The Difference Between Formal and Informal Landscape Design

When you think of the style for the garden, you might consider formal and informal. The main reason behind creating the garden is to make some sort of order (or formality) from what is a natural (informal) environment.

Formal Landscape Design

It is a garden that has been laid out in a uniform manner with formal lines and in keeping with the principles of classical design. Hard landscaping is typically employed to define the primary designs. However, the plants can also be arranged symmetrically in rows or beds

Informal Landscape Garden

This space has been designed casually and has a few straight lines typically based on organic curves and curving lines. It can take inspiration from nature or natural surroundings. This type of garden is often called naturalistic.

Planned Pathways in Formal Landscape Design

A well-planned path or through formal gardens is the most effective method to experience its beauty. The paths should be large enough to allow two people to sit side-by-side. Stone, gravel, and brick are great options for pavers. A stone edge placed three inches higher than the completed pathway makes for the soil with good drainage and marks the edges. Pathways made of grass are also great in formal gardens. They outline the geometric shapes of the beds for planting and join to create the overall layout of the gardens.

Strong Axis

The paths are visual vision lines or axes that take you to the most dramatic ends, usually adorned by an urn or statue, arch, or gate that captivates and draws the eyes. Sculptural forms of evergreen plants are set between the entrance and exit. This pattern is usually not found in informal landscape design.

Structural Appeal

A long-lasting appeal to the structure, even after the annuals fade in a formal garden, draws attention to the structure that is its layout. The beautiful design of its pathways and beds and the stunning elegance of its brickwork stones, statues, fountains, and pots make for a beautiful scene even in winter. The evergreen shapes also help retain its design and beauty at any time of the year. 

Defined Borders

Definition of Borders is the most interesting feature of a formal garden. Many formal gardens are considered a collection of rooms characterized by high, clipped hedges or brick walls. The beauty of informal landscape design lies in its undefined and rugged borders.

Terrace

As the height of the property is considered a requirement to ensure comfort, a higher viewing platform known as a terrace appeared in Persian gardening culture. Terraces were built to observe the enclosed orchard or paradise, which formed a tent for ceremonies. In gardening, a terrace is a feature that is a flat, raised, or graveled area that overlooks an area. A terrace in a formal garden is raised to keep the main structure or house dry. It creates a bridge between the structure's tough elements and the garden's more soft materials.

Pathways 

Pathways facilitate walking in the garden. Pathways in gardens are pathways that connect various parts of the garden. They also provide access to the other features of the garden and the resources within it. While they serve a practical function, they also add an aesthetic value to the gardens. Many gardens are highlighted by their paths, which highlight the layout and other aspects.

Topiary

Topiary refers to the art of making sculptures using cutting trees and other plants. The plants and trees employed in the topiary have tiny needles or leaves with dense foliage. They have columns or compact growth patterns. Contemporary topiary wire cages with shapes are often used to direct untutored shears. Still, traditional topiary is based on a steady and patient hand. Ivy with small leaves can also cover a cage and give the appearance of a topiary within a couple of months.

It is better to envision a style between these two extremes and blends elements from both. There isn't a way to determine the right combination of formality and informality. As per the notion of harmony in the garden, the most effective selection complements the environment and your personal preferences. Don't hesitate to contact our landscapers if you have any questions!