As the name implies, hardscape is the use of harder elements in your landscape design. Features such as concrete, stone, rocks, bricks, pavers, wood and any other hard non-plant material can fall into this category.
The benefits of installing hardscaping into your landscape project are numerous.
Here are some:
- Increases the value of your home.
- Adds beauty to your personal environment.
- An inviting place to relax and entertain.
- Extends the living areas of your home.
- With the addition of an outdoor kitchen, the cooking is brought outside for entertaining and enjoyment
- In some cases may solve drainage problems.
Here are some examples of hardscape:
- Pavers laid for patios, walkways, driveways
- Retaining walls
- Fireplaces and fire pits
- Garden Ponds
- Outdoor Kitchens
- Patio seating
- Decks and deck roofs
- Pergolas
- Pool Decks
At the beginning of every project, we will discuss, determine and understand the desired function of each space in the area to have hardscaping done. This will entail determining patio space and retaining walls and what material is to be used and what features are to be included in the design. This will dictate the size, shape and envisioned aesthetics of each area and element. The yard is significant to the overall function of the outdoor space and how it will be used.
Tips to think about when using hardscape in the design:
- Matching the hardscaping to the exterior of the house.
- Include curves and rounded edges in the design.
- Create a focal point to draw the viewers’ attention.
- Utilize softer features of the landscape.
- Incorporate greenery and shrubs where you can.
- Consider how drainage will be affected.
- Build an outdoor kitchen into the design.
- Consider a fire pit or fireplace in the design.
- Don’t forget fixed hardscaped seating areas.
- Would retaining walls fit into the plan?