LandscapeArchitects Identify Trends For 2007 (NAPSA)—According to a recent survey of landscape architects, homeownerswill be addingfirepits andfireplaces for outdoor entertaining in 2007. And they, along with commercial building owners, will be paying a lot more attention to environmentally friendly landscape options, such as adding native plants and managing storm water moreeffectively. The survey identified the most popular requests from homeowners and commercial clients for 2007. In addition to firepits and outdoor fireplaces, requests for sustainable solutions—such as using native plants that require less watering and maintenance— are also popular. Homeowners are requesting that landscape architects design complete outdoor rooms, such as kitchens and bars, for entertain- ing. Water features such as koi ponds, pools and fountains continue to be popular. Incorporating rain gardens and green roofs in home landscapes will add a different—and more sustainable—flavor to 2007 homes. Steve Martino, FASLA, of Phoenix—recipient of both the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Design Medal and the ASLA Residential Design Award of Excellence in 2006— cites private living spaces, outdoor rooms and water features as top homeownerrequests. He also says that clients are coming to him for “sreen solutions” for their homes. Commercial clients are also concerned with “green solutions.” Members polled said they anticipate an increase in requests for better storm water management options, the use of recycled materials and energy-efficient lighting, green roofs and native plantings. According to landscape architects, outdoor fireplaces top the list of expected homeowner requests for 2007. Ann McGinnes, ASLA, of Garland, Texas, says that she expects to see more requests from com- mercial clients for “nontraditional” means of irrigating the landscape and a focus on better management of water resources. Shealso says green roofs are gaining in popularity for both their environmental qualities as well as their aesthetic appeal. Other popular commercial client requests include water features such as fountains and outdoor employee areas. Madeline Ann Sutter, ASLA, of Oriental, N.C., says that these employee areas will be designed as places where they can be outside easily for a respite from work. Sustainable design is bigger than ever and building owners are looking to utilize outdoor spaces even more. The new year will bring a number of exciting and creative design solutions from landscape architects. You can learn more at www.asla.org.
