423.488.8905 Step into a garden and you’ll feel it, color creates emotion. It shapes how a space feels and invites connection. For homeowners designing a peaceful retreat, or businesses looking to create inviting outdoor areas, using the right colors can make a major impact.
At Big Sky Landscapes, we focus on building spaces that not only look good but also support the environment and feel like an extension of your personality. One of the best ways to do that? Thoughtful use of color.
Using Color to Influence Mood
Color isn’t just decoration, it speaks without words. Certain colors bring calm, while others give energy or warmth. Knowing how to apply color well helps set the right tone for your space.
- Warm Colors (reds, oranges, yellows): These are energetic, welcoming, and work well in high-traffic areas. They draw attention and add life to patios and entryways.
- Cool Colors (blues, purples, greens): Great for calm, quiet areas like shaded seating spots or meditation gardens. These tones feel soothing and natural.
- Neutral Colors (whites, grays, browns): These give balance and structure. They don’t compete for attention, making them perfect for supporting bold colors or letting the plants’ textures stand out.
With the right balance, you can create zones that each offer a different experience, an inviting front yard, a peaceful corner, or a lively entertaining area.
Simple Color Schemes That Work
You don’t need to be a designer to apply basic color planning. Here are a few combinations that are easy to use:
- Single Hue (Monochrome): Pick one color and use light and dark versions of it. For example, different shades of purple can bring depth without clashing.
- Neighboring Colors: Choose tones that are next to each other on the color wheel (like red, orange, and yellow). These blend easily and feel natural.
- Opposites: Use colors that are across from each other on the wheel (like purple and yellow). This pairing makes each shade stand out boldly.
- Trios: Combine three equally spaced colors (such as red, yellow, and blue) for a playful, well-balanced look.
Our team helps you select colors that not only look great together but also match your property’s exterior, surrounding hardscapes, and your maintenance goals.
Color Isn’t Just About Flowers
A lot of people focus only on blooms, but that’s just part of the picture. The most successful outdoor spaces use color in many forms.
- Foliage: Leaves add rich tones year-round. Try using plants like purple heuchera, gray lamb’s ear, or hostas with variegated patterns for steady visual interest.
- Stonework & Hardscaping: Pathways, retaining walls, patios, and outdoor furniture all bring long-term color into the design. Earthy stone or wood tones can either stand out or blend softly with the garden.
- Seasonal Change: Plants with colorful bark, berries, or fall leaves keep things interesting throughout the year, not just in spring or summer.
- Decor & Details: Garden containers, art, lighting, and even mulch color all add to your space’s palette. These small details often tie the whole design together.
Common Problems We Solve with Color Planning
“My outdoor space looks random.”
This happens when colors aren’t working together. We create a color plan that blends plants, features, and furniture into one complete look.
“Everything fades in winter.”
We mix in trees and shrubs that bring winter interest, evergreens, branches with color, and plants that hold berries, so there’s always something to look at.
“I don’t know what to choose.”
With so many plant options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. We take care of that by learning what you like and what your space allows, then recommend native, long-lasting plants that work.
Big Sky Landscapes: Focused on Design
At Big Sky Landscapes, we build outdoor areas that reflect your personality and last through the seasons. Our work blends thoughtful design, sustainable plant choices, and professional care.
- We tailor color plans that match your property and your preferences.
- We focus on native trees and long-lasting plants for every season.
- Our “Story Book Tree” option adds personal meaning by dedicating a native tree with a custom plaque. Learn more about our Story Book Tree here.
- We install everything with care, from garden beds and trees to pathways and stonework.
- We offer maintenance to keep your outdoor area in great shape.
If you want a garden that’s colorful, sustainable, and feels like an extension of your home or business, we’re here to help.Get in touch with us by filling the information in this link or call us today at 423.488.8905.