Hardscape Selection

Hardscapes are the inorganic materials that will help you define and fully utilize your outdoor environment. They also add structural interest and beauty to your space. A few examples of hardscapes are:

• Fire pits or barbecue areas
• Patios, walkways and borders
• Walls, fences and trellises
• Boulders and mulches
• Swimming pools, fountains or spas
• Lighting
• Decorative pots and statues
• Retaining walls and built-in planters.

Hardscape tips

• Think of hardscapes as furniture for your yard
• Define planting zones and walkways with borders and edging
• Anchor your design with strategically placed boulders or stacked stone
• Create intimate conversation areas with seating, trellises or awnings
• Choose permeable surfaces that allow water and air to pass through
• Use a variety of hardscapes and some imagination to make your landscape more inviting in the winter months when fewer plants are in bloom