Small Garden Landscape Ideas:
Circular Driveway

This landscape design idea was created for a circular driveway. However, with a little imagination, it could be altered to serve several applications including small gardens.
(More on this design below)

This design displays the principle of unity. The beds and walkway are created from the same material as the home. In this case it was brick but it could be flagstone, cobblestone, or any other material. Using the same material made this island an extension of the home instead of a separated area.

Planting ideas can be adapted to any area. We did use intentional plantings of groups of 3's to create unity and balance. Using a few varieties of plants repeatedly throughout the garden will help with balance as well as unity.

The ground cover here can be altered to whatever is locally available to you. And, of course, should be under lain with a quality landscape fabric to separate the surface and ground cover and to prevent weeds.

Colors, textures, plants, and elements can all be changed to match your home, atmosphere, and availability.

In this small garden design example, the area is surrounded by 30 feet of concrete driveway. Most times in situations like this, you may have to cut the concrete to get an automated drip or sprinkler system to the area. It is possible to water drill this distance as we've done it many times. However, it is quite a distance.

This design is actually a good example of asymetrical design (see Principles Of Landscape Design). Both sides of the dividing line are different. However, unity is still created using plants and materials.

The real beauty and impact of this circular driveway design is because of the use of different levels. Good landscaping can use more than one level to create character and interest. Also, in the use of small gardens, levels can help create the illusion of more space.

From the street view, this design is pleasing and interesting. The two taller beds have been planted with 11 foot Mondale Pines which create a back drop and boundary from both directions. While they will get much larger, the trees still won't hide the home.

If this circular driveway design idea was used in a small garden design (excluding the Mondales, or not), the different levels would give the illusion of more space.

See also:
Landscape Design Idea For A Circular Driveway
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