The (ALCC) Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado (ALCC) list of their top 10 trends should be interesting to Landscape Designers everywhere. Some are old trends, some are kinda new, and there’s one that’s even a little confusing(to me). Providing this list holds true it would mean a lot of work for designers. Take #9 for example:
Landscape Makeovers – The reality TV craze to refurbish homes and landscapes has spilled into the mainstream. Consumers are looking at ways to refresh a dated landscape or start from scratch by incorporating new decks, patios and gardens.
Now I have yet to have anyone specifically say, “I want a makeover for my yard“, Have you or any designers you know had this type of language used when discussing their landscape?
Some of the others on the top 10 have been around for awhile; including, sustainable, big impact, lighting, multicultural, bringing the indoors out, and water features. One of these trends used some terminology I am not familiar with-“Scraper Planning”
Scraper Planning – The continued boom of scrapers and pop-tops in Colorado’s older neighborhoods creates the need for proper planning and planting to ensure the landscape is as functional and attractive as the new or remodeled home.
I would guess , the house is removed in an older neighborhood and replaced by something bigger? Or a 2nd story is put on an old ranch? I’d like someone to fill me in on these terms-get me up to speed(so to speak). If I am correct this has been going on for quite some time and has caused considerable problems in other parts of the country.
Finally #10 should make every professional Landscape Designer feel good . . .
Planning is in – More homeowners are looking at blueprints to help them design their landscapes by creating garden plans on their own or hiring professionals to create well-designed yards to fit their lifestyles and budgets.
Call the Professional, here’s a trend I could live with.
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Addendum: I found this story on the Landscape Management website.
The Whispering Crane Institute 
Yes… you are correct. My LA problem is classic: overpromise/underdeliver. Had I known that June would loom before we even got started, I’d have a totally different outlook. Instead, I was told “hey don’t worry… there’s still snow on the ground… we’ll have something soon.”
There is no snow on the ground now. We are no further along.
Frankly Rick, this whole thing makes me sick. And the Village is now involved. I’m tempted to just screw it all and put in a pool. They’ll come and build it when they say.