Looking to start a landscape project in time for spring? Bevolo checked in with a New Orleans Landscape Designer who specializes in creating New Orleans style courtyards and outdoor spaces. Beverly Katz, frequent Bevolo partner and owner of Exterior Designs Inc. commented on Landscape Design in the South. Read the interview below:
The outdoor spaces reflect the historic buildings of Spanish and French influence with the brick masonry, wrought iron and sconces. Customers will say to me, 'I just want a feeling of the past and to connect to [my] ancestors, I want what my grandmother had.'
Beverly achieves this feeling through careful selection of materials and frequent maintenance.
Here, the trend is to stay Southern and true to local. I can take a huge space and make it an intimate area. It is important to use plant material native to the area--those will thrive and require less upkeep. Depending on the budget I choose to use Sweet Olives, azalea, gardenia, dwarf magnolias will all work in our area. If you can find Old Brick, it is so worth hiring a mason to install it. The look will be nostalgic and will last longer.
People crave nostalgia and I use any materials that reflect or is influenced by the past. Depending on the budget, we can create a space that is intimate and pleasing. There should be soft lighting, maybe running water or a fountain, fragrance from the native plants. All these elements add to the mood of the space.
Lighting is a necessity. The way a light will shine from a scone on the house--that brings ambiance. Adding a Bevolo, youâÂÂre not just adding an ordinary lantern on the house, it is touch of a sculpture. Soft lighting is very calming. Lighting is essential, how can you have an evening party without lighting?
Hope you gained some inspiration and insight for future Landscape projects.
Happy designing!