What’s Your Landscape Personality?

What’s your landscape personality?

If you’ve ever looked around your neighborhood for inspiration for your landscape and felt underwhelmed, you’re not alone. Much of what we see in suburban landscapes today traces back to mid-century design principles that, over time, have been simplified into predictable formulas: a few hardy shrubs, wide stretches of mulch, and plants selected mostly for their ability to survive neglect. These landscapes are easy to maintain, but they rarely inspire.

On the other end of the spectrum are native plant gardens, which take seriously the responsibility of stewarding our planet, working with native plants, and supporting wildlife. Yet for some, they can feel visually chaotic, especially when plantings lack intentional structure. 

With these two extremes, it’s no wonder people don’t know where to start with their landscapes. The good news? You don’t have to choose between sterile and wild. Most landscape styles fall into a simple framework defined by two spectrums: Naturalistic to Formal and Traditional to Modern. See which style resonates with you the most. 

Naturalistic + Modern

This style is rooted in the New Perennial movement, often associated with designers like Piet Oudolf. Think sweeping drifts of grasses and perennials, layered textures, and plantings that mimic nature but are thoughtfully composed. These landscapes feel immersive, relaxed, and alive. They celebrate seasonality, movement, and biodiversity, while still maintaining an intentional design. If you love the look of prairies, meadows, and gardens that change beautifully through the year, this may be your style.

Formal + Modern

Clean lines, strong geometry, and a restrained plant palette define this personality. These spaces often feature structured layouts, repeated forms, and bold materials like concrete, steel, and stone. Plants are used strategically rather than abundantly. Think neatly arranged ornamental grasses, sculptural trees, and minimal color schemes. This style appeals to those who love simplicity, order, and a contemporary aesthetic that feels polished and architectural.

Naturalistic + Traditional

This is the cottage garden at heart: romantic, charming, overflowing with flowers. You might see flowering perennials, heirloom shrubs, and winding paths, all arranged in a way that feels timeless and personal. 

Formal + Traditional

This is the classic garden many people picture: symmetrical layouts, defined beds, clipped hedges, and a sense of permanence. Inspired by historic estates and traditional European gardens, these landscapes emphasize structure and balance. If you’re drawn to order, tradition, and a sense of elegance, this personality might resonate most.

Story and illustration by Kayla Oldham Hammitt

P.S. Click here for more garden inspiration: Rooted In Memory.