Modern Contemporary Gardens are formal—bold, organized, well kept, sleek—landscape designs that are popular in Southern California, especially along the coast. Symmetrical, clean lines and bold patterns allow for a clean, fresh style. As an extension of your home’s interior, the purpose must be to create an outdoor room with straight or geometrical lines with grids of green plants having formal shapes and interesting textures. The focus is on the hardscape, not the plants. Focal points may be a formal wall fountain, sculpture, or painted wall with colored glass inlay. Outdoor lighting is a critical component in the modern garden. Modern Contemporary Elements: The outdoor “room” must feature materials such as concrete, metal, colored glass, and wood. Natural grey concrete, weathered corten steel and wood decking is common. With contrast as your goal, blacks and silvers must be accented properly with bright colors. Less is better, meaning, pick two or three focal points in the yard and feature one element for each. Sleek walls of various heights, built-in seating on retaining walls accented with colored cushions. Rectilinear pools, spas, and fountains (add fire if possible) with formal waterfall features are standard elements. Formal-shaped fire pits with fire glass works well on […]