Vegetated Surfaces
Programming the landscape for vegetation requires a synthesis of design intentions with the habitat requirements of a given ecological community. Planted surfaces simultaneously fit into the design program + the corresponding ecosystems niche.
Native short grass turf
(passive surface)
Mulch
(hardwood + mineral)
Surface Water Flows
During a rainfall event, excess water flows being pulled along by gravity and pushed by volume. Surface programming defines the corridors available to drain inundated surfaces + provide buffering filtration to flowing water.
Basalt
(trestle rock)
Ghostwood
(sculptural tree relics)
Functional Surfaces
Designed spaces that provide the surface context for human enjoyment, entertaining + useful access. The surrounding landscape sets the tone for the in every project, especially as urban life beyond the garden gets faster + more complex.
Basalt
(finely crushed gravel)
Cedar
(staves + posts)
Exotic hardwood
(decking + seating)
Granite
(finely crushed gravel)
Limestone
(gravel + patio stone)
Materiality of surfaces
The analysis + application of materials to solve a design requirement in the landscape is what ecotopes calls surface programming.
Surface programming can simultaneously improve numerous variables. For example, proper programming will both allow stormwater infiltration for the immediate benefit of plants + yield necessary drainage for the protection of structures, elements + ground materials.
The thoughtful interplay of delightful people-spaces + amenities alongside fully functional natural elements is the overall goal of surface programming.
