographic area and terrain to create a yard that will bring you joy even in the depths of winter, when the mere thought of going outdoors gives you a shiver. Outdoor lighting, a fire pit, a swimming pool, a lush garden—they can bring all your yard goals to life.
To help you transform your own patio, backyard, garden, and more, we’ve rounded up inspiring landscaping ideas and examples that truly make the most of your natural surroundings. Browse the list for answers to your own garden design dilemmas, and you might happen across a few unexpected ideas along the way. (And if you’re looking for a simple guide to help you come up with a landscape design from scratch, keep reading to the end.) These outdoor spaces will pave the way to better landscape design for every size, style, and region.