What is Hardscape?

Have you been thinking about upgrading your home’s exterior? When you look at design ideas for your outdoor spaces, you are going to see two terms commonly: Landscaping and hardscaping. Most people know what landscaping is—shrubs, trees, flowers, and other plants that are strategically placed around the home. But some people may be confused by the term “hardscape.” What is hardscape? The professionals at Triad Associates are experts in hardscaping, and we are eager to help you learn how it can benefit your property.

What is Considered a Hardscape?

Hardscape refers to any of the non-living elements in your landscape design. This includes patios, walkways, driveways, and other surfaces. It can also include retaining walls, columns, sitting walls, fire pits, water features, and more. Hardscape does not include elements of your actual home or business, such as the siding.

What is the Purpose of Hardscape?

When defining what is hardscape, there are two purposes it can serve: To improve the functionality of your outdoor space or to improve the property’s beauty and curb appeal. Some hardscape elements serve one purpose, while others serve both. For example, a retaining wall can not only help you manage erosion on your property, but it can also provide a beautiful border for your landscape or segments of your property. Thinking through both the look and functionality of all your hardscape elements can help you create a successful design.

Types of Hardscape Features

There are many types of hardscape features that may benefit your property. It is important that you talk through these options with a design professional like those at Triad Associates to get a full understanding of how it can benefit your property or meet your design goals. Some options include:

Driveways

Driveways do fit in the hardscape category. Your driveway can be much more than a functional slab. Stamped and stained concrete options are available that give you a variety of design choices for your driveway. You can also choose from a wide variety of pavers that will give you a more sophisticated design.

Patios

Patios create a cohesive space where you can entertain guests or simply relax at the end of a long day. Patios typically are designed alongside other elements, such as sitting walls and fire pits, but they can also standalone beautifully.

Pathways and Walkways

Give your property beautiful and functional walkways and pathways to make it easier to navigate. Keep your feet clean and dry, and create lovely hardscaping elements at the same time.

Steps

Steps are a major part of a hardscape, they can be used to help you navigate steep areas of your terrain, or they can connect elements, such as a patio and walkway on elevated terrain.

Curbing

Curbing can be used around walkways, patios, or anywhere else you need a hard border to help control terrain or provide a finished element for your hardscaping.

Water Features

Water features can be simple or complex, ranging from small fountains and sprays to large waterfalls alongside rock formations.

Hire Triad Associates’ Hardscape Experts Today!

The right hardscaping design can transform your property. Call the hardscaping experts at Triad Associates today to start exploring the options for your property. Our trusted designers are ready to help you see the full potential of your home or business, helping you to increase its value, as well as your enjoyment of it.