 |
| Repetitive plantings of Caryopteris (Blue Mist Shrub) and flowering trees lead the eye to the focal point at the end of this pathway. |
An elaborate statue, a grouping of mature Blue Spruce trees, a comfortable bench, or a flashy perennial Hibiscus are all examples of things that can serve as a focal point in the garden. They carry a good deal of visual weight because of their size, shape, or color and they provide a place for the eye to rest when taking in the view.
 |
| In this landscape, the large pot in the center of the garden stops the eye part way through soas not to miss the beautiful plantings there. After resting there for a moment, the eye continues through the landscape to the bench that offers rest at the end of the pathway. |
Proper placement and scale are vital to the effectiveness of a focal point. If well-placed, it becomes a destination in the garden, like a bench at the end of the path. If it’s too small, it won’t be noticed, but if it’s too large, it will overwhelm the space. You may need to experiment with a few items before you settle on a proper focal point for the space. Keep in mind that the focal point of your garden can be a borrowed view from your neighbor’s landscape. If they have a gorgeous flowering Dogwood you can see from your deck, frame the view of their Dogwood with plants in your own yard.
Return to Garden Design Elements Index