The layout greatly simplifies subsequent construction work. This allows you to place all the necessary elements for a comfortable stay in a small area. How to arrange this correctly and beautifully can be seen in the photo of the zoning of the site. This will help to correctly divide the territory, taking into account the total area, location of the house, the number of residents, and their interests.
Important parts of the land plot are residential and commercial zones. Therefore, their planning is done first. The remaining part is divided into a garden, vegetable garden, and recreation areas.
A well-groomed plot surrounded by greenery will become the pride of the owner.
Developing a plan
Zoning of the territory depends on the shape of the site, type of relief, and terrain features. It is necessary to sketch the plan, while marking the boundaries and objects on paper. When dividing the territory into zones, they start from the house, take into account the entrance to it, and the windows.
Owners of private households must decide in advance how to zone the site. Initially, they plan the front part, having decided on the style.
The car entrance, paths, and flower beds are marked on paper. The contours of plantings, collectors, and lighting are also applied.
Requirements for functional zoning
When carrying out functional zoning of a site, the following requirements should be taken into account:
- It is definitely worth considering convenient communication between the zones. Sectors should not be completely isolated from each other.
- If this is a recreation area with a gazebo, you need to create two entrances. This is a requirement for fire safety and practical convenience.
- All areas of the site must be provided with high-quality paved paths.
Front area
Such territory is present on any site. They pay special attention to her, as she is always in sight. Think in advance about the location of drains and collectors into which rainwater will flow.
To decorate the entrance, decorative plants are placed along the fence. They provide a platform for cars to enter and a path leading to the house. They are combined or separated using a flower garden.
Useful ideas
To make plants feel comfortable in such beautiful, original beds and to reap good harvests, you can use some secret little things. However, little things help a lot in caring for the garden and growing your favorite plants:
- It is good to add hydrogel to the soil of vertical beds - it will not dry out quickly, but will retain moisture longer
- It is useful to plant marigolds, nasturtiums and other neighboring flowers next to vegetables, which naturally protect other plants from pests
- If suddenly there are ants in the beds, you can plant a celandine bush directly into the anthill - the ants will leave
- It’s good to put a net on the bottom of the box beds - moles won’t spoil the plantings
- After harvesting vegetables, it’s good to immediately sow green manure in the beds
- mustard – quickly produces green mass, disinfects the soil, gets rid of wireworms, supplies nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium
- rapeseed - structures and loosens the soil, which helps plant roots breathe and increases moisture capacity
- lupine - gives a lot of green mass, enriches the soil with nitrogen, loosens the soil, repels the larvae of the May beetle, mole cricket and other soil pests with its roots
- vetch and oats enrich the soil with nitrogen and potassium
- next to vegetables, you can plant honey plants in the beds (white clover, coltsfoot, lungwort, mint, lemon balm, borage, phacelia), which will attract bees, which will ensure pollination of flowers to increase the yield
- the mole cricket does not like parsley, marigolds, or calendula; by planting them around the perimeter, you can protect your garden
Garden
These components occupy most of the site. Trees are planted on the north side so that other crops have enough sunlight. In a small area among fruit trees and shrubs, you can organize a recreation area.
If space allows, it is better to allocate a separate part for each zone. The modular garden looks great. It will be a wonderful decoration for the site. Shrubs are used to fence it.
When and how to plant
The right time to plant a hedge is autumn. By this time, active biological processes in plants have slowed down, seedlings do not waste energy and nutrients on the growing season and take root well before winter.
If we are talking about planting deciduous shrubs, in the fall you can refuse to buy plants in containers and purchase planting material with an open root system. It is cheaper and will be accepted just as well.
How many plants are needed depends on the recommended planting density. In a single-row hedge, shrubs are planted at intervals of 35–60 cm, trees – 80–120 cm. But it is better to check the specific distance for each crop in the nursery.
If you plan to trim a hedge, buy young plants - 2-3-year-old deciduous seedlings and 3-5-year-old conifers. For free-growing plantings, more mature planting material can be used.
It is better to plant plants in a trench 50–60 cm deep, after first removing the soil from it and mixing it with fertile soil.
When planting, stretch the thread, which will help you arrange the plants in an even line
Outbuildings and recreation area
It is necessary to take care of the arrangement of the economic part, which includes a greenhouse, sheds, a bathhouse, and a garage. Paved paths are suitable for this area. If you can’t hide this part, then it can be easily decorated with different plants.
A comfortable recreation area can be provided on the site. It usually includes a barbecue, a track, and a gazebo. It is installed near the house to provide easy access to the building during feasts and family tea parties.
We will build on climatic conditions
It is important to realize that the available zoning options for a plot of land depend on this aspect. The existing conditions will help you use something and block access to some design elements.
Designers explain that there are these areas for design:
The northwestern variant is characterized by a strong presence of wind with severe winters and too warm summers. In this regard, it will be necessary to provide high-quality snow removal items, high fences and gazebos on an enclosed basis.
The Western type is distinguished by moderate warmth, but heavy precipitation in the form of rain and snow. It is beneficial to use open versions of verandas and fences with a small height. Most often, designers rely on European style for such climatic conditions.
The southeastern version is characterized by summer with frequent droughts and destructive frosts in winter. Significant fences and closed attics will be required; verandas can also be used. It is necessary to take care of access to water based on any part of the site.
The southern version will offer many windy days and short winters, but long and very hot summers. It will be necessary to protect the site from the effects of strong gusts of wind and direct rays of our star.
Hedges
Different plants are often planted at the boundaries of zones. Low hedges look great when the following plants are used: unpretentious boxwood, beautifully flowering birch-leaved spirea. Annuals can be planted for the same purposes.
Flower pots arranged in groups can serve as hedges. This option is suitable for small areas. Shrubs are trimmed to give them the desired shape. Free-growing plants are suitable for high hedges: Japanese spirea shrubs, New England aster, dahlia.
Garden area
They try to separate the area for planting vegetables using natural fences, because the plantings shade the area and protect the soil from drying out. Plant crops also protect from road dust and excessive noise.
Screens and arches for zoning
Plants help make an area beautiful. Screens and arches entwined with perennials will protect the recreation area from the wind and prying eyes. If you plant grapes, you can not only get an excellent hedge, but also reap a good harvest.
Supports are selected according to the size of the plants. Using an arch entwined with flowers, they decorate the central gate to the garden, a gate, and a children's playground.
Remember
- Design the paths. The soil, embankment, paved surface of the path without decoration with flowers will look dull.
- Plant ornamental plants . Various types of plants planted along the aisles will give a well-groomed look and make the area interesting.
- Pay attention to the recreation area. To organize recreation, open terraces are used, podiums, swimming pools, and mini-ponds are made. It is logical to place a barbecue area, a patio, a dining table, a sun lounger with a canopy, hanging chairs and other attributes here.
- Move the utility block away from the house. Outbuildings, structures for livestock, their walking area, compost pit, etc. should be located as far as possible from the house and recreation area.
With proper planning of zones, every meter of your site will be beautiful and functional.
Video: site planning
Dividing territory using color
Visual zoning is carried out by planting plants of a certain shade. Red, yellow and orange flowers give vigor and lift your spirits. The composition is supplemented with coniferous plants.
Yellow, orange and blue crops are suitable for the playground. They will attract the attention of little fidgets. Pastel colors are chosen for the recreation area, which will help you relax and gain strength while admiring the beauty of nature.
Main zones in a classic layout
In modern landscape design, there is a classic layout of functional areas:
- Entry zone.
- Utility buildings sector.
- Leisure area.
- Garden area.
- Garden plot (sometimes garden and vegetable gardens are combined into one zone).
- Children playground.
Each site has its own structural features, methods of construction finishing and functional purpose. When creating any of these territorial zones, it is worth taking into account the requirements for safety and construction.
Zoning by height difference
By raising part of the area, you can get an interesting effect. A practical option would be a wooden deck near the pool. Residents of a country house will find it convenient to relax in a place separated by a raised flower bed or wall.
If you make a small garden lower than the rest of the territory, in which you create an artificial pond, you can create a special microclimate. This zone will be cooler in the heat, plants grow well in a humid place.
Where to begin?
Before starting any work on the site, it is recommended to do an analysis of the area. What's included:
- Analysis of the chemical composition and type of soil and implementation of measures to improve the land. This is important not only for the future harvest, but also to ensure that the buildings on the site have a long period of operation, and the owners are protected from unpleasant surprises. For example, it is recommended to add peat and sand to soil with an excess of clay. And to remove high acidity, add wood ash.
- Determination of groundwater depth. If the water is close to the surface, an additional drainage system is created and wetlands are drained.
- Relief analysis. In places where there is a sharp drop, retaining walls are created.
- Determination of the degree of illumination and cardinal directions. It is important that the windows of the house do not face north. And buildings and tall trees did not shade the yard.
- Wind direction and gust strength. The highest structures are located on the windward side, and they protect the entire area.
In addition, it is recommended to pay attention to the shape of the entire area. Often this is what determines the trajectory of the tracks and the location of different zones.
A reasonably zoned area is a separate, self-sufficient world, where work and leisure, beauty and benefit coexist.
Now you need to plan the territory in detail. And the more accurate the plan, the more successful its implementation will be. It is only at first glance that it seems that a small “hacienda” cannot be turned into a cozy and functional estate. It is the plan on paper that will allow you to see wonderful prospects.
It is important that the atmosphere in this space is conducive to a pleasant pastime and relaxation.
As a rule, the site consists of 4 functional zones:
- Residential building (this also includes the front area);
- Outbuildings;
- Recreation area (play area);
- Garden.
The design of the courtyard of a private house should please, attract and be harmonious at any time of the year.
In percentage terms, the plot is most often divided as follows: 10% for the house, 10% for outbuildings, 10-15% for the recreation area, and the remaining 65-70% of the area is allocated for the garden. And even if you are not going to devote all your free time to the beds, let them take up a little space, and use the rest to create an artificial reservoir (swimming pool or decorative pond).
If you use your creative imagination and devote enough effort and time to transforming your yard, anyone can create a beautiful yard design with your own hands.
Front area and residential building
Each site has its own front (or entrance) area. This is the first thing your guests will see, so you should pay enough attention to its arrangement.
It is important that the exit area is not obscured by a solid fence - your “calling card” should be visible from afar.
The main function is to provide convenient entry and entry. This means there must be a path and a platform for a car. Accurate knowledge of the terrain will make it possible to arrange this area so that there is no stagnation of water. If there is a slope, consider places for drains. And the path itself should be wide enough and comfortable.
The front area is preceded by a gate, immediately behind which there is a path and a platform.
The decor of the front area is planned arbitrarily, but most often spectacular plants are placed along the fence. Depending on the location of the site, someone decides to plant a flowerbed in front of the entrance to the territory. Hedges made from thuja or barberry look very impressive.
The gate and the house are connected by a paved, fairly wide alley, framed by borders of flowers or decorative bushes.
An important nuance: do not plant trees near the car area.
And yet, the “main thing” on the site is the residential building. It will not be possible to move or unfold it, so before you start construction, remember how important it is to “measure seven times and cut only once.”
It happens that bushes are planted on the outside of the site, forming a low hedge from them.
Here are just some of the conditions that must be met:
- There must be a distance of at least 1 meter from the fence to the base;
- All houses on the street are located on one side of the site: on the left or on the right. This is necessary to comply with fire safety standards. Therefore, you will have to position the building in the same way as your neighbors, or build a house in the middle of the plot;
- The nearest house must be at least 6 meters away;
- Check with your land office to find out what distance should be left to power lines, water lines, sewer lines, gas lines and roadways.
The front gardens add special beauty to this most representative area.
It is not recommended to locate a residential building in the depths of the land plot, since such a location will require too long paths and driveways, which means that the usable area will be mercilessly cut down.
The front area should be catchy and impressive, since it is the “face” of your site.
Economic zone
As a rule, the “inhabitants” of this zone are a bathhouse, a garage and a greenhouse. And this plot is located next to the vegetable garden. In this area it is better to give preference to paved paths. After all, no matter how beautiful the lawn or flower beds look, dense paths are a much more practical option. If we are talking about zoning a dacha plot of 6-8 drains in size, then you will have to come to terms with the fact that it is extremely difficult to hide outbuildings in such a small area. This means they need to be properly decorated. For this purpose, climbing plants, spectacular shrubs and ornamental trees are used.
The household parts of the site include a summer shower or bathhouse, sheds, a workshop, a shed with firewood, a compost pit, garbage containers, and sometimes a garage.
When zoning a plot of 15 acres or more, the economic zone is fenced off with trellises, beautifully entwined with clematis, roses or grapes. By the way, grapes can be both decorative and fruit-bearing. Today even frost-resistant species are available.
The economic zone is planned so that it is possible to drive up to it and bring, for example, building materials and fertilizers, without using the front gate.
Relaxation and play area
This area is designed the way you like. No serious restrictions or rules apply in this case. Usually the main inhabitants of this area are a gazebo and a barbecue area. If we are talking about zoning a plot of 15 or 25 acres, then you will certainly find where to put a swing and a tent. If we are planning how to distribute a modest 6 acres, then instead of a gazebo, a table, compact chairs and a small barbecue are quite suitable.
This is a terrace with arranged garden furniture, a patio or a gazebo, an area with a barbecue, a fireplace for a barbecue.
An important condition: the recreation area must be somehow connected to the house, this is very convenient. Since friendly gatherings and family dinners will take place in this area, unobstructed access to the house is simply necessary.
Another point to consider: the resting place should be located as far as possible from the entrance. Then the rest will be complete, and nothing will distract from it. This nuance is especially relevant for areas located within the city.
A cozy, comfortable place for receiving guests, outdoor meals, and picnics.
Finally, in addition to the practical side, do not forget about aesthetics. Try to arrange the recreation area so that you can enjoy the beauty of the plants and the cozy atmosphere of the area as a whole.
Naturally, this area should be away from the main path and especially from parking lots, as well as from the main entrance to the house.
The play area is intended mainly for children, and therefore the main requirement is safety.
Its creation depends entirely on the sportiness of the owners and the size of the plot.
Firstly, this area should be clearly visible so that adults are aware of what the children are doing.
Secondly, the surface of the playing area must be soft. Ideal options are sand or lawn grass.
Thirdly, it is better if the place for children is on the sunny side, but provide some shelter from direct sunlight. Perhaps it will be a gazebo or a small tent.
A compact playing field, workout equipment, parallel bars, horizontal bars - you can install anything you want, if the area allows it.
The area of the playing area depends on the total area of the site. But even on a standard six hundred square meters you can find space for a swing and a small sandbox. If your property is larger, then it makes sense to also install a slide, a table and benches. In some cases, the play area is combined with the pets’ habitat, additionally installing enclosures.
It occupies from 10 to 15% of the site area.
Remember that over time, the need for a play area may disappear, so already at the stage of zoning the territory of a summer cottage it is worth considering what you will install in this place later.
Garden
For many, this is the whole point of a summer cottage. But even if you don’t consider yourself a fan of agricultural work, you can plant currant and raspberry bushes on your plot, which will delight you for many years and require minimal care. Or plant several fruit trees.
In most cases, even decorative plantings are not complete without a couple of fruit trees and a bed of herbs.
Typically, the largest share of the plot is allocated for the garden - up to 75%. Regardless of the size of the garden area, the vegetable garden is given a sunny side and an open area. But it is better to plant tall trees on the north side. Small trees (cherry) can even be placed in the recreation area. As they say, for the good of business.
Most often, the garden and vegetable garden are located near the recreation area. And remember, this part of the country property will also cope with a decorative function. For example, recently they are increasingly making modular gardens with beds of different shapes. It looks unusual and is easy to care for.
You don’t have to be a gardener to introduce these “sacred” elements of country life into the surrounding landscape.
By the way, fruit bushes can also cope well with the role of site dividers if they are located as fences, trellises or pergolas.
A suburban plot is the dream of many residents of megacities. But in order for it to contribute to a good rest, it is important to properly plan the available territory. And no matter how many acres you have at your disposal - 6 or 25 - have no doubt, you can create a cozy and practical paradise on your hacienda.
The flower zone can become the “highlight” of the site.
Paving paths
There is another way to zoning a site. Paving paths not only helps to facilitate movement around the territory, but also ensures the division of the site into functional elements. The central part of the household's transport system is distinguished by its strict outlines.
Garden paths often have winding shapes. They are made from paving slabs, gravel and other materials. Paving sets the mood for residents and guests of the country estate to take a leisurely stroll.
The area near the pool is equipped with porcelain tiles and porcelain stoneware. In the garden or near a picturesque pond, paths are made of decorative gravel. For a children's playground, multi-colored paving made of rubber and plastic tiles is suitable.
Options for creating the right zones of the site
Zoning of the site must be done competently and rationally. The shape of the territory determines the type of division of space into sectors:
- Rectangle. This form is easy to arrange, you can give free rein to your imagination and feel free to experiment with design.
Rectangular plot Source LandshaftPortal.Ru
- Oblong shape. A narrow and long area needs to be visually expanded. To do this, you can plant large trees.
Landscape design of a narrow area Source Roomester.ru
- The territory is in the shape of the letter G. It is better to design the smaller part separately. This could be a recreation area or another functional element.
Non-standard shape of a dacha plot Source colorprofi.ru
There are also plots of irregular shape or oval areas. In each specific case, you need to show imagination and creative imagination, which will help to correctly use all the features of the space.
You can rationally distribute functional zones using several methods of zoning a site. It can be:
- Hedges. Juniper, thuja or boxwood are perfect for creating a green fence. They can be trimmed or left to grow naturally.
A hedge of plants in a summer cottage Source diz-cafe.com
- Partitions. Bamboo, wicker and metal rods look great at any time of the year and are highly decorative. By adjusting the size and transparency of such partitions, it is possible to create separate target zones in the territory.
Partition made of wicker on the site Source Stroy-podskazka.ru
- Gabions. An original way of zoning a site is to use a mesh of reinforcement in which stones are located. This is an inexpensive and convenient solution. Such structures can hide a utility area or compost pit. Also, such a fence holds the soil well on slopes and creates a difference in height.
Gabions in the garden Source stroyfora.ru
- Pergolas and fences. These are wooden elements that do not overload the surrounding space, but create an atmosphere of privacy and romance. Flowering plants and grapes are perfect for decorating the site.
Pergolas in the recreation area Source Design-homes.ru
Photo of site zoning
Terraces or gabions
The production of original gabions is carried out in stages: the formation of mesh boxes from steel wire, filling the boxes with decorative stone. Installation of terrace elements occurs according to the selected drawing diagram.
Using this technique allows you to create original ledges, beautiful transitions between zones and an unusual interior with tiered structures.
Step-by-step work on zoning
Studying clear instructions will allow you to learn how to perform zoning of a site:
- Draw up a plan drawing indicating the entire layout of the site.
- Creating tracks.
- Planting green spaces according to plan.
- Design of a recreation area.
- Separation of the economic and garden area from the rest of the site.
Today, there are other examples of zoning, besides the classic version. You can read them in any landscape design magazine.
Decorative fences, borders and fences
Original and beautiful methods of design, but in practical application the technique is inferior in its effectiveness to other techniques. A wide variety of materials are used for the manufacture of borders:
- Glass bottles.
- Ceramic tile.
- Wooden bars.
- Flower beds.
The choice of material and method of decorative finishing depend on the wishes of the owner of the summer cottage.
