Landscape Descriptions: A Homeowner’s Guide

Planning an outdoor project often starts with ideas, inspiration photos, and general goals. A landscape description turns those ideas into a clear, usable plan. In other words, a landscape description helps homeowners explain what an outdoor space should look like, how the space should function, and how the space should feel within a specific area of land.

What Is a Landscape Description?

A landscape description is a written explanation of an outdoor space that defines its layout, features, materials, plants, and intended use. Namely, it describes a specific area of land by explaining its natural features, built elements, and how those components interact. Instead of listing individual items the way a landscape site plan would, a landscape description explains how landforms, plantings, and structures work together to create a cohesive and functional landscape.

Landscape descriptions apply to many settings, from a residential yard to an urban landscape, and they can reference both natural landscapes and spaces shaped by human activities.

Why This Matters for Homeowners

Homeowners commonly use landscape descriptions during early planning stages or when meeting with a Landscape Architect. They help reduce confusion, meaning less potential for costly mistakes due to miscommunication.

What to Include in a Landscape Description

A strong landscape description includes both visual details and functional priorities. The sections below outline the core elements homeowners should define when describing the nature of landscapes on their property.

Overall Layout and Flow

This section explains how the outdoor space is organized and how people move through it. Layout descriptions often address topography, walkways, open areas, transitions between zones, and how different landforms influence movement. Clear descriptions of flow help guide design decisions and improve usability.

Hardscape Features

Hardscape features provide structure and durability within an outdoor space shaped by human activities. A landscape description should identify patios, walkways, retaining walls, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, and seating areas. Ideally, these descriptions should include details like materials (wood, metal, etc.) and finishes (glossy, satin, etc.).

Planting and Softscape

Softscape elements include trees, shrubs, flowers, ground cover, and lawn areas. These plantings contribute to local ecosystems and influence how the landscape responds to precipitation and seasonal changes.

Lighting & Other Features

A complete landscape description includes landscape lighting, water features, privacy elements, fencing, and more.

In some properties, it may be necessary to reference a specific type of landscape, such as a wetland buffer, a wooded edge, or a transitional zone between managed and natural areas. This way, landscape contractors can know exactly what to expect when working with your property.

Function

This section defines how you intend to use your space or what function you want it to serve. Is the space for entertaining, relaxing, outdoor dining, recreation, or pet-friendly activities? Clear functional goals help shape layout, materials, and long-term design success across different types of landscape conditions.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make

Two of the most common mistakes homeowners make when providing descriptions to contractors are

1. Using vague language: Phrases such as "nice landscaping" or "modern style" are subjective, meaning they are open to misinterpretation.
2. Ignoring major considerations: Topography, drainage, soil conditions, and surrounding land can all affect the proposed worksite. Ignoring these factors can lead to design challenges, especially when working near wetlands, slopes, or mixed-use urban landscapes.

How Landscape Professionals Use Landscape Descriptions

Landscape professionals use landscape descriptions as a foundation for design development. These descriptions guide site planning, material selection, and construction details while accounting for existing landforms, ecosystems, and site constraints.

Poynter Landscape Architecture & Construction works with homeowners to refine landscape descriptions into clear, buildable plans that reflect property conditions, design preferences, and practical considerations tied to the natural world.

Landscape Description FAQs

Do homeowners need a landscape description when hiring a designer?

Not every designer or architect requires a description, but it can absolutely help a designer get a better idea of your vision.

Can a landscape description help control project costs?

Yes. A clear landscape description defines project scope early, which helps reduce surprises and supports more accurate budgeting related to materials, grading, and construction complexity.

What are the key elements to include in a landscape description?

Key elements of a good landscape description include overall layout and flow, hardscape features, plantings, lighting, special features, topography, and intended use of the space.

Should a landscape description be updated over time?

Homeowners may need to update their landscape descriptions for new projects if their needs, budgets, or property conditions change.