- 24th February, 2026
- By Andrea Uren
How Landscape Design Enhances Property Value and Outdoor Living
The way we use and see our homes is changing. Thoughtful landscaping now plays a central role in how a home feels, functions, and ultimately how it’s valued.
For many homeowners in the Mornington Peninsula, a professionally designed outdoor living space does more than improve appearances. It adds purpose and longevity to a property while creating outdoor environments that genuinely improve one’s lifestyle.
Ultimately, redesigning the outdoors is a smart move and a trend that’s growing among residents in the area.
About Landscape Design and Property Value
It’s said that a well-designed garden can increase property value by 15–20% (when it's functional). First impressions matter, and buyers often form opinions within seconds of arriving at a property.
Gardens are the first thing one often sees, and a cohesive, welcoming landscape sets expectations before anyone steps inside. A landscape redesign brings balance, flow, and consideration, instead of a space with disconnected features.
For example, pathways that guide movements and plantings that frame views signal quality and care - and buyers notice it immediately. We’ve seen many homes fetch competitive prices with nicer outdoors.
Designing for Lifestyle and Functionality
When an outdoor space is designed for functionality, it naturally commands a higher value. Here are some landscaping styles that can enhance your home's value in the property market.
1. Alfresco Areas Designed for Flow
Large-format paving that extends from the kitchen or dining area creates a seamless transition between indoors and out. This eliminates awkward steps, improves accessibility, and allows people to move easily between cooking, dining, and relaxing zones. It’s especially useful for families and entertainers.
2. Firepit Zones With Natural Access Paths
Curved gravel paths leading to a firepit gently guide movement through the garden. Rather than cutting across lawn areas, guests naturally follow the path, preserving planting and keeping the space tidy. Gravel drains well, requires minimal maintenance, and adds a relaxed, informal feel.
3. Planting Used as Privacy
Layered planting using feature trees, screening shrubs, and soft underplanting creates privacy without enclosing the space. This approach blocks neighbouring views while maintaining openness and airflow. Strategically placed greenery also provides shade, reducing heat build-up on paving and around pools.
4. Pergolas Built for Real Lifestyle Needs
If space permits, pergolas designed with timber or steel structures, shade battens, and climbing plants create usable outdoor rooms. They reduce summer heat while allowing winter sun through, have the ability to define spaces without walls, and work beautifully near pools or lounge areas.
5. Pool Areas Designed for Safety and Beauty
Thoughtfully positioned glass fencing maintains open views while meeting safety regulations. Additionally, feature planting softens fence lines and avoids a boxed-in feel. We also see mindful placements of gates and paths so children can be easily supervised.
6. No-Lawn or Low-Lawn Spaces That Still Feel Green
Crushed rock, paving, and layered planting can replace large lawn areas while still providing usable green spaces. These garden styles reduce maintenance, prevent muddy patches in winter, and provide versatile zones for seating, play, and relaxation.
Sustainable and Low-Maintenance Landscaping
Modern buyers and homeowners place great value on landscapes that are both beautiful and responsible. Sustainable design that incorporates native and climate-appropriate plants, along with water-efficient irrigation, has become highly popular.
These outdoor choices reduce long-term maintenance and water use while keeping gardens healthy year-round. Beyond environmental benefits, sustainable landscapes appeal strongly to buyers who want easy, future-proof homes.
Landscape Design in Melbourne: A Good Property Investment
Professional landscape designers provide strategic thinking, technical expertise, and long-term vision - all of which are critical for your property’s value.
Designers plan gardens to mature gracefully over five, ten, or even twenty years, avoiding overcrowding and excessive maintenance. They understand drainage, levels, and soil conditions and can resolve potential issues before construction begins, which saves you costly fixes later.
Designers can also help you shape the flow and usability of your garden, ensuring that your outdoor areas feel natural to move through and enjoyable to use. An experienced designer guides your budget wisely, recommends suitable materials, and provides peace of mind throughout the process.
Conclusion
A professionally designed landscape improves the way a home functions, supports everyday living, and adds lasting financial value. Investing in landscape design ensures your garden matures beautifully for years to come. Whether you’re upgrading for lifestyle, resale, or long-term enjoyment, quality design is the foundation of a better home.
If you’re looking to transform your outdoors, contact Foliage Landscaping for a free consultation and quote.
FAQs
1. How does landscape design increase property value?
Landscape design increases property value by creating a strong first impression and demonstrating that the home has been thoughtfully planned and well cared for. Buyers respond positively to gardens that feel established, functional, and low-maintenance, making your landscape project a good investment.
2. What are the most valuable landscape features for homes?
The most valuable features combine lifestyle, beauty, and durability. Pools, entertaining areas, quality paving, mature planting, privacy screening, and integrated lighting consistently add value. Additionally, features that make outdoor areas easy to use, such as covered dining zones or seamless transitions from indoors, are especially attractive to buyers.
3. Is professional landscape design worth it?
Professional design helps avoid costly mistakes like drainage issues, poor levels, unsuitable plant choices, or poorly placed structures. It also allows homeowners to maximise their space and plan for future stages. Our tip is to create dedicated zones for dining, lounging, kids’ play, a fire pit, a pool, or quiet morning coffee.
4. How can landscaping improve outdoor living?
Landscaping improves flow, provides shade and comfort, increases privacy, extends outdoor use into the evening with lighting, and reduces garden maintenance challenges. Well-designed gardens support your daily routines and special occasions, making it feel like a natural extension of the home rather than an afterthought.
5. Does Foliage Landscaping offer design and construction services?
Yes. Foliage Landscaping provides both design and construction services, managing the entire journey from initial consultation through to final handover. Having design and build under one roof ensures clear communication, fewer surprises, and a finished landscape that truly reflects the original vision.