Designing Outdoor Spaces That Promote Health and Well-being
In the ever-evolving realm of building biology, the emphasis on creating sustainable, non-toxic, and health-enhancing outdoor spaces is gaining traction among environmentally conscious homeowners. For those residing in regions like Victoria, Australia, adopting sustainable landscaping practices isn’t just a trend—it’s a vital component of living a healthier lifestyle. This blog post delves into how you can design your garden and outdoor areas to foster relaxation, connect with nature, and ensure sustainability.
The Core Principles of Sustainable Landscaping
Sustainable landscaping integrates practices that support the natural environment, conserve resources, and minimise chemical use that could impact both health and the ecosystem. For new homeowners, understanding your soil and these principles is the first step toward creating an outdoor space that truly embodies the ethos of building biology.
Plant Selection: Go Native and Organic
1. Choose Native Plants:
Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil, requiring less water and fewer fertilisers. They are typically more resistant to local pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions. In Victoria, species like the Lemon-scented Gum and the Kangaroo Paw not only add beauty but also support local biodiversity.
2. Organic Edible Gardens:
Growing your own vegetables and herbs can promote a healthier diet and reduce your carbon footprint. Use organic compost and natural pest control methods to enhance soil fertility and plant health without the use of harmful pesticides.
Knowing the history of the soil is vital to ensuring the soil itself is not contaminated and likely to leach heavy metals and toxic chemicals into edibles. For example, if the site is in a previously industrial area, near a road/railway with heavy traffic, has remnants of buiding materials, is near a golf course or park, the soil may be unsuitable for growing food in.
Material Choices: Safe and Sustainable
1. Natural Stone and Recycled Paving:
Opt for materials like reclaimed bricks, locally-sourced natural stone or compacted sand for pathways and patios. These materials are durable, require little maintenance, and blend seamlessly into natural settings without the risk of leaching harmful chemicals. As a bonus, these materials are likely to allow rainwater to seep into the soil and prevent burdening stormwater systems with additional runoff in storms.
2. Eco-friendly Water Features:
Incorporate water features using solar-powered pumps to create soothing soundscapes that attract wildlife while conserving energy. It is essential to make sure water is not stagnant and gets adequate sunlight to minimise the chance of mosquitoes breeding in the water.
Water Conservation Techniques
1. Rainwater Harvesting Systems:
Install rainwater tanks to capture and reuse water for irrigation. This not only conserves water but also ensures that your plants are watered with chemical-free water, which is better for plant health and the environment. As with permeable paving, capturing rainwater from the roof can prevent overloading stormwater systems.
2. Drip Irrigation:
Implement a drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the base of plants. This method minimises water wastage and reduces the likelihood of waterborne diseases.
Enhancing Well-being Through Design
1. Create Zones for Relaxation:
Designate areas for relaxation and meditation. Consider a quiet corner decked with comfortable seating surrounded by fragrant plants and shaded by trees to create a tranquil retreat.
2. Encourage Wildlife:
Include elements such as bird feeders, native flowering plants, and small ponds to attract birds, bees, frogs and butterflies. Interacting with wildlife can greatly enhance mental well-being and help pollinate your garden.
Landscaping as Screening
Use landscaping techniques to buffer your garden from external noise and chemical sources by planting dense shrubbery to create natural barriers against pollutant drift and noise from nearby traffic. This buffer can also act as a wind break.
Pest Pathways
A special mention needs to be made to ensure plants do not come in contact with buildings as they can provide an easy pathway into houses and sheds for ants, termites, mice and other critters. Avoid gardens and pots at the base of walls. Minimising the amount of water going into the ground near the building also helps to protect the ground from swelling which can cause the footings to move and cracks to appear.
Conclusion
Sustainable landscaping is an extension of your home’s health-focused design. By choosing the right plants and materials and designing with water conservation and relaxation in mind, your garden can become a cornerstone of your well-being and environmental stewardship.
Architecture with Angie 