Jan 28 2008
Tuscan Landscape Design: Planning Your First Home
Tuscany landscape design did not actually originate in Tuscany, Italy but was inspired by all of the visual richness and style that Tuscany has to offer. The Tuscan landscape design is a product of a long evolution. Layers of history surround the creation of this landscaping design. Note that Tuscany is one of the most artistic places in the world, so you can just imagine what great beauty inspired the creation of Tuscan landscape designs.
What Makes This So Special?
The Tuscan landscaping design is like a journey to the beautiful old world. The classic design that is the trademark of Tuscan art is very much prominent in Tuscan landscape designs. Metal craft and pottery are often used in this type of design. For instance, the iron wrought benches and plenty of terra cotta planters are some of the most popular components.
In most cases, the designs of all of the planters in a garden are quite unique. Planters that are shaped like classical vases are often preferred over those more modern designs. You see, the primary objective of this type of design is to achieve a kind of old Mediterranean atmosphere that is laid back but very artistic.
Aside from the planters and the iron chairs, most Tuscan landscaping designs include elegant and classical fountains. Wall fountains are especially popular in this type of design. Most Tuscan landscape designers prefer the wall fountains over those free standing ones because the wall fountains give the impression of old elegance.
When it comes to plants, you will definitely find a lot of species of plants in a Tuscan landscaping design. Plants and herbs from the Mediterranean are usually used in this type of design. However, if you do not have access to Mediterranean plants or if you live in an area where these types of plants do not thrive, you can just use whatever local species you have available.
How Much Should You Spend On This?
The amount of money that you need to spend on your Italian fantasy garden will depend much on your projected costs of supplies, labor and any lighting. If your Tuscan landscaping design features some elaborate fountains, chairs and jars, you can expect to pay a lot of money for this stuff. On the other hand, if you only have a very simple design, you will really need to spend a lot of money just to get things in their proper places.
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I enjoyed your site. I keep surfing to try to find out the name of the cedar that is so common to Tuscany. I’m having a difficult time………..I’d think this would be easy. Can you help? Thanks, Gordon
Hi Gordon,
I’m not sure if I can help but do you mean the Italian Cypress Evergreen? You can see images of them at http://www.lifeinitaly.com/garden/cypress.asp. I hope this helps and good luck in finding them.
Sirena