Bubble Diagrams
Bubble diagrams are used to define spaces within the landscape. Each space will receive specific attention during the landscape design process. These spaces are identified from information on the base plan and in the landscape design program. Spaces are frequently defined by the function that will take place in them.
Several bubble diagrams are completed before the best one is selected.
A bubble diagram defines spaces that are identified on the base plan.
At first, bubbles have many shapes and sizes. They roughly correspond to what will eventually be a real space in the landscape, but they are not specific and are without detail. A designer may sketch many different bubble diagrams before the best solution is determined.
Once a bubble diagram is chosen it will continue to be refined. The sizes and shapes will change. Some bubbles may divide into more than one while others will converge.
Example of spaces that need to be located on bubble diagrams
- Dog kennel
- RV parking area
- Firewood storage
Spaces can also define hard-features, specific plant groupings, view areas, or topographical features.
Examples:
- Patio or deck
- Entry or patio garden
- Open area to view of a pond or lake.
In a sustainable design, spaces are especially important to separate areas that require different maintenance levels.
Examples:
- A high maintenance lawn next to a low maintenance shrub bed, woods, or prairie.
- Mulched bed next to lawns or other groundcovers
- Ground cover area
Spaces can also be important because they impact a specific environmental concern.
Examples:
- Lawn areas narrow next to streets and walks
- Trees under power lines
