Orlando Bungalow Landscape
Orlando, Florida
The overall goal of this bungalow landscape design was to increase curb appeal, create more useable space for the family, and update the landscape to match the client’s style. In the front yard we proposed a new 10’ wide paver driveway with paver walkway access to the front door. Side parking phased in, as budget allows. It was clear their front yard was not serving the family with the existing layout. We proposed to remove the existing planter boxes, walkway, and fencing near the street. The hedge along the western property line will remain and be cleaned up of all undesired plants and vines. We reused the existing large hexagon pavers with gravel in between to create a seating and/or fire pit area in the front yard. Planting beds will wrap the side and front to visually enclose a front lawn space.
In the backyard an existing shed and storage box will be removed due to their current state. The existing pavers shall be removed for reuse. New landscape beds are proposed along the perimeter of the fence-line with a new lawn in the middle for family play. The new planting plan provides a cohesive perimeter with visual interest.
The client might convert the large window on the rear facade to a double door. We have shown this in the design, however the design still functions if they choose not to install the door. The existing 16” square pavers can be cleaned up and reused to create a paver patio in place of the old wood deck and pergola. Using the same pavers, a walkway leads to a new wood deck off the rear of the home. For longevity, composite decking is recommended but a wood deck is just fine as a more budget friendly option. When using wood in Florida, we always recommend applying a good sealer to expand the life of the deck. Some of the existing pavers are used as a floor for the existing outdoor shower.
The old chain link fence is not doing much for security or privacy. The client had concerns over how the fence interacted with the existing large trees on your neighbors property. We proposed a wood screening fence in front of the old fence. This not only provides privacy, but creates a more visually attractive view from the new deck.
For this design and budget we were able to reuse a lot of the existing hardscape and various plants. The 16” square pavers and large hexagon pavers will clean up nicely with a pressure wash. The smaller hexagon pathway on the western side is in good condition and would also benefit from a pressure wash.
This design incorporates Florida Friendly plants that flower at different times throughout the year. Plants such as Plumbago, Ixora, Hawaiian Ti, and Golden Trumpet Tree were used along the facade and throughout the yard to achieve year-round interest.
This design will require yearly maintenance but no more than that of similar residences in the area. This design is considered low maintenance. The plant palette features all Florida Native or Florida Friendly plants that are suitable for our local climate. Irrigation is recommended for the first three growing seasons but the plant palette is considered drought tolerant.
