In the world of landscaping, the word hardscaping is used to describe fixtures in a yard that are not part of the land. These items are used to enhance the landscape’s usability and visual interest. It is called hardscaping because elements are often made from hard materials. Hardscape is the hard stuff in a yard that is not plants and other items of nature.
What a Hardscape Can Include
- patios
- decks
- walkways
- paths
- pavers
- gravel
- retaining walls
- walls
- fencing
- privacy screens
- sculptures
- fountains
- large planters
- outdoor furniture
- play structures
- driveways
- pool surroundings/decks
- bridges
- large decorative rocks
- lighting features
What are the Benefits of Including Hardscaping in a Yard?
Functionality of the Space
Hardscape elements bring more usefulness to a yard. They can extend the living spaces of the property outside the house structure. One of the most desirable features of homes in the northwest and all across the country are outdoor living spaces that turn good yards into great yards. What could make a yard more magical than the ability to hang out in it with comfort? Having comfortable lounging furniture to relax like it is a second living room, only better because it is surrounded by gorgeous plants and fresh air, instantly makes a yard so much better. How about the ability to enjoy a meal with a nicely designed outdoor dining space or an outdoor kitchen to cook al fresco? What about a space to let your kids run around and get out their energy without having to get in the car and head to the park?
Design Enhancement
Hardscape features add more interest and dimension to a landscape. There is more for the eye to behold and be interested in. Well-designed hardscapes can elevate the design and look of a yard,
Increases Property Value
Having features like outdoor living spaces helps to increase the value of your property. The more desirable and usable the yard is, the more it is seen as an extension of the home and an added benefit of owning the property. This helps to increase the value of the property.
Hardscape Elements Require Less Maintenance
Hardscape features are not ever-growing and changing like natural plants. Most hardscape features require little to no maintenance at all. Some features, like water fountains, require a little more attention, but not as much work as living elements. Hardscaping provides some space to get a “break” from maintaining plants.
Why Hire a Landscape Designer to Help with Your Hardscape?
A landscape designer can help to take hardscape places from ok to amazing. They can help to improve the function and usefulness of a hardscape. They can see a space in your yard with potential wow factor when hardscape elements are incorporated. They can help bring your dream of having an amazing outdoor living and entertaining space to life. They can not only help to bring these spaces into your yard but also make them look like they always belonged there and help them to flow and function seamlessly with the natural beauty in the landscape.
They can help you to see ideas for design and artistry you may not have thought of. Such as creating a curved or pavered walkway instead of something functional that lacks design interest. They are trained to see how both hard elements and natural elements can work together to create one work of art that feels intentional and expertly executed. They can help to create a functional and gorgeous yard to wow both you and your guests.
If you want to take your yard from great to amazing, contact the landscape designers at First Fruits Landscaping. Let’s get started turning your yard into a work of art that not only looks great but also functions well for your lifestyle. We provide landscaping services in Snohomish County and King County.