When you are considering landscape design, usually the first thoughts are of shrubs, trees, and flowers. While these additions definitely add to the appeal of your backyard space, adding hardscape can create the backyard oasis of your dreams. Hardscaping is simply any design element that is not living. Strategically places rocks, walkways, and benches are all considered hardscaping.
Entertaining
A properly designed backyard space will let you entertain regularly. If you like to have family and friends visit, hardscaping can help create an amazing gathering area. Depending on the existing landscape, you can have a fountain, barbecue, an outdoor bar or kitchen, pool, and fire pit or fireplace.
Privacy
A stone wall or fence will provide privacy in your outdoor space. You could also incorporate a pergola or gazebo, to create a secluded spot.
Add beauty to your property
Hardscaping beautifies your backyard area and can increase property values. Not only will you have outdoor space to enjoy, but the view from inside your home will be far more appealing.
Direct traffic
Sidewalks and paths offer walking areas, so your backyard landscaping stays pristine. They keep grass and plants from being trampled, and can create a flow from one section of your yard to another.
Prevent erosion
Landscape design with hardscaping helps balance out any problems with your backyard’s sloping. You can use stone stairs, tiered patios, and even retaining walls to alleviate erosion problems and create a more useful area.
Expand the living area
Outdoor seating, patios, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits will create areas for hanging out or entertaining guests, or a private nook for reading your favorite book.
Reduce maintenance
Landscape designing with more hardscaping means less grass. Concrete and stones do not require watering or cutting. This means that you get to spend less time maintaining the landscape and more time having fun.
Extending your yard’s usability
Outdoor lights, patios, and fire pits will ensure your pool area is still accessible when natural light is at a minimum. In addition, fire pits and fire features can add warmth in cooler temperatures or simply for ambiance!
