Sleek, sustainable, and stylish modern landscape design ideas to elevate your Bergen County property
Modern landscape design is all about clean lines, simplicity, and functionality. It’s not just a trend—it’s a long-lasting style that complements contemporary homes and busy lifestyles beautifully. Whether you’re working with a small backyard, a sprawling estate, or a rooftop terrace, modern landscaping can make your outdoor space feel organized, stylish, and inviting.
Here are some of the best modern landscape design ideas to transform your Northern New Jersey property into a sleek, serene retreat.
Bring Your Landscape into the Modern Era
Looking to update your yard with a sleek new look? Call Borst Landscape & Design at (201) 822-9327 or contact us online for a custom landscape design consultation.
What Defines Modern Landscape Design?
Modern landscaping focuses on:
- Minimalist aesthetics
- Geometric shapes and symmetry
- Neutral and natural color palettes
- Low-maintenance, sustainable plants
- Functional outdoor living spaces
Rather than intricate flower beds and ornate features, modern designs favor structured plantings, open spaces, and harmony between hardscape and greenery.
Top Modern Landscape Design Ideas
- Create Strong Lines with Hardscape Features
In modern design, hardscapes take center stage. Use geometric patterns in patios, walkways, and retaining walls. Materials like poured concrete, large-format pavers, and sleek stone slabs add a bold architectural feel to your outdoor space. - Go Green with Structured Plantings
Modern landscapes favor plants with clean lines and architectural shapes—think ornamental grasses, boxwoods, succulents, and evergreens. Arrange plants in neat rows or symmetrical groupings for a polished look. - Mix Natural and Industrial Materials
Pair warm wood with cold metal. Use gravel, concrete, steel, or Corten edging alongside natural elements like cedar decks, river stones, or boulders for a striking contrast. These combinations bring texture and interest without visual clutter. - Add a Water Feature
A simple, rectangular reflecting pool or a sleek wall-mounted waterfall adds a sense of calm and elegance. Keep the design minimal—no ornate fountains or excessive decoration. - Use Lighting as a Design Element
Incorporate low-profile, energy-efficient lighting to enhance the clean lines of your landscape. Use path lights, step lights, and uplighting to highlight architectural features such as plants or walls. Integrated lighting systems can also be controlled via smartphone for a high-tech touch.
Functional Spaces Are Key
Modern landscapes aren’t just about looks—they’re designed to be lived in. Include elements like:
- Fire pits or outdoor fireplaces with built-in seating
- Covered patios or pergolas with clean, simple structures
- Outdoor kitchens or bars with minimalist finishes
- Integrated bench seating or planters that double as furniture
Think of your backyard as an extension of your home’s interior—cohesive, clean, and comfortable.
Embrace Symmetry and Balance
Use symmetry to create a sense of harmony—for example, balance plantings on either side of a walkway or mirror hardscape elements across your yard. Symmetry provides structure and a calming, intentional feel, perfect for modern outdoor spaces.
Keep It Low-Maintenance
Busy homeowners appreciate landscapes that look good with minimal upkeep. Choose drought-resistant or native plants, use gravel or artificial turf instead of high-maintenance lawns, and opt for durable, weather-resistant materials in your hardscape.
Modern design pairs beautifully with sustainable landscaping, which helps reduce your water use and environmental impact.
Use Color Sparingly
Stick to a neutral palette—greys, blacks, whites, and greens—with occasional accents in bold colors like burnt orange or navy. Color can come from containers, cushions, or a single standout plant. The goal is to avoid clutter and let form take the lead.
Vertical and Rooftop Designs
If space is limited, vertical gardens or rooftop landscaping are excellent modern solutions. Living walls, minimalist planter boxes, and rooftop lounges with sleek furniture offer all the luxury of a large yard, without the footprint.
Borst Landscape & Design specializes in creating innovative, space-savvy landscapes that deliver on both style and function.
Modern Landscape Design for Front Yards
Front yards often receive less attention, but a modern front yard can make a striking first impression. Use structured shrubs, gravel beds, and concrete paths to frame your entry. Swap traditional lawns for clean gravel or turf, and use bold planters to highlight the entryway.
Incorporating house numbers, lighting, and mailboxes into the design adds function without sacrificing style.
Design Tip: Layer for Depth
Modern doesn’t mean flat. Layer your space with different textures and levels:
- Combine soft grasses with hard stone
- Use low and tall planters for height variation
- Step or terrace levels to add visual depth on sloped lots
Even a small backyard can feel dynamic and spacious with the right layout.
Work with a Professional Designer for the Ultimate Results
A modern look requires precision and balance. At Borst Landscape & Design, we take the time to understand your goals, your property’s layout, and your personal aesthetic. From 3D design mockups to expert plant selection and high-quality installation, we help homeowners across Bergen County achieve clean, cohesive outdoor spaces.
We’ll create a modern design that complements your architecture and lifestyle, without the stress of doing it all yourself.
Ready to embrace a clean, stylish, and functional landscape design? Call Borst at (201) 822-9327 or reach out online to schedule your consultation today.