Introduction
Vlogging didn’t just survive the chaos of the last few years—it adapted. While other digital formats stumbled, vlogs managed to stay relevant by evolving fast. Creators leaned into authenticity, built tight-knit audiences, and made their content more than just entertainment. They became guides, companions, real-time storytellers. The genre proved it wasn’t a trend. It was a format built to flex.
Now, in 2024, the terrain is shifting again. Algorithms are evolving, short-form fatigue is creeping in, and AI tools are flooding the creative space. Viewers are no longer just following creators—they’re curating experiences. That’s why vloggers looking to grow this year need to sharpen their focus. It’s not just about being seen. It’s about showing up with clarity, consistency, and a reason to subscribe. What’s happening behind the scenes matters as much as what’s on screen.
Classic landscape design relies on balance. Trimmed hedges, clean lines, and structured layouts give these gardens their defined, intentional feel. The symmetry is deliberate, and the charm lies in order. Think tidy gravel walkways, a central fountain, and neat rows of native plants—all working together to create a space that feels both timeless and grounded.
These designs often borrow from English gardens, Colonial homesites, and old-world Mediterranean courtyards. They’re built to evoke a sense of permanence and tradition, which appeals to homeowners looking for something elegant and enduring. Front yards become statements. Backyards, quiet refuges.
But traditional style doesn’t come without tradeoffs. It takes work to maintain the shape and structure. Hedges need trimming. Paths need cleaning. Fountains require plumbing and upkeep. For those willing to put in the time—or hire someone who will—the payoff is a space that adds long-term value and curb appeal. For everyone else, it might feel more like a project than a pleasure.
Modern landscape design strips away the extra and focuses on what’s essential. Clean lines, uncluttered layouts, and a clear structure define the look. It’s not about being plain — it’s about being intentional. Every element has a role, from the gravel underfoot to the steel planters at the edge of the patio.
Materials matter. Concrete, steel, gravel, and native grasses aren’t just about aesthetics. They’re tough, low-maintenance, and often sourced with sustainability in mind. The palette tends to be muted and matte — greys, blacks, natural greens — with texture doing more work than color.
Water-wise planting is a big piece of the puzzle. Think drought-tolerant plants that thrive with neglect: grasses, succulents, herbs. These landscapes aren’t manicured within an inch of their life. They’re tough enough for dry spells and smartly designed to reduce the need for upkeep.
Another hallmark: seamless integration with the indoors. Large sliding doors, patios that flow from the kitchen, and window views that frame the yard like art. The line between inside and out should feel thin, almost invisible.
Modern design comes with tradeoffs. It’s stylish, efficient, and lets the structure do the talking. But to some, it may feel a little cold or severe. If warmth and softness matter to you, layering in natural wood or subtle lighting helps balance things out. For those who want simplicity with purpose, though, this approach nails it.
Transitional Landscaping: Where Traditional Meets Modern
What Is Transitional Landscaping?
Transitional landscaping blends the clean lines of contemporary design with the warmth and familiarity of traditional garden elements. This style is becoming increasingly popular as homeowners look to create outdoor spaces that feel both timeless and modern.
- Balances innovation with nostalgia
- Appeals to a wider range of tastes and home styles
- Offers flexibility in design and maintenance
Mixing Modern Materials with Classic Planting
The key to transitional landscaping is contrast done with intention. Think concrete or steel alongside lush shrubs and flowering perennials.
Tips to strike the right balance:
- Use natural stone, textured concrete, or corten steel for patios or garden edging
- Offset hard textures with soft, layered plantings like hydrangeas, ornamental grasses, or boxwoods
- Incorporate geometric shapes in layout while keeping plant forms organic and flowing
Harmony in Contrast
Done well, transitional design highlights the best of both worlds. Contrast becomes a feature, not a clash.
- Pair dark metal planters with light-colored blooms
- Place sleek furniture against green, textured backdrops
- Let symmetry in modern structures enhance the irregular beauty of classic plants
Structure First, Then Soften
Every stunning transitional garden starts with a solid framework. Begin by designing structural elements (known as hardscapes), then introduce your softer, living layers.
Start with the fundamentals:
- Pathways, patios, retaining walls, and raised beds come first
- Once the structure is in place, layer in texture via plant varieties, mulch, and garden lighting
- Use repetition and rhythm with planting patterns to unify the space
By designing with both contrast and cohesion in mind, transitional landscaping creates outdoor spaces that feel grounded, fresh, and enduring.
When planning an outdoor space, start by aligning it with your home’s architecture. A sleek, modern house pairs best with clean lines and minimal landscaping, while a cozy craftsman calls for warm woods, layered greenery, and maybe a porch swing that looks like it’s always belonged there. Stick with the style you’ve already got—it makes everything feel more intentional.
Next, consider where you live. Cactus and gravel might thrive in Arizona, but they’ll feel out of place and struggle in a rainy Oregon backyard. Climate should guide your design. Use native or low-maintenance plants that actually want to grow where you are. Materials matter too—wood swells in humidity, metal scorches in full sun.
Be honest about maintenance. Fancy fountains and manicured lawns look great in magazines but need time, tools, and upkeep. If you’d rather spend weekends relaxing than weeding, go low-effort. Think perennial plants, composite decking, and automatic irrigation.
Finally, define how you’ll use the space. Love to host? Set up a grill zone and plenty of seating. Got kids? Leave room to move. Need quiet? Plant a corner with shade trees and drop in a hammock. Function shapes form—design around real life, not just aesthetics.
Zen gardens walk the line between two worlds. On one hand, they embody centuries-old tradition rooted in Japanese culture. On the other, their clean lines, neutral palettes, and minimal layout resonate strongly with the modern appetite for simplicity. That rare overlap is what makes them timeless.
For people looking to unplug from digital noise without going full hermit, Zen gardens offer a calm, curated pause button. You don’t need a sprawling estate—just a deliberate design, a few natural materials, and space to breathe. Whether it’s a tiny city patio or a quiet corner of the yard, adding a Zen-inspired setup can reset your senses with purpose.
If you’re interested in making one yourself, check out our guide on how to build your own peaceful retreat: Creating a Zen Garden: Principles and Design Ideas.
Before you dive into any major changes, get clear on your long-term goals. Are you building a vlogging space that doubles as a studio? Do you want a setup that evolves with your content over the years, or are you testing things out for the short haul? Your decisions will be different depending on where you’re headed.
Also, think about your lifestyle. If you’re the kind of creator who entertains guests often, consider multi-functional spaces. If you’re more into solo shooting and quiet editing sessions, you’ll want a spot with fewer distractions and better acoustics. Garden vlogger? Natural lighting and outdoor access might be non-negotiable. The space should support the life you actually live, not just some ideal version you saw online.
Speaking of inspiration—it’s easy to get swept up by Pinterest boards and dreamy YouTube setups. Use them as a guide, not a blueprint. Your property, your budget, and your day-to-day needs all matter. Focus on what’s actually possible in your space and optimize from there.
Last, know when to DIY and when to bring in a pro. Painting a wall or setting up basic lighting? Go for it. Rewiring your studio or optimizing for sound treatment? Probably worth hiring someone. Save your time and energy for what really moves the needle.
Modern or traditional—either one works if it fits the way you live. The style matters less than the purpose it serves. A clean, minimal patio space can be just as powerful as a lush, layered garden when it’s designed with intention.
The goal is to make the space do what you need it to do. Want a quiet spot to think in the morning? Build that in. Need a flow for gatherings that doesn’t choke movement or conversation? Design it accordingly. Outdoor spaces should match your habits, not just imitate a pretty spread from a magazine.
Design with longevity in mind. Not just materials, but usefulness. Build something you’ll still want to use in five years—not something trendy that wears out its novelty. Be smart, be intentional, and your outdoor space will earn its place in your life.