LANDSCAPE DESIGN
“ Asking the right questions and truly understanding your customers’ needs and wants allows a design professional to create the right plan,” said Leisman.“ We consistently coach our team on materials, colors, and the wide range of options available in the market. With so many choices out there, expert knowledge is essential. It enables our design professionals to navigate extensive catalogs on behalf of the customer and thoughtfully curate a select group of local options that best align with their needs, preferences, and overall vision.”
tizing thoughtful design that helps them recharge. Creating a place to relax and unwind with loved ones is priceless for reducing stress and increasing happiness.”
According to Leisman, wellness can mean different things to different people, so guiding a customer in the right direction starts with truly understanding their personal needs and goals.
“ For many customers, creating a personal outdoor retreat is a top priority,” he said.“ This can take many forms, such as a shaded lush garden, a tranquil water feature beside a sunny seating area, or a quiet, well-lit reading bench in the backyard for relaxing after a long day. Building that vision starts with getting to know your customer on a personal level and asking the right questions.”
Natural materials, texture and colors
For years, modern design meant cool, crisp shades of gray or clean white for hardscape materials. Now, there’ s a big shift toward more natural shades such as mocha brown, sandy beige or soft taupe. White is still popular, though now a warm white with a hint of tan is rising in popularity.
Beyond color, texture comes into play with material selection trends. Design choices feature more organic, flowing elements with softer shapes and rounded corners. Homeowners are choosing a variety of textures that bring a layered approach, including artificial turf, textured pavers and, in some regions, composite decking materials, which create a unique integration.
“ We love this move toward natural materials and tones. It gives outdoor spaces a more rooted feeling, connected to the landscape,” said Aaron Brundage, System Pavers director of operations, Colorado.“ Product choices that blend with nature depend heavily on your region. We have to consider your home’ s interior, exterior, regional climate and native plantings when developing the perfect design.”
According to Leisman, presenting a cohesive plan that presents a range of materials without overwhelming the client starts with the initial design consultation.
Low-maintenance hardscape design
Families have increasingly busy lifestyles, and anything that can help minimize their stress is crucial. There are many choices homeowners can make to create low-maintenance outdoor living spaces that require little upkeep. Choosing materials that are built to last and age beautifully is becoming infinitely more popular than products that require regular cleaning, painting, or staining.
Durability plays an essential role in prioritizing sustainability as well. Minimizing water usage and reducing runoff is ultimately costeffective and better for the environment. Hardscape solutions engineered to last and support the communities around them are quickly becoming the standard, especially products like permeable pavers that help communities meet local government drainage requirements in some regions.
“ Today’ s homeowners look for more strategic material selections that go beyond aesthetics and offer long-term value,” said Leisman.“ The final product should have an immediate and lasting impact, minimizing future maintenance costs.”
Overall, Leisman is excited and optimistic for the direction these trends signal.
“ Having the opportunity to help our customers create outdoor living spaces where lasting memories are made and to build something that stands the test of time is incredibly rewarding. We continue to see demand grow, and we are looking forward to what’ s ahead and inspiring our customers for their next outdoor project.”
12 OPE + May 2026 www. OPE-Plus. com