Urban Elements Sustainable Landscapes
LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND INSTALLATION | ORGANIC LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE
SERVICES
LANDSCAPE DESIGN
We believe the basis to a great landscape is an exceptional design. Our approach begins by cultivating a deep understanding of the site, the surroundings, the clients, and the intended uses for the space. We then use this information to guide the design and create a landscape that will fulfill the needs of all of these elements.
Urban Elements has a primary focus on sustainability. We use a majority of native plant materials and incorporate edible and useful plants as much as possible. We work with natural stone as the primary element for hardscape, including soil retention, pathways, patio space, etc.
We are mindful of water conservation and implement various techniques to allow the site to absorb water from impervious surfaces and reduce the need for supplemental irrigation.
The design process is different with each client. Some designs are very basic and conceptual, while others are more detailed and extensive. We strive to work with a broad spectrum of people and pride ourselves on bringing forth our best in every opportunity.
INSTALLATION
As a garden is organic, so is the process. Following the design phase we move into installation. As you begin to work the site and create the infrastructure you see the vision you've been molding in your mind and on paper come to life.
Pathways are established, slopes retained, patterns of movement and function become defined. Then the layers of plants come in to tie it all together.
Sometimes new ideas arise during installation and new concepts get implemented. This type of discovery is often exciting because it is generated out of an even deeper understanding of the space that is gained by being in the process.
Keith, the owner, has been doing this work for over 15 years, and the physical hands on creation is still his favorite part. Moving each stone intentionally until it feels like it has been there forever, making everything feel like it is a place that happened naturally and should be exactly what it is, all the while being something refined just the right amount to fit within the context
DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE
Once a landscape is implemented it enters an ongoing process of growing and changing. Developing and maintaining a landscape is essentially what takes a design and installation into its maturity.
A design sets a landscape forth over a period of time. It often takes several years for the intended outcome to be achieved. Throughout the process the landscape will benefit from having a knowledgeable and skilled caretaker who sees that it develops in the best possible way and helps it adapt to the various conditions that present themselves.
Urban Elements works with clients to maintain landscapes we create as well as landscapes that are already developed. A garden never stops growing and changing and sometimes the needs of the space or those who use it change as well. We pride ourselves on identifying these relationships and finding creative ways to adapt each space to provide a consistently ideal environment.