Design Lessons from New York's High Line: Urban Chic for Your Backyard

A visit to the High Line's new expansion—an elevated rail line transformed into a mile-long greenway along Manhattan's West Side—reveals landscape ideas you can adapt for urban chic at home.

Reclaimed Materials as Design Framework

Old railroad ties and tracks become perfect frames for flower beds. The mix of live greenery, concrete, rusted metal, and warm wood creates an artful palette against the city backdrop.

Native Plants: Tall, Free, and Thoughtful

Let natives grow tall and free—placement and relationships matter more than manicured restraint. Untouched sections clarify the difference between neglected weeds and carefully positioned natives.

Climbing Plants to Hide Eyesores

Chain-link fence or CMU walls? Vines and climbers make them disappear.

Seating as Sculpture

Place seating throughout in varied sizes and configurations. Sculptural benches, tall-backed benches, multi-tiered amphitheater seating—each serves function and form.

Elevated Lawn Platform

Raise a small lawn square above the main level on a platform with gravel, concrete, or stone below. Dramatically reduces water bills.

Modern Water Features

Water saved on lawn maintenance funds a sculptural fountain.

Wildlife Amenities

Provide food and water for butterflies, birds, squirrels. A modern sculptural bird feeder/refuge becomes a showstopper.

Frame Views with Architecture

Arches, gateways, gazebos direct the eye to interesting vistas.

Unexpected Materials

Rusted metal strips welded together for planter edges—texture, scale, and color against greenery create welcome surprise.

Playful Furnishings

Neon green chairs among gunmetal grey bistro sets add design edge and delight.

Next: Learn more about the High Line
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