Traditional landscaping can get a bad rap in design circles. It's not daring; it doesn't push the envelope; it's something you can see everywhere. However, traditional gardens that are done well have a lot going for them. They're instantly appealing, they work well with any number of house styles and they evoke a sense of graciousness and a connection to the past.

Although traditional can take many turns, from English country estate to French styling and even to a hint of the classic cottage garden, one thing that ties traditional landscapes together is greenery. Lawns, or something very similar, anchor the space. Trees play a major role. Garden beds are filled with shrubs and leafy green plants. Sure, there are bursts of color, but overall, green is the dominant theme.

The hardscapes are equally classic. There's a strong sense of geometry underlying the overall space and of everything having its place.

And you know what? It works. People are drawn to traditional spaces. They're peaceful and inviting. They allow you to relax and feel at home while admiring the landscaping. And isn't that what you really want from a space like this? A clean and simple hardscape, plus a traditional lawn and a harmonious planting bed, allows the lines of the house itself to stand out. The lamppost fits the style of the house and serves as an accent piece. Providing a patch of light to mark the start of the path at night isn't a bad idea, either. Donna Lynn - Landscape Designer Filling a garden border with trees, perennials and annuals is a time-honored way of masking the edges of a yard and making it seem larger. Windsor Companies A mass planting of a single plant, a throwback to the days of large estates, is highly effective, especially in a traditional setting. Here the color of the annuals plays off the color of the house yet doesn't compete with the architectural lines. Woodburn & Company Landscape Architecture, LLC These landscape plantings, from garden bed to lawn to overhead vine, fit this shingle-style home perfectly. But think about it: This same landscape would work well with a range of home styles. WINN Design+Build The simple geometric lines of these shrubs and trees complement the architecture of this home rather than compete with it. A palette in shades of green is always soothing and restful. Westover Landscape Design, Inc. This house's style is colonial, so a straightforward traditional landscape might not set it off to advantage. On the other hand, a cottage garden, especially in this rather large space, might be too much. The solution: Combine the two. The lawn, the formal paving to the side of the house and the garden beds filled with shrubs reflect a traditional approach, while the irregular pavers, the picket fence and the blowsy plants behind it add a cottage touch. Milieu Design A garden bed that sits between the sidewalk and the house softens the formal lines of a traditional landscape. Because the more free-form plantings are confined to a smaller area, they don't overwhelm the rest of the space. Richard Kramer A paved brick sitting area that provides the perfect transition between a house and yard is a traditional look that will work in any landscape. Adding cutout planting beds softens the edge between the patio and the house. McDugald-Steele A large lawn may be a traditional approach to a landscape space, but breaking it into tiered levels edged with brick gives the same sense of expansiveness while adding individuality. Woodburn & Company Landscape Architecture, LLC A large lawn may not be the most water-wise choice, but there's no doubt that it's inviting. This yard reminds me of the type in old movies, filled with families and friends. Southview Design Clean lines, a place to sit, a patch of green and symmetrical garden beds. The look may be simple, but it's always going to draw you in. And as this yard proves, you don't need a lot of space to achieve it. Westover Landscape Design, Inc. Stone and wicker make a great combination that has withstood the test of time. Whether you're at the beach, nestled in the heartland or up in the mountains, this look will serve you well. Just add green edging and flowering plants, and you're good to go. Cathy Carr, APLD Creating a space that's calm, restful and inviting is what a traditional landscape is all about, and those are just the notes this inviting patio hits. Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design If you have kids, sometimes less is more. A spot for a swing set and a playhouse, plus plenty of lawn space for games, may not win you prizes for your daring design, but this classic approach to a backyard can serve your family well for years.

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