Hardscaping Your Way to a Perfect Yard

There is a new kid on the block in the world of landscaping and landscape design. Landscaping is not just about cutting grass, weeding flower beds and getting dirt under your fingernails. Of late, many are turning to hardscape design known as hardscaping.

As the name implies, hardscaping involves the use of “hard” objects and design – inanimate elements made of metal, wood, concrete, stone or anything else that isn’t alive. Hardscaping can take on many forms. You might be thinking of surrounding your property with a fence, but aren’t certain of the design or material to use. Or perhaps you want to create a one-of-a-kind entry way using stone and timber.

Hardscaping and the traditionally thought of landscaping – the grass, plants, flowers etc., must be considered together for there to be a peaceful, headache free integration. Consulting a professional design team is your best bet for a happy ending. The first question to ask is whether to begin with the soft landscaping or the hardscaping in your landscape design. Generally, it’s best to begin with the hardscaping. This way, you reduce the likelihood of injury to the softer elements – the plants, by being stepped on or having that beautiful piece of stone dropped on that equally beautiful and expensive shrubbery.

You may be like many others who prefer a softer, curved line to your hardscaping addition instead of harsh and abrupt straight lines. A curved walkway or path is visually pleasing and can be accented by flowers or shrubs. A water feature may be just the right touch to welcome your friends and guests. Whatever direction you choose, when working with a professional in landscape design, you’re more likely to end up with a balanced and unified plan, crafted to your specifications. If you’re not sure what you want, working with a professional can save untold hours of looking at pictures or making drawings. There’s little to hold you back, so get started now and take your yard from dreams to reality!