What is Hardscape Landscape?
Evolution in landscape design has been drastic over the last few years. Landscaping has transformed from just a lawn and flowers to a plant-based art that includes architectural aspects and elements such as glass, metal, concrete and many more.
While hardscape may be a comparatively new form of terminology, the inspiration behind it is hardly new or revolutionary. In fact, nearly all landscaping designs are a combination of plants and some sort of hardscape.
What is a Hardscape?
A hardscape or a hard landscape refers to any aspect of the landscape that is non-organic in nature. This includes structures made from non-living elements such as decks, walkways, pools, patios, wall, and driveways.
A landscape is typically made up of soft scape-trees, shrubs and flowers and a hardscape. The most remarkable landscape designs are those that integrate both hardscape and softscape.
An Overview of Hardscape Landscape Design
Hardscapes are eye-catching features that offer many attractive options. When designing your yard, carefully research your hardscape design in advance. Just as you would research a home addition or remodel. Here are some of the critical factors that you should consider.
Consider the Ambience
Whether your outdoor area is small or large, the appearance, feel, and layout of the entire landscape should be considered. Consider your growth, and future needs. If you don’t take these future need into consideration, you might end up installing hardscape elements that might prevent improvement in the future.
Drainage
Hardscapes and yards can be destroyed when people ignore drainage issues. In fact, drainage affects hardscapes more than all other issues combined. When planning your drainage installations consider putting in a drainage system that arrests run off in an eco-friendly way.
Respect Nature
Professional hardscape designers have a great passion and respect for the environment and seek to emulate nature’s beauty in all their designs. Take into consideration the layout of the land and try to work existing land features like boulders and stream beds into your design elements.
Select Proper Materials for Your Style
Hardscapes can be tranquil or formal, but the finest ones emulate a distinct style. When choosing your ideal style, select two or three materials that complement your home’s interior and exterior. The texture of these elements is very important and should be complimentary for a harmonious environment.
Benefits of a Good Hardscape Design
Curb appeal
Although most homeowners focus on designing a hardscape that emphasises the beauty of the soft scape, the correct integration of soft scape and hardscape principles will result in a stunning landscape with purpose and great use of space. Additionally, a home with an outstanding landscape appeal sells twice as fast as a home without the same attention.
Functionality
Some hardscape elements such as retaining walls and drainage can be used for more than esthetic reasons. For example, a retaining wall can be used next to a sloppy yard to stop erosion. Additionally, an element such as a rock wall can be used to indicate the boundaries of the property as well as indicate privacy from the yard next door.
Finding a Landscape Designer Who Specializes in Hardscape Design
When selecting a hardscape design company, it is important to remember that not all landscape design firms are the same. Review the company’s experience and portfolio, including some of its previous jobs. Hire a team that will get the job done right and on budget.
Beyond Landscaping will partner with you to create the outdoor living space of your dreams.