atomic LANDSCAPESMid-Century Modern Landscape Design

mcm THEN...When your Eichler or Rummer was a baby, it had a swath of lawn or gravel and some juniper destined to become overgrown.

mcm NOW...There is no distinct MCM landscape style. Many have landscapes without connection to the home.

Not horrible, just boring. This landscape could be plopped down in front of any home. MCM gems are not just “any” home.

five KEYSThere is not a typical atomic landscape, but there are principles that can guide design. Here are my 5 keys to Mid-Century Modern landscape design:

Rummer in SW Portland. A blank slate for this landscape designer.

1* RESPECTMCM homes do not need to be hidden, but showcased. Treat their simple beauty with respect. Design with the home ever in mind.

Keep a picture of the home in front of you while designing the landscape.

2* STRUCTUREStrong lines in the landscape will complement the lines of the home. Hardscape is often the key.

Hardscape imposing order. Plants can grow wild without obscuring the lines.

3* FUNCTIONALThe atomic ranch was meant to be easy to build, easy to live in. The landscape should be easy to use, easy to maintain. Low-care solutions, like river

rock and succulents, are at home in the MCM landscape.

4* RESTRAINTMCM homes often have blank walls that need softening and roof lines that should be uninterrupted. Choose plants and placement carefully.

Two blank wall panels to soften and a narrow window to highlight.

5* MODERNThe 2nd “M”. Modern Japanese, French, Post-Modern...Just keep it modern.

mcm LANDSCAPINGI love these homes and love designing landscapes for them. Please visit our blog for more. Please ask questions or leave me any tips you have for creating atomic gardens.

Ben Bowen- Landscape designer at Ross NW Watergardens in Portland, OR.