Survey Reveals Top Ten Design Trends for Residential Landscape Architecture

Words: Bronzella Cleveland

Rainwater/graywater harvesting top trend for 2016

Sustainable design is the big trend for residential landscapes, according to the 2016 Residential Landscape Architecture Trends Survey conducted by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). The top trend—rainwater/graywater harvesting—reflects a growing consumer demand for beautiful residential landscapes that also save water.

Landscape architects were asked to rate the expected popularity of a variety of residential outdoor design elements in 2016. The survey was fielded Feb. 4 through Feb. 18, 2016, with 803 responding.

Respondents expected the greatest demand for outdoor living spaces that are environmentally sustainable, reduce water costs, and are low maintenance.

Here are the top 10 project types with the expected highest consumer demand:

Rainwater/graywater harvesting – 88%
Native plants – 86%
Native/adapted drought-tolerant plants – 85%
Low-maintenance landscapes – 85%
Permeable paving – 77%
Fire pits/fireplaces – 75%
Food/vegetable gardens (including orchards, vineyards, etc.) – 75%
Rain gardens – 73%
Drip/water-efficient irrigation – 72%
Reduced lawn area – 72%

Water-focused design elements dominated this year’s top 10 list and reflect consumers’ growing commitment to landscapes that reduce water use and stormwater runoff, says Nancy Somerville, Hon. ASLA, executive vice president and CEO of ASLA. “Water issues are hot topics for many communities, and many people are turning to landscape architects for creative green infrastructure solutions,” said Somerville. “Sustainable residential landscape architecture, if part of a broader integrated site design, can dramatically reduce water usage and stormwater runoff over the long term while creating a healthy residential environment.”

For more details, visit www.asla.org/residentialinfo.

Achieving Precision: How Top Masonry Crews Deliver Consistent Openings
June 2025

Let’s be honest—if you’ve spent any time in the field as a mason, you’ve probably had at least one “memorable” encounter with a wood buck that didn’t quite go as planned. Picture this: It’s a hot Tuesday afternoon, you’re racing weather, and someone—no o

Commercial vs. Residential Projects: Which Is Right For You
June 2025

As masonry contractors, we all face plenty of challenges - from the cost of maintaining safety standards to dealing with workforce issues. But one question has stayed constant throughout my 30+ years in the industry: Which is better - commercial or reside

Only a Few Rooms Left at the Waterfront Collection: Register for Midyear Now!
June 2025

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND REGISTER FOR THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY MIDYEAR If you’re thinking about attending the MCAA’s 2025 Midyear Meeting on Mackinac Island, now is the time to act. Due to the demand, our original room block at the host hotel, The Grand,

Protecting the Backbone of Construction: Understanding PPE for Masonry Contractors
June 2025

Masonry contractors are among the unsung heroes of construction, shaping the world around us with their skilled craftsmanship. However, this demanding profession also comes with a unique set of challenges, including exposure to hazardous materials, heavy