Choosing between modern and traditional landscape design is one of the biggest style decisions you’ll make for your Fresno or Clovis property. The right design approach should complement your home’s architecture, reflect your personal taste, and function well in the Central Valley climate.​

What Is Traditional Landscape Design?

Traditional landscape design typically emphasizes symmetry, classic plant choices, and a more formal layout. Curved planting beds, manicured lawns, and layered shrubs arranged in balanced groupings are common features.​

This style often pairs well with older homes, classic architecture, and neighborhoods where mature trees and established landscapes set the tone. In Fresno and Clovis, traditional designs can still be updated with drought-tolerant plant varieties and efficient irrigation to reduce water use without losing that timeless look.​

What Is Modern Landscape Design?

Modern landscape design tends to focus on clean lines, bold shapes, and a minimalist plant palette. Rectilinear patios, geometric planting beds, and the use of materials like concrete, steel, and stone are common elements in modern yards.​

This style often incorporates simple, repeating plant forms and a strong connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces. For Fresno and Clovis homes, modern landscapes may use gravel, pavers, and low-water plants to achieve a sleek, contemporary look that is also highly water-efficient.​

Visual Differences: Lines, Shapes, and Materials

Traditional landscapes commonly feature flowing curves, soft edges, and naturalistic shapes that blend plantings together. Borders may be edged with brick or stone, and materials like natural rock and wood are frequently used to reinforce a classic feel.​

Modern landscapes, by contrast, emphasize straight lines, right angles, and sharper transitions between lawn, hardscape, and planting beds. Large-format pavers, smooth concrete, gravel bands, and minimalist fencing are often combined to create a crisp, graphic appearance.​

Plant Choices: Lush vs. Minimalist

Traditional designs usually favor more abundant plantings, including flowering shrubs, perennials, and seasonal color that create a lush, layered effect. Foundation plantings, hedges, and ornamental trees are used to frame the home and soften hard edges.​

Modern landscapes lean toward fewer plant varieties, often repeating the same grasses, shrubs, or succulents for a bold, unified statement. Structured planting schemes and strong foliage contrasts—such as pairing architectural succulents with ornamental grasses—help achieve a clean, modern aesthetic.​

Maintenance and Water Use in the Central Valley

Traditional landscapes with large lawns and high-maintenance plantings often require more water, pruning, and seasonal care to stay at their best. In Fresno and Clovis, where summers are hot and dry, this can mean higher water bills and more time spent on yard work.​

Modern landscape designs frequently incorporate drought-tolerant plants, reduced lawn areas, and low-maintenance hardscape, which can significantly lower water usage and upkeep. While either style can be adapted for water efficiency, modern designs often lend themselves more naturally to xeriscaping and drip irrigation.​

Blending Modern and Traditional for a Custom Look

Many Fresno and Clovis homeowners prefer a hybrid approach, combining traditional planting with modern hardscape or vice versa. For example, you might pair a classic front lawn and flowering shrubs with a sleek concrete entry path and modern lighting.​

Blending styles allows you to respect your home’s architecture while giving your outdoor spaces a fresh, updated feel. A custom design can borrow the warmth of traditional landscapes and the simplicity of modern layouts to create a unique, cohesive look.​

How Mike’s Evergreen Helps You Choose

Selecting between modern and traditional landscape design—or a mix of both—requires understanding your lifestyle, maintenance preferences, and budget. Mike’s Evergreen has decades of experience delivering custom landscape designs in Fresno County, tailoring each project to the homeowner’s vision and property needs.​

With 3D design capabilities, the team can show you how different styles will look on your property before installation, helping you make confident decisions about layout, materials, and plant selection. Whether you prefer classic curb appeal, a sleek modern yard, or a balanced blend, they can guide you through a design-build process that fits your goals.​

FAQs: Modern vs. Traditional Landscape Design

Which style works best for Fresno and Clovis climates?

  • Both modern and traditional designs can work well when planned with drought-tolerant plants, proper irrigation, and materials suited to Central Valley weather conditions. The key is choosing water-wise features regardless of style.​

Is modern landscape design more expensive than traditional?

  • Costs depend more on materials, scope, and complexity than on style alone. High-end hardscape features can increase costs in either modern or traditional designs, while thoughtful planning can keep projects within budget.​

Can I keep my existing traditional yard and update it with modern elements?

  • Yes. Many homeowners update older landscapes by adding modern hardscape, lighting, or simplified planting plans while preserving mature trees or key traditional features.​

Which style has lower maintenance?

  • Modern landscapes often require less maintenance because they typically use fewer plant varieties, reduced lawn areas, and more hardscape. However, a traditional design can also be made lower maintenance with drought-tolerant plants and smart irrigation.​

How do I know which style fits my home?

  • Consider your home’s architecture, your neighborhood, and how you want to use your outdoor space. A professional designer can help you test different looks through plans and 3D renderings before committing.​

If you’re unsure whether a modern or traditional landscape design is right for your Fresno or Clovis property, partnering with an experienced design-build company can make the decision easier. Mike’s Evergreen can help you explore options, visualize your preferred style, and build a custom outdoor space that fits your home and lifestyle perfectly.