5 Landscaping Trends that are Here to Stay

December 18, 2025

Landscape trends come and go, but some changes signal a deeper shift in how people want to live outdoors. At Sargent’s, we see these requests every day, not because they are trendy, but because they make outdoor spaces more enjoyable, functional, and resilient. These are the landscape design trends we believe are here to stay.

Expressive Entrances

The front of the home sets the tone for the entire property. Expressive entrances use thoughtful plant choices, hardscaping, lighting, and pathways to create a clear and welcoming sense of arrival. Layered plantings, accent trees, and seasonal interest help guide the eye and reflect the personality of the homeowner.

From our experience, a well-designed entrance does more than boost curb appeal. It creates a daily moment of enjoyment and makes the home feel intentionally cared for, year after year.

2. Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens continue to be one of the most requested landscape features, and for good reason. These spaces extend living areas beyond the walls of the home and encourage people to spend more time outdoors.

Today’s outdoor kitchens often include built-in grills, prep space, storage, and seating that make hosting easy and comfortable. When designed properly, they blend seamlessly into the landscape and are built to withstand Minnesota winters. Outdoor kitchens add both function and lasting value.

3. Fire Features

Fire features create a natural gathering place and instantly make outdoor spaces feel inviting. Fire pits and fireplaces add warmth, ambiance, and the ability to enjoy the outdoors well into cooler evenings and shoulder seasons.

At Sargent’s, we often pair fire features with comfortable seating, lighting, and wind protection to create spaces that feel cozy without being crowded. The desire for warmth and connection outdoors is not a passing trend; it is a lifestyle shift.

4. Low-Maintenance Plantings

Homeowners continue to prioritize landscapes that look beautiful without requiring constant upkeep. This has led to a shift toward well-matched plant selections, thoughtful spacing, and designs that allow plants to thrive naturally rather than needing frequent intervention.

At Sargent’s, we focus on choosing plants that suit the site conditions, including light, soil, and moisture, and arranging them in ways that mature gracefully over time. When plants are well placed from the start, landscapes become easier to care for, more resilient, and more rewarding. This approach is here to stay because it respects both the homeowner’s time and the long-term health of the landscape.

Smart Drainage

Water management has become one of the most important aspects of modern landscape design. Water-wise landscapes focus on proper grading, drainage solutions, rain gardens, permeable surfaces, and plant choices that match site conditions.

These designs help protect homes, prevent erosion, and reduce long-term maintenance issues. Smart drainage and water-conscious planning are essential to protecting homes and creating landscapes that last.

Designing for the Long Term

The best landscapes are not built around short term trends. They are designed with intention, expertise, and an understanding of how people live and how nature behaves.

At Sargent’s, our goal is to create outdoor spaces that feel beautiful, functional, and resilient for years to come. These trends reflect a shift toward landscapes that work harder, feel more personal, and truly enhance everyday life.